Down Syndrome: 21st Perspectives
Down Syndrome: 21st Perspectives
Podcast Description
Welcome to Down Syndrome: 21st Perspectives. As mothers of children who have Down Syndrome, Anne and Monique were inspired to create a space to talk authentically about their experiences. Their friend, Leigh, joins them as a cohost and executive producer. The podcast name says it all: A perspective is “a particular way of thinking about or viewing something, influenced by one's experiences and beliefs”. It is our hope that our listeners will be inspired to share their experiences; engage in our community; raise awareness, and create connections and opportunities for advocacy. Join us!
Podcast Insights
Content Themes
The podcast focuses on themes of advocacy, emotional resilience, and community engagement, with episodes that examine navigating education and support systems, parental fears and joys, and the importance of advocacy for individuals with special needs. Noteworthy episodes include discussions on medical services, guardianship complexities, and advocacy strategies that empower families to effect systemic change.

Welcome to Down Syndrome: 21st Perspectives. As mothers of children who have Down Syndrome, Anne and Monique were inspired to create a space to talk authentically about their experiences. Their friend, Leigh, joins them as a cohost and executive producer. The podcast name says it all: A perspective is “a particular way of thinking about or viewing something, influenced by one’s experiences and beliefs”. It is our hope that our listeners will be inspired to share their experiences; engage in our community; raise awareness, and create connections and opportunities for advocacy. Join us!
In this powerful episode of Down Syndrome: 21st Perspectives, hosts Anne Lewis and Leigh Frillici speak with journalist and author Jillian Benfield about her newest book Overwhelmed and Grateful as well as her first book The Gift of the Unexpected. Jillian shares her transformative journey after receiving a prenatal Down syndrome diagnosis for her son from sadness to growth, advocacy, and profound love.In our conversation, Jillian explores the emotional impact of a diagnosis, navigating medical and school systems, and the daily realities of raising a child with Down syndrome. She also dives into the concept of living in the AND—holding both the challenges and the beauty of disability parenting.For anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the Down syndrome community, join us for Jillian’s remarkable story and her reminder that joy and hardship can coexist.

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