Emma P - Family Connection of South Carolina

Emma P, age 5

Photograph by Kayla Douglass (2023)

Emma “Peke” is a loving, high-energy girl. Music will inspire her to sing and dance. She will sing her favorite YouTube songs or demonstrate her gymnastics and yoga skills when she meets someone new. While physical activities and dancing have become her distinctive traits, her increasing vocabulary in both English and Spanish continue to entertain family and friends.

Diagnosed with Down syndrome in the summer of 2018, Emma’s sonograms also indicated the possibility of a serious heart complication. Fortunately, additional tests over several months alleviated those concerns.

Emma’s parents say she has a positive effect on their family. She influences her siblings to be tolerant and patient. They are more sensitive to the needs of others because of their interaction with Emma. Her parents have become more assertive and proactive on her behalf. Emma’s family would like everyone to know she is an inspiring human being who is achieving her goals at her own pace.

Family Connection of South Carolina provides services and resources to families who have a child with a disability or specialized healthcare need. Since 1990 we have served more than 100,000 families and today our services are needed more than ever. We focus on parent-to-parent support, guidance with navigating the complex healthcare system, and assistance with school meetings and special education plans.