Donate Through Mindy’s 3/21 Pledge Page Here!
Hi! We’re the Conner family: Zack & Mindy, Megan, Madison, Kelsey, & Noah. Noah is the youngest of four, and the only boy. He’s got a lot of bosses and a lot of moms, but he handles us all like a champ! He can melt us or madden us in a split second, but every ounce of whatever emotion is backed by 100% love and adoration. He knows how to work
In October of 2023, I (mom) went out of my comfort zone and flew to Austin, TX, to participate in a weekend retreat designed to pamper moms of kiddos with Down syndrome. I jokingly told my friend on the way, “I’m going to wear a t-shirt that says I’m just here for the get-away, not for the Down syndrome conversation.”
What I didn’t know was that weekend would change my perspective and outlook on what Noah’s future might look like. In the Down syndrome community, there is an aggressive push for inclusion (which is grand in theory, but often times poorly executed), and for academic outcomes that fit the mold of societal norms. It’s a heavy and burdensome weight to carry as a momma whose boy doesn’t fit that mold.
That weekend retreat, which ended up being the sorely needed balm to my soul, was beautifully orchestrated by Ruby’s Rainbow, and I haven’t been the same since. Ruby’s Rainbow is an amazing organization that focuses on not only “academic” futures, but any kind of post-secondary opportunity for people with Down syndrome. I left with restored hope that Noah’s future doesn’t have to look like the highly celebrated college career. Ruby’s Rainbow gives scholarships to all kinds of deserving individuals with Down syndrome pursuing their dreams beyond high school.
We are honored for you to support this organization, along with us, through our page created lovingly and with hope for Noah’s future. We’re shooting BIG as first timers, with a goal of $3000 to give to some young man or woman pursuing their dreams. Thank you in advance for supporting Ruby’s Rainbow, and ultimately the families of thousands of amazing individuals who happen to be rocking that extra chromosome!