Waterloo, Ont. photographer Hilary Gauld-Camilleri has captured beautiful portraits of children and adults with Down syndrome.
The “More to Me” photo series for the Waterloo Regional Down Syndrome Society celebrates how far we have come in shifting societal perceptions of people with the genetic difference. Quotes accompanying each photo also address the stereotypes that still exist.
Canadian Down Syndrome Week begins Friday and runs until Nov. 7.
Jessica’s family: “People with Down syndrome have the ability to be role models. My daughter is an active and loved part of her community and school.” (Photo: Hilary Gauld-Camilleri)
Katie’s family: “We are no more ‘special’ than any other parents who have been blessed with a new baby. Like most parents, we are doing our very best, trying to figure things out as we go, making mistakes along the way, and celebrating the joys our daughter gives to us.” (Photo: Hilary Gauld-Camilleri)
Michael’s family: “I have a great life, but I am not a happy person 24 hours a day as many people think those with Down syndrome are. I have hopes and dreams just like everyone else and hope that one day, I will achieve them all!” (Photo: Hilary Gauld-Camilleri)
Noelle’s family: “We understand that when people look at Noelle, Down syndrome is one of the first things they see, like her blonde hair or her blue eyes, but we want people to know that it is not what defines who she is. She is a unique individual with strong opinions and ideas. She is a fierce self advocate, and Down syndrome is an important part of who she is, but it is only one of many.” (Photo: Hilary Gauld-Camilleri)
Simon’s family: “If I could help the world understand that ‘we’ are people with hopes and dreams, feelings and understand so much more than people may know. We can learn at any age, and that if you really take the time to learn to communicate with us it would be amazing! We spend so much of our time trying to learn to be in your world — it would be wonderful if people could learn to be in ours. It starts with a smile and ends with a hug.” (Photo: Hilary Gauld-Camilleri)
Bandagi’s family: “People with Down syndrome are very capable and should be provided with opportunities to prove their abilities.” (Photo: Hilary Gauld-Camilleri)
Kaleb’s family: “I’ve got big dreams! I am going to grow up to be a positive force in my community.” (Photo: Hilary Gauld-Camilleri)
Samantha’s family: “People with Down syndrome aren’t ALWAYS happy!! They have good and bad days just like every other person!!” (Photo: Hilary Gauld-Camilleri)
See the full collection of portraits on Instagram.
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Comments
Geraldine Dyck says:
Lovely group of kids ! I have a Downs brother who is fit and well at age 61 !
K. Graves says:
Wonderful photos! Thank you!