EveryBuddyIsGold.com is a space to share real stories about life with Down syndrome—stories that celebrate the joy, resilience, and everyday magic of our buddies.

I’m honored to feature the first story from my dear friend and fellow author, Nancy Schwartz, about her wonderful son, Alex pictured with his brother, Sam.

---

The pool metaphors abound. I’m deeply grateful for each day I have with all of my sons. Alex is my third. He was born with Trisomy 21. At age three, he developed epilepsy, and he’s working hard every day to walk and talk. Hypotonia (low muscle tone) is a challenge, but he never gives up.

When Alex was born, I had no idea what life would look like. I worried. I cried. I couldn’t seem to get the story in my mind to match the reality of this baby.
But my community surrounded me with light, love, and hope. And that—hope, love, and light—is what keeps me going.

In the years since, I can say without question: Alex is a blessing, just like my other sons, Josh and Sam.  As Barbara Bowman once said, “A source of joy and pain—like any child.”

Alex loves music and is now in his seventh year of playing the cello. He also loves to swim. The pool gives him freedom. His joy is clear in every squeal, every splash, every lap. I take him often, or his dad, Michael, joins him in the pool. Some of his happiest days are spent swimming alongside his brothers, Josh and Sam.

These activities help Alex maintain seizure control—and they lift his spirit. Just like the rest of us, staying active, sleeping well, and eating healthy keeps Alex balanced and joyful.

I’m endlessly grateful for Alex, Josh, and Sam. My life is blessed beyond words.
Deep gratitude.

You can read more about Alex in my first two books:
📖 Up Not Down Syndrome
📖 Up Bow Down Bow

And in my new children’s picture book, The Main Line Mutt, written with my husband, Michael Schwartz.
Visit us at: www.upnotdownbook.com