Family is part of who we are and who we become

“Sometimes life can be hard. At times things do go wrong and I am disappointed. I think it is very important to remember the good times and let go of the bad times. I know that I have Down syndrome but that does not stop or defeat me, because in my life I have lots of things going on. I am proud of all the things I can do”.

These words were published by Michael Gannon as part of his book Straight Up – No Sugar, where he wrote about his life, his interests, his family and coping with Down syndrome. His words are full of wisdom and we have been learning from him ever since he started as an intern in the World Meeting of Families 2018’s office. Today, we interviewed Michael to share with you some of his experience of family in this blog.

Michael, tell us a bit about yourself

My name is Michael Gannon and I live in Newbridge with my family. I have one sister and one brother. My brother is married and has a son called Joe. He was born last year and I am his godfather and uncle as well. I live with my parents at the moment, May and Michael Gannon. I was born in 1980 and have been living in Kildare all my life. I have friends who are important to me and have a major impact on me as well. I am also an actor / dancer and have written two books. I also lecture in Tallaght Hospital and UCD on Down syndrome and I am an active member of my local community.

Why did you join World Meeting of Families?

I joined World Meeting of Families because I wanted to celebrate faith with different families. I wanted to bring some hard work and help in whatever job there was there for me.

I hope to work with a team that include me because of what I can bring to it: hard work and a bit of fun and laughter. I can work hard every day. I would like to be busy, share work with different people and be part of this great and special occasion. This is a dream come true to me. Being part of this group of friends is special to me.

Why did you join the Marketing department?

I joined this department because I have a special interest in communications. I had work experience in RTE, where I was a reporter for the afternoon show. There, I interviewed different celebrities, like the Irish rugby team, Brian Cody, who is the Kilkenny manager, and Jedward, who represented Ireland in Eurovision. After that, I decided to go to Maynooth University and take some media studies modules, as part of the inclusive learning initiative.

What is family to you?

For me, family is a very important part of life because family is part of who we are and who we become. Family have a major impact on everybody and everyone. They support us and guide us throughout our life. We celebrate with family: Halloween, Christmas, Easter, St Patrick’s Day and also book launches and everyday life things. For me, family is all about sharing stories and also about helping us along the way on the right path in life. Everyone has a journey in life; there are many battles and different challenges that we all have to overcome. We do not have to do it alone because we are stronger with our family. Family is a special gift of life.

 What can we learn in a family?

They teach me everything. They put my name out there. They help me to be a better person than I am today. They give support, help and guidance. We learn a lot from them. They want us to be more independent. I am stronger because of them.

There are many different types of values that we can learn together. We can talk to each other and listen to each other a bit more and respect each other.

You have given many talks about Down Syndrome, what would you like to say to parents and families about it?

Down syndrome is not a disease. It is a condition. We have an extra chromosome in each cell of our body. I would say to parents, please look at your child and see the person in him. In life there are many challenges that we all face together. With love and support we learn to cope, the body will grow and develop.

My message to parents is to stop looking at Down syndrome and see the person behind it. We are the same as everyone around us. We must live our lives to the full and also follow our dreams.

Please look at your child and see more than Down syndrome. If you do, you will feel very proud when you see all the gifts and talents that we all have.

I think that it is important for everyone to have a say in the world and also to stand up for themselves. And we all should listen to each other more.

What are your hopes for World Meeting of Families?

I hope that everyone will look forward to this special event and celebrate. I hope that families can follow their heart and dreams, give joy and share their gifts and talents with everyone.

Michael Gannon Junior