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AJ slept, wrapped in my arms, his dark hair spiked every which way, the bulky IV overtaking his tiny arm.

The surgeon had just finished cutting open his little chest, and a large bandage covered the wound.

I kissed my tiny 2-month-old, barely eight pounds, who had just survived open-heart surgery.

AJ is no ordinary baby. He is our miracle baby. He also happens to have Down syndrome.

Down syndrome is not just some random genetic mutation; it is a completely new perspective on life.

Suddenly, small accomplishments are triumphs, "huge" problems seem insignificant, and "normal" takes on a whole new meaning.

AJ, now 20 months old, has changed me. He accessed a part of me that I never even knew existed. His fascination with life is contagious -- it makes me cherish things I used to take for granted. I celebrated when he was able to eat without vomiting, when he finally could play with his toes, and when he lifted his hands and uttered "Mama."

According to statistics, 90 percent of Down syndrome pregnancies are terminated.

As the mother of one of these babies, I can tell you what these parents are missing. Today I have to run to keep up with a vivacious little toddler who commando crawls and chases the dog around the living room.

Stairs are the newest adventure and at every turn of my back, AJ is at them, attempting whole-heartedly to climb to the top.

AJ is just a typical little boy, with his own pace for life. Love radiates from him entirely and reminds me daily of how much God loves me.

When he smiles, he puts his whole little body into it. Hugs are even better!

Nothing beats an AJ morning hug! His pudgy little arms wrap around my neck and a tiny hand gently pats my back as I pat his.

He snuggles his head into my chest and beams, his toothy little grin revealing two new front teeth.

AJ has not only introduced us to another way of life but to new people as well. The families we've met through the Down Syndrome and Family Support Network are amazing! Fellow moms have offered support, advice and encouragement, as well as meals, gifts and -- even more precious -- their time.

We've shared laughter over the antics of our sweet children and shared tears when we struggle with what they must overcome.

Now, we have the opportunity to recognize the triumphs over the challenges and trials that our children with Down syndrome face -- and support this group that provides support and resources for parents.

Come join AJ, our family and other families in the Greensboro area by participating in the fifth annual Buddy Walk. The walk is a celebration of life. Its goal is to promote acceptance and inclusion of people with Down syndrome.

Registration starts at noon today at Bur-Mil Park, and after the walk, at 2 p.m., there will be snacks, music, entertainment and a raffle. Come meet AJ and see what life is really about.

Katie Long lives in Summerfield.