A photographer seems to have a unique eye and they can often bring out something through pictures that shows the joy, love and beauty in all people. That is the case with Julie Willson, who has a unique ability to take pictures of children with Down syndrome and when she does, you will not believe the results!
Her sister, Dina, was born with Down syndrome and many people saw it as a disability, but she knew better. She realized that her sister was a beautiful person on the outside as well as on the inside. After Dina passed away 4 years ago, she started to take pictures of children with Down syndrome to show how special they truly are.
The photographer, Julie Willson had a sister with Down syndrome. She considers her sister to be the best thing that could ever have happened to their family.
Dina passed away from congestive heart failure 4 years ago. This is a common problem in individuals with Down syndrome
An extra chromosome causes Down syndrome and it is a genetic order that can affect anyone. Although there is no cure for Down syndrome, medical advances have made it possible for individuals with a genetic disorder to live longer, healthier and happier lives.
When Dina was born, she had a heart condition and was not expected to live long. She was able to live to twice her life expectancy thanks to the love and support of her family.
Julie gives credit to her parents for the fact that Dina lived a full and happy life.
Dina was described as having a personality that was “sweet, yet stubborn.” Willson says that she was able to love unconditionally and that she didn’t worry excessively.
Because of her close relationship with Dina, Willson was to help others to have an appreciation for those with Down syndrome. She also wants to help them to see their unique personalities, and she does so through her photography.
She wants parents to learn not to fear Down syndrome, although it does have its challenges. Having a child with Down syndrome will not make the life of the family any worse.
She also wants the world to know that individuals who have Down syndrome have as much to offer as anyone else.
It is her hope that the pictures she takes show the world that children with Down syndrome have much to give.
Not only do these pictures show the beauty of children with Down syndrome, there is much more behind them.
Willson hopes to bring about awareness of the needs of individuals with Down syndrome so that additional resources become available to help meet their needs.
(Images: Facebook / JulyD Photography)
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