‘She’s a Wildflower:’ Celebrating World Down Syndrome Day with Kendall’s Story

Kendall is a second grader from the Eastern Panhandle of West Virginia. She is vibrant and independent. She loves dancing, horseback riding, and going to the beach. Kendall is also living with Down syndrome.  

Down syndrome is a condition where an individual has a full or partial extra copy of chromosome 21 detected in their cells. There are three different types of Down syndrome – Trisomy 21, Mosaic, and Translocation. Kendall has Robertsonian Translocation Down syndrome. Each type has health and developmental impacts, but it doesn’t stop kids like Kendall from living unique, independent, and fulfilling lives. 

“She’s a typical kid, just with a little extra something,” said Kendall’s mom, Samantha. “She has proven that she is capable of doing things.” 

People with Down syndrome may share some physical characteristics and symptoms, but they are individuals, and so much more than their condition.  

“She is the definition of a wildflower,” Samantha said. “She does everything to the beat of her own drum. ... Kendall is Kendall, and she will tell you exactly who she is.” 

Kendall takes part in WVU Medicine Speech, Physical, and Occupational Therapy, in Martinsburg. According to Samantha, therapists can feel like a part of the family, and access to care, especially close to home, can make a big difference.  

“The more children have access to, the better opportunity they have to learn and achieve and grow,” Samantha said. “Early intervention is key.” 

For Kendall, part of her therapy includes sessions with Occupational Therapist Amanda Weller on fundamental skills, sensory processing, coordination, and more. Through her work with patients from the Down syndrome community, Amanda says part of spreading awareness is focusing on capability and potential. 

“I am thankful for all the people I have met through working with patients from the Down syndrome community,” she said. “It is important to acknowledge and celebrate all the amazing things they can do.”  

While Down syndrome comes with developmental delays, Kendall is an example of why delay doesn’t have to mean limitation, according to Physical Therapist Kristen McDonald. 

“This strong-willed little girl is an exemplary demonstration of a child's determination and the effect of parent advocacy,” she said. “She is bursting with personality and sassiness. She can do absolutely anything she sets her mind to; running, playing, climbing, dancing. We have worked through play to strengthen her movement patterns and improve confidence in trying new tasks. I am so proud of Kendall for her hard work and success.” 

For therapists and educators, awareness also means working with the population to make sure individuals with Down syndrome are able to be heard, understood, and celebrated.  

“Kendall is a great example of a resilient communicator who has a lot to say and works hard to be able to say it,” Speech Therapist Julia Hetherton said. "Every communicator deserves access to tools, support, and opportunities to share their voice.” 

There may be delays or more work to reach some milestones, but children with Down syndrome have just as much capability to thrive and grow as their peers, benefiting from quality education programs, healthcare services, a positive home environment, and a strong sense of community and inclusion.  

“There’s a difference between equity and equality, and we need to make sure – regardless of the disability  – that all children are given a fair shot at education and every opportunity,” Samantha said.  

World Down Syndrome Day is March 21. It is often celebrated with school and community events, Buddy Walks, and Lots of Socks campaigns – where folks are encouraged to wear brightly colored, mismatched socks to raise awareness for and celebrate those living with Down syndrome.

“It’s the one day out of the year where the entire community can come together to celebrate kids and adults who are able to thrive,” Samantha said. “And I continue to celebrate her 365 days a year.” 

Learn more about Outpatient Therapy Services at WVU Medicine in the Eastern Panhandle.