I watched Shawn and Liz struggle with themselves as well as each other, trying to understand what the doctors had just told them. Maddi has Down Syndrome. It was evident there were struggles and success. They struggled with their own demons and conquered them, so they could focus on the struggle that was presented to them.
When Maddi was born I watched all of those previous struggles kind of melt away. I watch a mom and dad fall in love with their perfect, precious Madilynne. They were aware of the new struggles they were about to embark on and put on their very brave faces. I saw them get so tired because they were staying up constantly monitoring Maddi’s oxygen levels. I recall Liz crying to me about how scared for her daughter she was. I was watching a mother burn more than both ends of the candle consumed with worry and anxiety about her daughter’s health. I watched a father tend to the every need of his wife and baby. I saw him struggle with how he was going to make it all work for his family. I saw him struggling with how to provide for Maddi and all her medical needs. Looking back on it now, both Shawn and Liz struggled with all of these things. I watched as they were devastated by what was medically going on with Madilynne. I saw them reach their breaking point but never went over the edge. They dug even deeper and found the strength to continue on their journey. Sure they cried, yelled, and did everything a parent who loves their child would do. What they never did was give up. Every single time they were faced with a struggle, they found their way through and grew stronger and more beautiful as persons. I have also been witness to them educating themselves. They are continuously looking for great creative ways to help Maddi flourish. Shawn has found his reason in life. It is to be an advocate for Madilynne and also, to educate people about Down Syndrome. Shawn is a student, an entrepreneur, a full time stay at home dad, an advocate, a leader, and a teacher. I could go on and on. Liz is a superwoman. Pregnant while having a toddler with Down Syndrome. Then tending to that newborn, being a mom that works, going to appointments, and everything else that goes along with it. They both perform quite the juggling act while keeping all their focus on their wonderful family. 
I now see a family learning from each other, growing stronger as individuals as well as a family. Madilynne is a thriving 4+ year old full of life. They stood together during all their struggles. They supported each other through the darkest times. I cannot wait to be witness to all the spectacular things in-store for this amazing family. They are a true inspiration to anyone out there that’s having struggles of their own. Know you are not alone and you too will find you inner strength.
-Auntie Moe
Maddi knows how to talk using some signs, and shaking her head yes or no. Her facial expressions are also one of my favorite ways to tell how Maddi is feeling. Her joy is easily seen by her smile and giggle. On the other hand, a scrunched up nose, squinted eyes, and a slightly open mouth means she probably isn’t a big fan of the activity, such as when she tried touching new textures, or when she saw a puppet. The second thing Maddi taught me is not to feel bad for myself. Maddi has been through so much in her short life so far, and she never complains. Doctors appointment after doctors appointment, being hooked to machines, having tests done, and having tubes and wires taped all over her little body. In the 6 months that I worked with Maddi, she had a surgery for her ears, adenoids, and had an emergency open heart surgery. A few days, or week(s) later, Maddi was back at school, smiling and happy. Although she had some days where she was completely worn out by the end, she just kept on doing what Maddi does, never crying, whining, or whimpering. The only way Maddi ever asked for any extra attention was she would get extra snuggly, which I was happy to take advantage of 🙂 Maddi has more strength and courage than most people I know. And she’s only 4. I hope that through this blog or in person, Maddi will continue to teach people who don’t know someone with a disability that even though these people may look a little different or sound a little different, on the inside they are just the same.
Team Mad for Maddi 