The R Word

I don't know what it's like having a child without Down Syndrome, but I assume being Bunny's mom is just like being any other child's mom. Except for one big difference.  There are two words that make me cringe! Two little words, that upon hearing them can send me into a fit of rage, or break me down in to a sobbing puddle on the floor. I didn't give these words a second thought until we were given Bunny's diagnosis and I would use them in a sentences here or there.

After the diagnosis we were constantly being bombarded by the words, NORMAL, and RETARDED. It's like they were at opposite ends of the spectrum. Black and White, Chocolate and Vanilla, Normal and Retarded.

As  mother to a child with an intellectual disability I am here to tell you this is not acceptable. The R word is hurtful, and derogatory. It's like a knife in my chest every time I hear it. I am dreading the day Bunny comes home from school crying because someone has used the r word to describe him. I'm terrified of the day I have to explain to him what it means. I know that no matter how ready for that day I think I am, nothing I do will be able to erase the pain from his sweet face or the tears from those incredible trusting blue eyes.

My last post about Bunny has brought an onslaught of messages to my inbox, and I hope and I pray that I can continue to inspire and encourage people around us. It has also brought to my attention a campaign that I stand behind 100%.

Spread the Word to End the Word! 
"Our campaign asks people to pledge to stop saying the R-word as a starting point toward creating more accepting attitudes and communities for all people. Language affects attitudes and attitudes affect actions. Pledge today to use respectful, people-first language."

I couldn't have worded it any better. Language affects attitudes and attitudes affect actions! We need to start looking at people with intellectual disabilities as a valuable asset to our communities and our families. Then we need to start educating the world around us. The best way I've found is through action. My Mom always said actions speak louder than words. Lets let our love for Bunny and children like him change our attitudes. As our attitudes change, so will our actions, and then we can change the world!

I took the pledge never to use the R word EVER again! and I pray you'll do the same. The Pledge can be found online at r-word.org, or you can go directly there through the following link. While you're there I hope you'll look around, read the stories, and be inspired.

I want to take the pledge!!

This is Micah. 
He is Talented. He is Funny. He is Kind. He is Handsome. He is Strong.

He is NOT Retarded!