President’s Pen

By Kim Porthouse

Hi All. As I write this, our country has been facing multiple weather-related events and devastation such as the shocking floods in Auckland and massive destruction and disruption due to slips particularly around the upper North Island. My heartfelt sympathy goes out to all families affected.

It is important at such times to connect to your support networks; I encourage you all to reach out if you are struggling. It is heart-warming at such times to see how communities come together to support each other, if you are ok but know of others who are in need of help, again reach out and offer what you can, even if it is simply a cup of tea and a listening ear.

Of course, these events come hot on the heels of Covid-19 which of course is still affecting family after family daily. Remember if you are isolating due to Covid, please contact NZDSA (0800 693724), we may be able to offer a helping hand.

When people are facing extraordinary challenges such as recent events, I am also reminded that families all over the country continue to face all the other day to day challenges that come along at times when supporting a loved one with additional needs. Connecting with and supporting families and people with Down syndrome is the core business of NZDSA. More than ever, we want to connect and offer support to face these everyday challenges.

Our resources are more accessible than ever before via the online resources on our website, and of course there are now many more resources available across many more topics and across the lifespan than ever before. If you haven’t visited our website for a while, take a look there may just be something you hare wanting to know about. We also continue to run our 0800 number for those who want to reach out and speak to someone. Regional groups still support families at a local level, are you aware of what is happening in your area? Don’t be afraid to reconnect and get involved with your local group.

At NZDSA we are excited to have received some funding which will help us facilitate regional re-connection post Covid in a few areas as well as chances to learn more regarding the Enabling Good Lives principles and model of disability supports that the Government is committed to implementing over time. Keep an eye out on our Facebook page to learn of these opportunities and others to engage. One opportunity to connect will be on World Down Syndrome Day (WDSD) when NZDSA will once again host the ‘Big Connect”, I hope you will join us. This year’s WDSD theme is “With us not for us” The Big Connect will be held online at 7.00pm on 21 March 2023. Keep an eye on the NZDSA Enews or our Facebook page for the link to join. Lastly, given the events of recent times I would like to share a little quote I recently happened across “Always believe something wonderful is going to happen. Even with all the ups and downs, never take a day for granted, Smile, cherish the little things and remember to hug the ones you really love”.