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When Addie was born with Down syndrome, her mom was overwhelmed with emotions. But now, she’s sharing a powerful message—one that’s changing how people see life with an extra chromosome.
For National Down Syndrome Awareness Day on March 21, she’s challenging misconceptions and showing the world just how much love an extra chromosome can bring. Set to the song “Ordinary” by Alex Warren, her video has captured hearts with a montage of Addie growing, thriving, and hitting milestones in her own time.
The post, which has racked up 2.6 million views, is filled with joyful moments: Addie rolling over, reaching for her toes—small victories that hold so much meaning for her family.
“You have a million emotions hitting you all at once and you feel so alone thinking, why me, why my baby? But I want to be the advocate for people and families with the diagnosis. A page of honesty and support; what our lives truly look like,” Warner told Newsweek.
A glimpse into life with Down syndrome
On her TikTok account, @alittlextraddie—a clever nod to the extra chromosome—this new mom shares daily moments with her daughter, offering an honest and uplifting look at their journey. Through her videos, she hopes to replace fear with understanding, showing that life with Down syndrome isn’t about limitations—it’s about love, growth, and community.
Understanding the extra chromosome
Babies with Trisomy 21, or Down syndrome, are born with an extra chromosome. While this brings unique challenges, it also brings so many meaningful moments and connections. Leading Down syndrome organizations, like the National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS) and the Global Down Syndrome Foundation, emphasize that every child with Down syndrome is unique—each with their own strengths, abilities, and personality.
Navigating the challenges
Like any parenting journey, raising a child with Down syndrome comes with unique experiences, both joyful and difficult.
- Milestones happen in their own time: Many babies with Down syndrome experience developmental delays, which means parents often wait longer for milestones—but they are also incredibly rewarding when they finally arrive.
- Some require extra medical care: Certain health conditions, like congenital heart defects or low muscle tone, are more common and may require specialist checkups and therapies.
- Advocacy is essential: Families often find themselves working to ensure inclusion in schools, activities, and everyday life.
But just as there are challenges, there are also immeasurable joys.
The Beautiful Parts
- Deep connections: Children with Down syndrome are known for forming incredibly strong emotional bonds with their loved ones.
- A new perspective on life: Many parents say their child has taught them to slow down, appreciate the small moments, and embrace a different, yet deeply fulfilling, journey.
- Every achievement, no matter how small, is a celebration: Watching a child defy expectations and reach milestones—like Addie’s mom shares in her TikToks—brings immense pride and happiness.
Related: Viral Down Syndrome Day ad challenges stereotypes: ‘Assume that I can so maybe I will’
Changing the narrative
The odds of having a baby with Down syndrome are 1 in 640 live births—yet many parents still encounter outdated stereotypes.Thanks to advocates like Addie’s mom, the conversation is shifting. Families are leading the way in redefining what it means to raise a child with Down syndrome—proving that a diagnosis is not a limitation, but simply part of a child’s unique story.
For those looking to learn more or support the Down syndrome community, organizations like NDSS, Global Down Syndrome Foundation, and the National Association for Down Syndrome offer resources, advocacy, and community support.
For Addie’s mom, what once felt like uncertainty has become her greatest joy. And thanks to families like hers, the world is learning that Down syndrome isn’t a limitation—it’s simply a different path, filled with love, resilience, and possibility.
Related: My daughter has Down syndrome, and her siblings are better for it