Parish Health Ministry

Hello, my name is Jeff.
It has been a very exciting month for me. We had the Christmas Ball at school and my friend looked as pretty as a snow princess. I also received a car for Christmas and Birthday present. I am nineteen years old. I can drive almost anywhere without getting lost. After graduation in January, I will start my new job, working in the mailroom at the insurance company. I already have a apartment that is close to where I will work. I am looking forward to cooking dinner and shopping ( sometime with my mom.) I enjoy reading sport magazines and bowling.

When I was born my parents were told I would be mentally retarded and they should not expect too much. They never saw me as being helpless or even hopeless. As a parent they love me for myself.
So many people look at mentally retarded men and women as someone to be pitied, instead of the ability to achieve and do the best they can. Early intervention with school programs and physical and occupational therapy are every helpful and available in every county in Ohio. Assistance is also available through ARC and Family to Family Downs Syndrome groups.

When you see me or one of my friends be sure to say hello. If I don’t say hello back it’s probably because my I Pod is too loud.