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Honouring Siblings

Matt and Kate

This cherished picture of my son and daughter was taken over three decades ago. As my children grew and their lives evolved, they boldly charted unique paths. Sometimes they supported their sibling’s decisions and at other times not. Neither ever hesitated to voice concerns when feeling the other was going astray.

Matt took his role as big brother very seriously, erring on the side of caution when it came to what his little sister should do. Not surprisingly, resentment and frustration blossomed on both sides. That was particularly true during the teen and early adult years. I suspect many parents can relate to feeling like a referee.

Kate, a free-spirited and gentle soul has many memories about those turbulent years. Maturity and motherhood has broadened and softened her perspective. She now laughs about tense, funny, and risky situations that are well behind in life’s rear-view mirror. With hurts shared and forgiven, her empathy runs deep.

Love is a four-letter word. And when the love is unconditional, endurance and resilience are the lubricants. As with parental love, sibling love persists through thick and thin, winding through

the river of life. Sometimes the love gushes, swirls, flows gently, retreats or gets stagnant…depending on the changing environment. Yes, gushing typically retreats early in long-term relationships, but the other phrases stay for the long haul.

Travel on life’s river is ever-changing, risky and rewarding. My husband and I stand strong at our son’s side, until the day we can’t. As we step down, our daughter will step up, without hesitation. They’ve worked through their sibling angst and have great respect for each other.

Naturally, there remain a few residual triggers. But isn’t that true for all of us? Fiercely independent, Matt routinely reaches out for input from trusted sources if he feels the need. His sister is someone he consults. But to be clear, he’s seeking her input, support and reassurance, not unsolicited advice. Kate wisely opts not to should on her brother. Witnessing the next generation stepping up warms my heart and shows me ways that I can improve.

I salute all siblings who travel on life’s river together, with their own unique approaches.

Tarnished or not, your love shines through.

Susan Dunnigan

Susan Dunnigan and her son Matt are familiar faces in the CAWS community, and she is a regular contributor to CAWS News.

You can connect with Susan on her website or email Susan@seekingordinary.com

williamssyndrome.ca // what is Willliams syndrome

What is Williams Syndrome?

Williams syndrome is a rare genetic condition that is present at birth. It is caused by a random genetic deletion and can affect anyone. It occurs equally in males and females, all cultures and to birth parents of all ages. Williams syndrome brings medical issues, including sometimes life-threatening cardiovascular disease, developmental delays, social challenges and learning disabilities. At the same time, those with Williams syndrome exhibit striking verbal abilities, highly social personalities and an affinity for music. Williams syndrome is thought to occur in approximately 1 in 10,000 births.

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Williams Syndrome Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Learn more about Williams Syndrome.

What causes Williams syndrome?

Williams syndrome is caused by a  spontaneous genetic deletion. That means it's not caused by anything the parents may have done during pregnancy or at any other time. The deletion in Williams syndrome generally includes a small stretch of 26-28 adjacent genes on chromosome 7, including the elastin gene. Usually, when someone is born with Williams syndrome, he or she is the only member of the extended family that has the condition.  But, when a person with Williams syndrome has a child, there is a 50:50 chance that each child will inherit the condition. Here in Canada, a geneticist will often request that parents are tested to rule out this rare family connection.

Did I do something to cause Williams syndrome in my child?

There is nothing you could have done, or not done, to cause your child to have Williams syndrome. Williams syndrome is typically caused by the spontaneous deletion of 26-28 genes on chromosome #7. Usually, a Williams syndrome diagnosis is the first one in a family, however, a person with Williams syndrome has a 50:50 chance of passing the disorder on to each of his or her children.

Does Williams syndrome have a cure?

Currently, Williams syndrome does not have a cure. There are  treatments (ranging from supportive care to interventions) for many medical complications of Williams syndrome, including the cardiac conditions that are often present. Early intervention, appropriate therapies and educational support optimize your child’s developmental potential and enjoyment of life.

Is there a treatment for Williams syndrome?

Williams syndrome is complex. A team of educated medical doctors and therapists should participate in your care team. Regular monitoring is important to attend to the potential health issues that are associated with the syndrome. For instance, it is not uncommon for individual with Williams syndrome to experience cardiac issues, feeding issues or slow growth as babies. Your geneticist or paediatrician will make referrals to all the relevant specialties. In addition to medical doctors, different therapies such as physiotherapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, music therapy, specialist advice and psychological therapy can help to address some of the additional issues associated with the condition. Evidence shows the earlier intervention starts, the better the future prospects.

My child’s test confirmed Williams syndrome. Now what?

Williams syndrome is associated with a number of health concerns - some of which can be serious. You'll want to have your child evaluated for these typical issues first. For instance, you child should be referred to a cardiologist if they have not already been assessed for cardiac issues. Most children do not experience all the potential problems, nor do they experience them to the same degree.

If you haven't already done so, sign up for the Canadian Association for Williams Syndrome newsletter and reach out to our community on Facebook or connect with your provincial director.

Our family doctor or pediatrician has never had a patient with Williams syndrome – what should we do?

Williams syndrome is quite rare. Many doctors and paediatricians will never encounter a child with WS in their practice. You will find specialists at children's hospitals who have treated other patients with Williams syndrome. Whether to stay with your care provider or not is a very personal decision, but don't underestimate the value of having someone on your team who knows you and your family who is willing to learn with you on this journey.

Is Williams syndrome “genetic”?

Williams syndrome is most often caused by the spontaneous deletion of 26-28 genes on chromosome #7. Rarely, the deletion is either larger or smaller than 26-28 genes (and these patients have what is called an “atypical” Williams syndrome deletion).

Williams syndrome  it a genetic syndrome, but it is not one that is usually passed down from parents.  A Williams syndrome diagnosis is very often the first one in a family. However, a person with Williams syndrome has a 50:50 chance of passing the disorder on to each of his or her children.

Is there a range of severity in Williams syndrome?

There is a wide range of severity in Williams syndrome, but no information exists to help predict where a person will land on that spectrum. Some children have a life-threatening heart condition. Some have no heart issues at all. Some have a low average IQ, while some have greater intellectual disability. Early intervention and ongoing medical supervision can help a child reach their full potential.

What is the life span of someone with Williams syndrome?

No careful studies on life expectancy in Williams syndrome have been done. Many adults live relatively healthy lives into their 60s and 70s. However, there are issues that may limit lifespan such as heart problems, high blood pressure, gastrointestinal problems, and various endocrine problems.

As is true for many individuals with developmental disabilities, people with Williams syndrome are more vulnerable to common illnesses even if they are generally healthy, and are more likely to be injured in accidents. Therefore, the life expectancy of an individual with Williams syndrome may be shorter than the general population by approximately 10-20 years.

Can someone with Williams syndrome have children?

A person with Williams syndrome is biologically capable of having children, but there is a 50:50 chance that any child born of a parent with Williams syndrome will also have Williams syndrome.

What kind of life will my child with Williams syndrome have?

Many people with Williams syndrome live a rich life. The majority of adults with WS master self-help skills and complete academic and/or vocational school, with new programs and education opportunities popping up every year. From fulfilling volunteer work to supervised employment to independent jobs, there are many ways adults with Williams syndrome play an active role in society. Many live with their parents; others live in apartments with full time supervision or part time support and some are able to live on their own.

 

 

Williams Syndrome child with musical insturment

 

As you may have read in our latest newsletter, CAWS has made some exciting changes to our Music Scholarship Program. The scholarship can now be used for anything related to music. This may include, music lessons, buying an instrument, music therapy, or attending a music camp.  It is open to Canadian individuals 6 to 21.  Five scholarships are available. One from each of these five regions: B.C., the Prairies, Ontario, Quebec, and the Atlantic Provinces.

Also, the scholarships will be awarded by a Music Scholarship Committee made up of two volunteers and the Music Scholarship Coordinator. CAWS is looking for these two volunteers for this year’s committee.

If you are interested in volunteering or would like to apply for the scholarship please contact the Music Scholarship Coordinator, Rick Chmilar at chmilarrick@yahoo.ca or (705) 693-5003. Applicants should include pertinent information such as name, address, age etc. as well as a brief outline of the applicant’s musical experiences and goals and a description of what they intend to use the scholarship for. A short audio or video clip ( attachment or link to hosting site) featuring the applicant’s musical talents should also be included. The deadline for applications is April 30.

Please feel free to contact Rick Chmilar (contact info above) if you have any questions or check out CAWS’ Winter newsletter for more details.

CAWS Music Scholarship drum circle

As you may have read in our latest newsletter, CAWS has made some exciting changes to the CAWS Music Scholarship.

Funding now applies to anything music related

You can now apply for a $200 music scholarship that can be used for anything related to music. This may include, music lessons, buying an instrument, music therapy, or attending a music camp.  Five scholarships are available for Williams Syndrome individuals across Canada! One applicant will be chosen from each of these regions: B.C. and the northern territories, the Prairies, Ontario, Quebec, and the Atlantic Provinces. It is open to Canadian individuals 6 to 21.

Music Scholarship committee

The scholarships will be awarded by a Music Scholarship Committee made up of two volunteers and the Music Scholarship Coordinator. CAWS is looking for these two volunteers for this year’s committee. Interested in joining the committee? Let us know.
You can apply for the scholarship by filling out the form on our Music Scholarship page or by emailing the Music Scholarship Coordinator, Applicants should include pertinent information such as name, address and age of applicant, name and address of nominator and a brief outline of the applicant’s musical experiences, goals and a description of what they intend to use the scholarship for. A short audio or video clip ( attachment or link to hosting site) featuring the applicant’s musical talents should also be included.

The deadline for applications is April 30.

Please feel free to contact Rick Chmilar if you have any questions or check out the CAWS Winter newsletter for more details.

williamssyndrome.ca || heart

Meet Alma

My name is Melanie my daughter is an unforgettable little firecracker named Alma. She is an inspiring little go-getter who loves dancing, surprise eggs and having parties with her friends. Alma was born 6 weeks early and weighed 3lb11oz. Right from the beginning, it was obvious that she wasn’t developing like a typical baby.

williamssyndrome.ca // Alma grin

Alma was diagnosed With Williams syndrome

At the age of 5 months, we learned that she had Williams Syndrome. When I first learned about her diagnosis, there was no support group to turn to in Toronto and local resources were limited. Learning your child has some rare thing you’ve never heard of is incredibly hard. While everyone was supportive, I didn’t really have anyone who “got it.” So I made it my mission at that moment to work to ensure no one who hears the words “your child has Williams Syndrome” ever feels alone.

williamssyndrome.ca // Alma Defies labels

We’re stronger together

Alma is now in senior kindy class with her typical peers with support in the classroom. She is learning new things every day and continually surprises us with her tenacity, determination and her joie de vive. Advocacy used to feel like a full time job, but things have gotten easier. I know there are a lot of new challenges ahead, but right now we’re lucky to have the time to enjoy the here and now.

williamssyndrome.ca // Alma Special Olympics

Go go go

There was a time when I wondered what she would be able to do. Would she have the same kind of childhood that her brother has? Or that I had. While there have been some bumps in the road, for the most part, at 5, Alma has a pretty regular life. She takes swimming, ballet, belly-dancing and is a keen participant in Special Olympics Active Start. She is valued and cared for and might just be the cutest kid I know (tied with her brother of course).

williamssyndrome.ca // CAWS conference child care

Why CAWS matters

Knowing there is a network of parents and professionals in Canada who are always there to answer questions, lend support and offer advice is invaluable. From services and support, to a sense of community and advocacy research and more, the association has made a big difference for our family and I hope by lending a hand, I can do the same for another. Thanks to our generous donors, we are working to create even more connections, opportunities and information for parents, caregivers and Williams syndrome individuals.

Donate Now

PS:

When Alma was a baby, a friend created this lovely video of our family. Enjoy!

Interesting Is Everywhere – “Alma” from Sugino Studio on Vimeo.

WINTER 2018

In this edition, you’ll find details on the changes to the music scholarship program, a heartfelt tribute to Evan Dew, a review on a new book about managing behavioural challenges and the incredible letter from a mom to her daughter included below.

Want to read more?

Download


To my daughter, whose brother needs a little more attention

Remember when I said “I wish I could split myself down the middle”, so I could be with you and your brother at the same time? I meant it with all my heart. 

But unfortunately, I don’t possess that ability. It’s ok to get frustrated, sad, put out and even angry. Honestly, sometimes I feel all those things too. I may pause or take a little linger to meet your wants and needs and I am sorry for that. 

You may not understand all of what I write, but I promise someday you will. You are a gift. Mommy and Daddy were so lucky when you arrived. You are our first. This is your title to hold always. There has been and will be moments when you won’t feel it, but baby girl know it! Always know you are loved. 

We were lucky again when your brother came along, a little boy to be loved by all. Little did we know he would flip our world upside down and teach us all how to look at the world differently. 

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Do you want to do something extraordinary?

We’re always looking for volunteers to help us serve the Williams syndrome community in Canada. Our entire organization runs thanks to the help of committed people, just like you.

Your skills can make a difference

With your help, we can run more walks, create more informational events, welcome more new families, create valuable resources and better support research and advocacy.

From a few hours at a local walk, to event planning, to becoming a provincial director, volunteering at the national level or even taking on a behind the scenes roll, like grant writing, fundraising, PR and more, if you have skills to share, we’d love your help.

Get in touch today

If you want to be part of our extraordinary team, reach out to volunteer now!

MAKE A REAL DIFFERENCE FOR SOMEONE LIVING A RARE LIFE