In 1947, things were very different. Attitudes, blame cast, and so on. Anne Marie's life did not start out well, I don't think. Later though, she was assigned wonderful caregivers and lived a very good life, much loved by those who cared for her. And by my mom and me.
Some day, I may tell her story. She was severely disabled, could not speak, would never, ever look anyone in the eye, and had many other difficulties. But still had, for the most part, that sunny disposition you will find in people with this disability.
But that wasn't what I was going to write today. I just wanted to note that winter came roaring back last night with howling winds and snow flurries. A little was left this morning, but will soon melt.
Have a good day, my friends.
Oh my, you did get some snow! Luckily it will probably be gone by the time you read this! I'm sorry about your sister. How heartbreaking for your family. Things were different back then for sure.
ReplyDeleteYes, things were different then. Can’t imagine now doctors keeping things from parents. I’m glad your sister had a good life anyway. Such a sweet nickname for Ann Marie.
ReplyDeleteIt is so much more different now people know the reason why and are more tolerant and don't think that the person who has the child did something wrong which was a part of it back then. And the care that they give them and they found ways to teach them that they didn't know back then
ReplyDeleteMy heart melts!! I'm glad you shared this with me.
ReplyDeleteAll those years ago Doctors thought they knew best to not say if anything was amiss. Anne Marie, you would have been so loved, and your name and memory today in Inger's words, tell us that so much.The snow, I read there was a massive fall inland from you.Love those scenes you show today.
ReplyDeleteI am so very sorry! So very sad. Our granddaughter's name is Anne Marie. Your photos are beautiful.
ReplyDeleteI can't imagine the doctors not saying anything. Your post made me think of David.
ReplyDeleteHe was the 4th child of my mom's best friend and he had Down Syndrome born in 1953. He couldn't talk and was quite a handful but he was raised at home and treated just like the other kids. I grew up with him and have always had a soft spot for others like him. David was always so happy.
How strange not to tell your parents right away, but so much has changed about the medical profession.
ReplyDeleteLove,
Janie
In those days doctors didn't give bad news. They wouldn't tell the patient if they were fatally sick, even. Do not telling your parents was very much of the period. I'm glad your sister did eventually have the best life she could. And that she knew she was loved.
ReplyDeleteHow hard that must have been on your family but it is wonderful that your sister got the attention and care she needed.
ReplyDeleteI'm glad that your sister was well taken care of. Thanks for sharing. People with Down Syndrome are special people.
ReplyDeleteSpring is only 4 days away. Soon the snow and cold weather will give way to spring flowers.
Hugs, Julia
Ammi is a beautiful name - We live close to a Camphill community which is a community for adults with Downs Syndrome living and working side by side with able bodied coworkers. Most now live into their 80s. It is wonderful that things have changed from the time when Ammi was born. I'm happy that she had a good life and it's lovely to remember her.
ReplyDeleteI am glad your sister had a good life despite the prevailing attitudes of the time.
ReplyDeleteHi Inger - I'd forgotten about your sister ... so this was sadly interesting to read - we just don't know how she would have felt or known ... I always feel challenged when I hear of these sorts of lives. Thank you for telling us a little more about Anne Marie.
ReplyDeleteGosh - that does look chilly - but I've noticed when the sun is out ... it is definitely warmer ... so Spring is on its way. Cheers - Hilary
Today there are special caring facilities for children with syndromes,yet family never ceases to carry the grief in their hearts.
ReplyDeleteI'm glad that you got more snow but I'm sure that spring will return soon. That was a difficult memory, I imagine, but I hope that the memory of her sunny disposition made you smile.
ReplyDeleteglad your sister received good care and seemed to have a sunny happy side to her.
ReplyDeleteThank you for sharing the beautiful photographs and the memories of your sister.
ReplyDeleteI am pleased that she had a good life and it is always important to remember loved ones.
All the best Jan