Gannon (adult with Down syndrome), “I feel my life is blessed”

“I’m an adult with Down’s syndrome. I like people to see me and not my condition. I feel that my life is blessed.” This was said by Michael Gannon, a marketing expert with Down syndrome, who spoke this morning during the panel session on Families and Parish; Supporting Families with Special Needs, at the World Meeting of Families, being held in Dublin. “Most parents are sad and scared when their child is born with this condition,” he said, “My parents and grandparents believed that the Lord would take care of me and give them the strength to do their best for me.” Looking back at the first stages of his life, Gannon recalled that “when I started school, my parents were convinced that I had to be part of my community.” So, he went to Scoil Mhuire, a primary school of the Patrician Brothers and traditional secondary school. “I learned to pray at home. My faith is really important to me. I like to meditate because it helps me to relax. Then, I realize that God is close to me and there to help me.” Gannon is also involved in the parish. “I contribute to my parish and to my community. I am the author of two books. I wanted readers to look at me now that I am doing the same things as anyone else and living life to the full.”