8 minute read
Meet the VanDenBerg Family
A Life Reimagined: Embracing the Journey with Down Syndrome
BY PHOTOS BY A. FERRELL PHOTOGRAPHY
When Jackie VanDenBerg learned she was expecting twins through IVF at age 35, she had no reason to suspect anything would be different this time around. She had already brought a healthy daughter into the world just two years earlier and had opted out of prenatal testing. With hope in her heart and a vision of what life would look like with two more daughters, she anticipated the joy—and chaos—that raising twins would bring. But life, in all its unpredictability, had something unique in store.
In early December, nearly eight weeks before their expected due date, Jackie’s twin daughters made an early entrance via emergency C-section. It was during those first delicate moments after birth that the doctors shared news that would reshape Jackie’s world: one of the twins had Down syndrome.
The diagnosis came without warning. While both Amber and Ashley were premature, it was Amber—quiet and less active even in the womb—whose life journey was destined to follow a different path. Jackie had never even considered the possibility. The shock was immediate, followed by the all-toofamiliar stages of grief: denial, anger, bargaining, depression and ultimately, acceptance. That time in the hospital, though challenging, gave Jackie and her family the space to process what Amber’s diagnosis would mean and to begin understanding that life—though different from what they had imagined—could still be immensely beautiful. And beautiful it has been.
Now 25 years old, Amber is a source of immeasurable joy to her family. While there have been challenges along the way, Jackie is quick to point out that every child brings their own unique trials.”The difference in raising Amber hasn’t been drastic—it has simply been different,” she said. “In many ways, it has been more rewarding.”
The depth of love, the triumphs in small victories and the light that Amber brings into their home have enriched the family’s life in ways they couldn’t have anticipated.
Understanding Down syndrome starts with understanding genetics. People with Down syndrome are born with an extra copy of chromosome 21—making 47 chromosomes instead of the typical 46. This additional genetic material affects the way a person’s body and brain develop. Physically, it can influence the shape of the face and eyes and usually results in shorter stature. Cognitively, individuals may face developmental delays or intellectual disabilities, but they also possess unique strengths, abilities, and personalities. Some may experience health concerns like heart issues or low muscle tone, but many live long, healthy lives.
The early indicators of Amber’s diagnosis weren’t fully understood until after her birth. Jackie had noticed that one twin was more active in utero than the other, but no definitive concerns arose during pregnancy. Looking back, Jackie remembers how she simply didn’t consider the risks associated with her age or IVF. The thought hadn’t crossed her mind.
Today, Amber and Ashley still live at home. Jackie’s two older daughters are married with children of their own, but the twins continue to be an active, vibrant presence in her household.
Though Amber no longer attends school, she’s deeply engaged in a purposeful and fulfilling chapter of her life. She participates in the Donut Club at Compassionate Heart Ministries in Zeeland, Michigan—a day program designed for young adults with moderate disabilities. The program provides a warm, inclusive environment filled with meaningful activities, friendship, and creative expression. It’s a place where Amber thrives.
Amber also works—just not in the traditional sense. Jackie quickly realized that most mainstream workplaces weren’t designed to accommodate Amber’s abilities or empower her potential. Rather than accept this limitation, she turned it into an opportunity. She launched POSSiBiLiTEEs, a business born out of necessity and fueled by purpose. At POSSiBiLiTEEs, individuals with special needs are given more than a job— they’re given a platform to shine. Every screen-printed shirt represents more than a business transaction—it stands for inclusion, dignity, and the belief that everyone deserves a chance to feel valued.
Through POSSiBiLiTEEs, Amber has gained confidence, a sense of importance, and the joy of meaningful employment. The company isn’t just printing shirts—it’s rewriting narratives and celebrating abilities.
Jackie and her family live in Holland, on the west side of Michigan. It’s a place they’ve called home for over 35 years, and Michigan has always been Jackie’s home. Over the years, they’ve found themselves surrounded by a supportive and engaged community. Compassionate Heart Ministries, Special Olympics, and the Hamilton Community Schools Challenger Baseball League have all played a role in providing Amber with spaces where she can grow, play, and belong.
Navigating the world of special needs hasn’t been without its hurdles. Jackie recalls the many professionals who have worked with Amber over the years—speech therapists, occupational therapists, educators, and administrators. Each played an important part in Amber’s development. But as Amber’s mother, Jackie always understood that she was the one who knew her daughter best. These professionals were tools in her toolbox—support systems to guide and supplement the care, education, and encouragement that only a parent could provide. Jackie encourages other parents in similar situations to trust themselves. “Accept professional advice, but never forget that a parent’s intuition and insight are unmatched.”
One of Jackie’s proudest moments as a mother came from an unexpected place—the county fair. Growing up, Jackie had participated in 4-H, showing livestock and learning life lessons in the process. She wanted her daughters to have the same opportunity.
Though they didn’t live on a farm, Jackie made it happen. Her middle daughters raised and showed pigs at the local fair, and Amber came along, watching from the sidelines.
But something stirred in Jackie that week. Why couldn’t Amber show pigs too?
The following year, that question was answered in a resounding and inspiring way. Amber walked into the fairgrounds with two 250-pound hogs and a heart full of determination. As she stepped into the show ring alongside 10 to 15 other kids, the crowd erupted with encouragement. People—many of whom had never met Amber before—called out cheers and support.
That experience wasn’t just a personal victory; it was a community revelation. Amber proved that she was just as capable as anyone else, and the people around her grew in understanding and acceptance.
Jackie believes moments like these are pivotal—not just for Amber, but for society. They shatter misconceptions, broaden perspectives, and remind everyone of the limitless value found in inclusion.
Her involvement in the community has continued to grow. Jackie volunteers regularly at Compassionate Heart Ministries, working with young adults with special needs in a space that fosters joy and belonging.
Her business, POSSiBiLiTEEs, continues to expand, not just as a venture but as a mission to provide employment, build self-worth, and celebrate every individual’s contribution. It’s not simply about t-shirts—it’s about making a statement.
While there’s nothing specific Jackie is seeking for Amber at the moment, she remains an advocate and ally in every sense. She’s eager to share what she’s learned with others. For families new to the West Michigan area, Jackie’s advice is simple but profound: “Get involved. Join the Special Olympics. Reach out to local families who walk a similar path. This community is supportive, well-connected and deeply rooted in compassion,” Jackie said.
Her words to new parents facing a Down syndrome diagnosis are steady and sure.”Life will be different, yes—but it will also be beautiful. Trust your instincts. Believe in your child’s potential. Embrace the professionals around you, but always remember that no one knows your child like you do. There will be joy. There will be pride. And above all, there will be love.”
Amber’s story—and Jackie’s—reminds us that life doesn’t have to follow the script we write for it to be meaningful. Sometimes, the most unexpected chapters are the ones that bring the most growth, connection and fulfillment. What began as a surprise diagnosis evolved into a life filled with purpose, inclusion and powerful impact.
And so, in a home nestled in Holland, Michigan, a mother and daughter continue to write their story—one T-shirt, one friendship and one step into the show ring at a time
