These children...

One day our facilitator told me that they prefer to call the orphanage a children's home, detsky dom. Because it sounds nicer. I hate euphimisms. Why must we try to hide the truth? While the orphanage may be a step up for many of the children, none of these children belong here.

I'll repeat that: none of these children belong here.

The healthy/typical children are damaged by this environment. They do not get any positive physical touch or loving kindness. The sick/disabled children have it even worse. None of the children in Alec's group ever get to go outside. Some of the caregivers really love them, most don't really seem to care all that much. It's no wonder that they don't get healthy and strong. Everything is stacked against them in this room.

When I step in there I see precious little boys! I just want to scoop them up and comfort them. They got stuck in the wrong room and it wasn't their fault. They need therapy so they are institutionalized. They are not getting any therapies and so they won't survive the institution. You see? It's vicious.

Here is Peter. This handsome boy has some heart problems, much like Ralphie did. He needs a family quickly so he can have his medical needs met and so that he can know the love of a mommy and daddy. He's one of about 7 or 8 Reece's Rainbow children that I would have loved to bring home to our family.

Each of us can only do so much, but together we can really make a large impact. Would you consider whether Peter might fit nicely into your family? He is going to be transferred to a mental institution when he turns four. Wouldn't it be nice if he could go to school instead?

More information about Peter and other children with Down Syndrome who are at risk HERE.