Creating a Vision for a Good Life

Creating a Vision for a Good Life – We envisioned a meaningful and good life, and 38 years on, our son continues to embody that vision each day.

Soon after the birth of her son in 1988, Bridget was determined to create a life for Alex that would follow the same ordinary path as all children. She and Alex’s dad, Garry, wanted him to have a strong sense of belonging in his local neighbourhood. That he would be known and cared about because he contributed to community life. Alex would be educated and play with the local children, work, and eventually live in his own home. Today Alex has his own house and lives his life on his terms. The decisions made over 30 years ago continue to be lived out today. Alex lives a good life because of the vision we held for him; he has a wide circle of friends, and he has choice and control over his daily life and decisions that he considers to be good for him. He has lived in his own home and independent of his parents for over 10 years. He is deeply loved by his family and wide circle of friends. His faith is what defines him.
Bridget understands what it takes for parents to create a vision for the future, plan for that future, and then make it happen. She understands that it is not easy navigating a system that doesn’t always work for you. We have never deviated from our belief in a full and inclusive life. Other parents and allies with the same commitment to inclusion have influenced our lives.
It has been a very intentional journey, and like all of us, it takes time to grow and build a good life, and today is a good place to start if you haven’t already.

Presenter

Bridget Snedden ONZM
Down Syndrome International President
International Disability Alliance Board Member

Biography

Bridget has worked in the disability sector for almost 30 years and is President of Down Syndrome International. She is a Board Member of International Disability Alliance.
Through her work, she shares what she has learned so that other parents can have every opportunity to know what’s possible for their family member with intellectual impairment and, in particular, people with Down syndrome.

Bridget has three adult children, and her eldest son Alex, has Down syndrome. Alex has a good life doing what he decides gives him meaning in his life. He has lived independently of his parents for over a decade alongside neighbours and friends. Bridget and her husband Garry have never deviated from their commitment to inclusion. Other parents and allies with the same commitment to inclusion have influenced their lives. She understands that it is not easy navigating a system that doesn’t always work for you. They have always held a strong vision for Alex. Because of this vision, they have a good life like every other empty nester, but with a difference.

Theme: Creating a vision
Audience: Parents, whānau and professionals