Page 96 - Sanidhya 2025

A Mother’s Embrace:

Love Sees No Syndrome Smt. Chanchal Lata

W/o Sh. Ravi Ranjan (2ic)
RAF Sector
Shiyanshu is now 15.7 years old. Since his birth, nothing
has changed in our love and commitment towards him. I
still vividly remember 7thJanuary 2010, when he blessed Extra-curricular activities and physical exercises
us with his sweetest presence as our first child. After six enhanced Shiyanshu’s muscle strength and coordination.
months, during treatment for digestive issues, doctors Mind body co-ordination exercises, Concentration-
recommended a karyotyping test, which confirmed the building practices, like holding a glass of water
diagnosis of Trisomy 21, commonly known as Down while walking, maintaining eye contact and stair
Syndrome. Additional tests revealed that his blood group climbing/down stair etc, proved highly effective in his
is O-ve. We were further advised to consult the Genetic development.
Clinic at AIIMS, New Delhi, for regular follow-ups.
Integrated schooling played a pivotal role in his
Standing in the queue alongside other parents whose socialization. Interaction with peers helped him develop
children had special needs - such as autism, neurological socially, even if academics progressed very slowly. While
disorders and muscular dystrophy - was a turning point reading and writing remain important, identifying a
in our lives. With no other option, we had to accept child’s interests and strengths is equally necessary to
reality and embrace the special responsibilities that come nurture independence. Special educators, trained in
with raising a child with Down Syndrome. This moment tailored techniques, made a significant difference in
marked the beginning of a challenging yet profoundly helping him learn effectively.
rewarding journey for us as parents.
Parents of special children often feel isolated or
As a mother deeply involved in Shiyanshu’s growth, introverted. However, withdrawing socially is never a
I have witnessed how children with Down Syndrome solution. Accepting reality and working alongside the
possess unique physical and developmental child is the key to ensuring their overall well-being and
characteristics that distinguish them from others. They future success.
require support and guidance in nearly every aspect of
daily life. At present, with continuous scientific physical training
under the mentorship of a renowned para- athletic
From an early age, we focused on teaching him basic coach, Shiyanshu is preparing to participate in National
motor skills like crawling, differentiating between Para-Athletic events this year. His journey towards
small and medium grains to strengthen his muscles
and recognizing colors. Motor activities such as jaw-
strengthening, chewing and tongue exercises were vital
since he struggled with chewing and grinding food.

To address muscle tone issues, Physical therapy, Muscle
strengthening exercises & regular yoga became a daily
routine. Speech therapy is also crucial and going on
& off, as he faces challenges in clear pronunciation.
Professional consultations proved indispensable in his
overall progress.

Regular counseling guided us in teaching him everyday
life skills - buttoning shirts, choosing and wearing
clothes, Zipping, lacing the shoes, using the restroom
and social interaction, especially learning how to
behave around strangers. Although children with Down
Syndrome may be slower learners, they are often sincere
and dedicated when taught consistently.