I recently read the article titled “Sammamish woman using aquatics to integrate disabled.” As a mother of a 10-year old son with Down syndrome, I was offended at your comment pertaining to an adult with Down syndrome, stating she “suffers from Down’s syndrome”.

Infants, children, and adults do not suffer from Down syndrome. It is not a disease. It is not communicable. It is not painful. It is the presence of an extra chromosome. This extra chromosomal material effects the development and causes specific characteristics.

One in almost 700 babies in the United States are born with Down syndrome every year. Yes, everyone with Down syndrome experiences cognitive delays, but there is a wide range in these delays. People with Down syndrome can attend school, work, and contribute to society. My son attends general education and has a large group of friends who are “typically developing.” He brings joy and laughter to those around him.

I encourage you to spend some time with children or adults with Down syndrome to understand that this is not something they suffer from – it is a part of who they are.

Cori Ponte, Bellevue