165. Delivering HOPE w/A New DS Diagnosis (ft. Rick Smith, father + advocate!)

Rick Smith is a father of three (including Noah who has Down syndrome), a blogger, an advocate, and the founder of Hope Story! Like so many of us in the DS community, his child’s diagnosis was delivered with an “I’m so sorry,” followed by the doctor offering anti-depressants to his wife. And now, 11 years later, Rick is on a mission to change what happens in the delivery room by educating medical professionals about what it means to live with Down syndrome through his non-profit, Hope Story. Today we’re chatting about dads who advocate, releasing expectations for ALL of your children, what doctors need to know, and even a few tangents about social media advocacy etiquette (trust us - you’ll relate).

You can join Rick by becoming a Hope Advocate (connect with new parents + doctors in your area) with code THE LUCKY FEW for a FREE Hope Kit that gives you all the tools you need.

Oh and Happy Father’s Day to all you dads out there shouting the worth of your kiddos!