I want to share some of my favorite resources.  I am so grateful that central Ohio has so many amazing resources!

1.  The Down Syndrome Association of Central Ohio (DSACO)- http://dsaco.net/  After Oliver was born, I contacted this organization.  They told me they would be sending me a welcome packet.  About a week later I received a package in the mail.  I was in tears when I opened the packet and discovered a book I really wanted, but I didn’t have the money to buy.  They also sent me a binder full of information about Down syndrome and a calendar with it’s  members pictures.   We love attending their events.  So far our favorite has been the Buddy Walk!  This year we will be participating in the Down Syndrome Run!  I am very excited to be running with Ollie!

2.  Bureau of Children with Medical Handicaps (BCMH)-  https://www.odh.ohio.gov/odhprograms/cmh/cwmh/bcmh1.aspx  BCMH is a program through the state that helps with payment for different medical conditions.  Down syndrome is not a diagnosis that is covered, but cardiac conditions are covered.  There is an application that must be completed and a physician is required to fill out a diagnosis.

3.  Help Me Grow- http://www.helpmegrow.ohio.gov/  Help Me Grow is offered through the state/county.  It provides resources to those that are developmentally delayed.  We have a therapist come to our house twice a month to work with Oliver and to show me different activities we can do to help him to reach his milestones.  As Oliver gets older, we will have them come more frequently.  It is completely free and is offered through the age of 3.

4.  Reeve’s Tees- http://www.reevestees.com/  Reeve’s Tees was created by a mama with a baby diagnosed with Down syndrome.  It’s goal is to make people “Get comfortable with difference”.  Their focus is on Down syndrome awareness and advocacy.  They have an amazing team of individuals with Down syndrome that package the orders.  When I opened my first package, I was in tears.  It was so beautifully wrapped and not only was there a card from the owner, but there was a business card from the young lady that packaged my shirt.  I instantly fell in love!