August 8, 2014, remains one of the happiest days of my life. Sharing the news with my husband the very next day—on his birthday—that we were expecting was the most meaningful gift I could have given him. After enduring a heartbreaking miscarriage and a failed IVF treatment, this pregnancy felt nothing short of miraculous. I had always envisioned a large family, with at least three children, and this little embryo had fought valiantly to be here. It was, in every sense, the answer to our prayers.
The pregnancy was not without its complications, but on February 27th, our beautiful son, Gabriel Harlem Harris, entered the world—and we were overcome with joy. Just two days later, that joy was tested. In a room filled with people, the doctor abruptly shared the news: Gabriel had Down syndrome. I remained composed and received the diagnosis with grace, which seemed to catch him off guard. I asked, more rhetorically than anything, “Is there something we can do to reverse it?” He simply replied, “No.” Without missing a beat, I said, “Then tell us what we need to do to give our son the best possible quality of life.” And that has been our mission ever since.
Contrary to what many might believe, Down syndrome is not a tragedy—it is not the worst thing that can happen to a family. In fact, it has brought more love, strength, and perspective than we could have ever imagined. Gabriel is the light of our lives—the heart and soul of our family. His presence has taught us to embrace patience, practice empathy, and celebrate every milestone. What some perceive as limitations are, in reality, distinctive gifts that shape an extraordinary individual.
Now ten years old, Gabriel is a radiant, spirited boy with an infectious smile and a personality that fills every room. Born with Trisomy 21—a chromosomal condition characterized by developmental and physical variations—he continues to defy stereotypes. He is funny, intelligent, compassionate, and deeply loved. Like all children, Gabriel has his preferences, enjoys games, and cherishes time spent with friends and family.
The world is evolving, and so too is the understanding and inclusion of individuals with Down syndrome. Recently, Spain elected Mar Galcerán as the country’s first parliamentarian with Down syndrome—an inspiring milestone. In 2019, Bryan Russell made history by becoming the first person with Down syndrome to run for public office in Peru—and indeed, anywhere in the world. These are not isolated events, but part of a global shift breaking down barriers and redefining what is possible for people with disabilities.
In honoring Gabriel and others like him, we affirm that their lives are not only valuable but profoundly enriching. We celebrate their resilience, their joy, and their undeniable contributions to our families and to society at large.
I’m now a board member of Power Of We! an inclusive non-profit in New York City offering accessible enrichment programs for children of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities. If you feel inclined to donate, you can do so at: Donate — POW - Power Of We!
And I volunteer as the Social Media Manager for the Down Syndrome Diagnostic Network. DSDN is the largest national organization supporting new and expectant parents with a Down syndrome diagnosis: CONTRIBUTE | DSDN
If you’d like to learn more about these organizations visit:
ABOUT DSDN | Down Syndrome Diagnosis Network
