[Congressional Record Volume 162, Number 44 (Monday, March 21, 2016)]
[House]
[Page H1465]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                        WORLD DOWN SYNDROME DAY

  The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Chair recognizes the gentleman from 
Illinois (Mr. Bost) for 5 minutes.
  Mr. BOST. Mr. Speaker, today is World Down Syndrome Day. This is a 
day that creates a global voice for the rights and inclusion of people 
with Down syndrome.
  According to the National Down Syndrome Society, there are more than 
400,000 Americans living with Down syndrome. This is an issue that hits 
very close to home for me and my family.
  On June 21, 2008, my grandson, Stanley, was born with Down syndrome. 
I have 10 grandchildren and one on the way. Each one is unique and 
special, but let me tell you about Stanley.
  Stanley loves more than you can ever imagine. There is nothing more 
fun than coming in and looking up and seeing Stanley say: Hey, Grandpa 
Mike, I need a hug.
  I can tell you that when families find out that one of their children 
or grandchildren will have Down syndrome, you are worried and you are 
concerned, but it is not something to be afraid of. It is something 
that, yes, they will have special needs, but children and adults with 
Down syndrome can be trained and educated to a level where they can 
become self-supportive, active members of society, and be a great part 
of not only this Nation, but this world.
  As I said earlier, there is no one that loves more, stronger, and so 
unconditionally. Maybe we should take a lesson from them, Mr. Speaker. 
Our family and all families that have members with Down syndrome are 
blessed beyond measure.

                          ____________________