Milla M, age 11

Photograph by Brooke Foster (2023)

Determined, outgoing, and compassionate: these are just a few of the words that describe Milla. She works hard to bring a smile to anyone’s face. Milla finds joy in coloring, playing kickball, dancing, and singing.

Milla was born with a diagnosis of Down syndrome. At one time, she was nonverbal, but now she speaks. She has learned to make her own breakfast and lunch and assists her mom with dinner. She helps her friends with math and shows her family how to be tech savvy on new devices.

Her mom, Amelia says, “Milla is just like any 11-year-old. She loves the things all kids love. An extra chromosome doesn’t change how she loves and enjoys life.” Milla’s family believes she is capable of doing whatever she wants and being whoever she wants to be.

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.