Country Music Star Rory Feek Shares Why Daughter With Down Syndrome Is 'Just Like Any Other Child'
The Story: Singer-songwriter Rory Feek is talking openly about the Down syndrome diagnosis of his daughter, Indiana, and losing his wife shortly after. He spoke with Voices for the Voiceless about learning that Indiana had a disability when the doctor shared he suspected she might have Down Syndrome.
The books and blogs I first read right after Indy was born and the advice I received all seemed to say ‘this child is going to be completely different’ and ‘set your expectations very, very low’ and … that hasn’t been the case at all. She’s incredibly smart and thoughtful. — Rory Feek
Feek’s wife, Joey, was diagnosed with ovarian cancer and died in 2016. But Feek says it’s because of her vision that Indiana lives life like any other child.
“My wife Joey was much smarter than me and she’s the one who put these things in place early on. And I think it’s made all the difference in the world in Indiana’s life so far.”
The Frontlines: Down syndrome is the most common chromosome condition and affects people of all races and economic levels. Support from family and access to resources can make a world of difference in what individuals with Down syndrome can achieve.
- 1 in 700 children born in the U.S. are diagnosed with Down syndrome
- There are three different types of Down syndrome, including trisomy 21 (nondisjunction), translocation and mosaicism
- Life expectancy for people with Down Syndrome has increased dramatically in recent decades – from 25 years old in 1983 to 60 today
Get more on Down syndrome: Sign up for our weekly Down syndrome newsletter.
A Mighty Voice: Our contributor, Tina Szocik, shared her feelings about raising her daughter with Down Syndrome and educating others saying, “Please do inquire about my child. Ask me questions and tell your children it’s OK to do the same. I will be thrilled to answer. And no question is ridiculous; how could I think that when only five years ago I knew nothing and had the same questions as you?” You can submit your first person story, too.
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Other things to know: Knowledge is power when it comes to spreading awareness and increasing opportunities for people with disabilities. Here are some resources to learn more:
- 5 Tips for Parents to Process Their Child’s Down Syndrome Diagnosis
- Down Syndrome Is Normal
- We Are the ‘Lucky Few’ Families of Children With Down Syndrome
More helpful thinking: To learn more about his journey, Feek has a blog and is now publishing his second book about his experiences.
- You can read his blog here
- Get details about his latest book here: “Once Upon a Farm: Lessons on Growing Love, Life, and Hope on a New Frontier”
Header image via Rory Feek’s Instagram
Silvia Pittman is a wife and new mom who is obsessed with all things digital. When she's not chasing after her toddler, she's writing and taking in the Gulf of Mexico views at the beach. She is a first generation immigrant committed to spreading awareness for issues that impact the Latinx community. She is always eager to tell new stories and believes in the unparalleled value of access to information.
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