PinnedHeidi Shaw“What do you value?” (I don’t hate that question anymore)What do you value? Do you struggle to put into words what is most important to you? I did. But I just learned the solution.2 min read·Dec 29, 2023--1--1
PinnedHeidi ShawCaring is a Superpower“I’m just checking in. I’m concerned about you and hope you’re okay.”2 min read·Oct 30, 2023--1--1
Heidi ShawTaking critters on their own terms and you on your own termsIn my first job, my boss regularly reminded us to “take the critter on their own terms.” He was referring specifically to chimpanzees.3 min read·Apr 24, 2023--1--1
Heidi ShawI confess: I manipulate my handicapped brotherAt some point in each day, Dean goes into what we jokingly call a “No-storm,” during which he contradicts whatever you say.2 min read·Mar 1, 2023----
Heidi ShawCancer, Down Syndrome, and fun.Because his thinking is simple, Dean is labeled: mongoloid, retarded, cognitively-challenged. But simple thinking can be clear thinking.2 min read·Jan 4, 2023--1--1
Heidi ShawEpiphany: Down Syndrome and “Don’t cry for me”My brother Dean was born with Down Syndrome. Often when I say that by way of introducing a story, people will interject with, “I’m sorry.”3 min read·Oct 11, 2022--1--1
Heidi ShawEpiphany: Down Syndrome and Seeing Beneath the SurfaceDean was born with Down Syndrome and was the best bagger at Shaw’s market. That’s not just what he would tell you. His customers would too.2 min read·Oct 4, 2022----
Heidi ShawEpiphanies: Down Syndrome and Accepting YourselfThe doc told my parents the baby was “mongoloid,” that they didn’t have to see the baby again and that it could be institutionalized.2 min read·Oct 1, 2022--2--2
Heidi ShawEpiphany: Dementia, Down Syndrome, and MusicI’ve learned my most poignant lessons from my brother Dean, who was born with Down Syndrome and now at 54 years suffers with dementia.2 min read·Sep 20, 2022--1--1
Heidi ShawEpiphany: Dementia, Down Syndrome, and MindfulnessI had another epiphany. As usual, my big lesson came from my brother Dean, who was born with Down Syndrome and now suffers with dementia.1 min read·May 13, 2022--1--1