Gettin' Down with Down Syndrome: Recent Episodes
Beth Parillon
Beth Parillon is a life coach with Ocean Organics Wellness & Coaching will discuss all things as they relate to down syndrome. I will share my personal stories, insights, my successes and my epic failures of raising my daughter with down syndrome. I will help guide you through this new journey of raising your child with down syndrome . Are you ready to get down?
Gabby, my cohost talks all about what it's like to be a senior and a teenager in high school. She talks about her favorite things, what she wants to do after high school and her most favorite things about being a teenager! Are you ready to get down!
What is Camp Barnes and how did it get started? Gabby asks the Senior Director of Special Olympics Delaware all about Camp Barnes and shares her experience with us on this episode. Are you ready to get down!
The University of Delaware hosts a two week summer camp for those who are interested in attending the CLSC two year college program. If you are interested in attending this program please use this link: https://www.cds.udel.edu/clsc/transition-options-for-high-school-students/
If you are interested in attending the CLSC two year college program please use this link:cds.udel.edu/clsc/apply-to-clsc/
Accepting now for Fall 2025 and applications fees waived before Dec. 1!
Are you ready for a vacation! The buddy cruise is the perfect vacation for the whole family! Parents get to meet other families with a child who has down syndrome and listen to guest speakers. The children and young adults with down syndrome get to make new friends and have the time of their life with games, dances, and fun activities. Are you ready to get down!
In this interview I talk with Oliver & Hilda Bernier about their son Emillo. Oliver is a film maker and he made a documentary on his son from birth to first day in elementary school. They discuss the ups and downs of inclusion with school. Are you ready to get down!
Dr. Strang a pediatric lung doctor and sleep apnea specialist from Nemours talks about the signs and symptoms of sleep apnea. While it may be sound or seem cute to hear your child snoring is really the sound of an obstruction in the airway. Dr. Strang discusses the signs, symptoms, and treatments for sleep apnea. Are you ready to get down!
Brittany is a young woman with down syndrome who came up with an amazing idea in 2016 to create baskets of hope for moms with a newborn who has down syndrome. Since then she has given away over 1200 baskets in all 50 states. She receives generous donations both locally and nationally. She was awarded a very prestigious award from L'Oréal cosmetics, who also supports her non-profit business. Listen how her dream to help new mom's feel, cope, and know it's going to be ok, has become a reality for her. Are you ready to get down!
In this episode I interviewed Liz, the founder of Ruby's rainbow in honor of her daughter Ruby who has down syndrome. Ruby's rainbow is an organization that provides scholarships to those who have down syndrome and who want to go to college. This organization gives away thousands of dollars in scholarship money that is all raised through awareness, donations, and fundraising. Are you ready to get down!
A night to shine is a special prom event for those in the special needs community. The event is sponsored by the Tim Tebow foundation. The event is hosted by five hundred churches all over the world simultaneously. The special guests are treated like royalty with dinner, dancing, karaoke, pictures, makeup, shoe shining, and limo rides. In this episode I spoke with a local event coordinator who talks all about the event and what to expect. Are you ready to get down!
In this episode I talk with Sophia's mom Jennifer about her amazing journey from adoption to modeling, becoming an actress and having two books be written about her. Hear how this amazing young girl with down syndrome is becoming a boss babe, handling fame, and starring in the upcoming movie The Hunger Games! Are you ready to get down!
In this episode I spoke with a transition coordinator about the process. If your child is about to graduate from high school this is the episode for you! It's not too late or too early to start planning for your child's future. Are you ready to get down!
In this episode I talk with a friend and fellow mom, Christine. She talks about the transition from high school to living as an adult. She talks about how the school has prepared her and her daughter and the services that are available for our children. This may be a scary time for us as parents but have faith in the process. Are you ready to get down!
Do you know what life coaching is or how it is different from therapy? Are you afraid to ask for help? With coaching there is no judgement, only guidance to help you to get from where you are to where you want to be. In this episode I talk with a fellow life coach about coaching and the benefits of it. Are you ready to get down!
Do you know what infantile Spasms are, what they look like and why they need to be treated immediately? In this episode I speak with a mom who shares her story and how she was able to get a diagnosis after talking with five different doctors. She listened to her mom instincts and never gave up. Are you ready to get down!
In this episode I talk with a mom whose daughter had a new heart surgery technique done to repair a common congenital heart defect with child who have down syndrome. This technique is commonly done in Brazil and now there are three doctors in the USA who are doing this procedure. The procedure is less invasive, requires less blood, and less down time or recovery. Are you ready to get down!
It's that time of the year for RSV, whooping cough, colds, the flu, and COVID. Do you know the signs and symptoms of each? In this episode I spoke with pediatrician Dr. Fox about the signs, symptoms, and treatment for all. Are you ready to get down?
What are you thankful for? How do you show gratitude? Did you know the more you show gratitude, the more you receive? I talk about some things we should all be grateful for. I'm grateful for you my listeners! Are you ready to get down?
This episode is a very personal one for me. This is for anyone going though a difficult time. I talk about worry vs fear, stress vs solutions. Fear can either destroy you or motivate you, which are you going to let it do? Are you ready to get down!
Are you feeling stressed out with all the many challenges of life? In this episode I give you 4 ways to get organized and avoid chaos. Are you ready to get down!
In this episode I talk with dad and movie producer John Luksetich and his daughter, the star of the movie, Maria. He talks about his latest movie Different Eye and the roller coaster ride of making this movie happen. You can watch the movie on Tubi or Amazon prime.
Are you looking for a gift idea? Look no more! Cast Kreations designs and t-shirts has what you are looking for! In this interview I talk with the founder of Cast Kreations Courtney and she talks about her new small business and her inspiration! Are you ready to get down!
Do you know what a special needs trust is or why it is so important to have one? In this episode I talk with Josh from Hope Trust. He gives us all the answers to why you need this, when to set this up, and how Hope Trust can help you! Are you ready to get down!
Are you having a hard time finding a speech therapist? Are you tired of driving to yet another appointment? In this episode hear how Lenora Edwards from Better Speech can make speech therapy easier all from the comfort of your own home! Are you ready to get down!
Are you having a hard time finding a speech therapist? Are you tired of driving to yet another appointment? In this episode hear how Lenora Edwards from Better Speech can make speech therapy easier all from the comfort of your own home! Are you ready to get down!
It's down syndrome awareness month, so let's talk about the history, the name , and the types of down syndrome. Are you ready to get down!
It's down syndrome awareness month, so let's talk about the history, the name , and the types of down syndrome. Are you ready to get down!
Are you looking for some fun LIVE on-line classes and meet new friends. Check out this episode where Mariana Shank talks all about tribe inclusive and the programs they offer. For more information check them out at tribe inclusive.com
Are you looking for some fun LIVE on-line classes and meet new friends. Check out this episode where Mariana Shank talks all about tribe inclusive and the programs they offer. For more information check them out at tribe inclusive.com
Have you heard of the NYC Buddy walk or their amazing video that is played on times square? In this episode we talk with the directors of this amazing event from the NDSS. Listen to how you can have your child featured in the video! Are you ready to get down!
Have you heard of the NYC Buddy walk or their amazing video that is played on times square? In this episode we talk with the directors of this amazing event from the NDSS. Listen to how you can have your child featured in the video! Are you ready to get down!
Can your child ride a bike? In this episode I talk with the lead bike tech, Kent from the iCan bike/iCan shine program. This amazing program will give your child all of the experience to get them on their way to riding a two wheel bike! Are you ready to get donw!
Do you have a local down syndrome chapter? If not then the Down Syndrome Association of Central Texas can help whether you live in Texas or not. This chapter can help you find the resources and information you need. Are you ready to get down!
In this episode I talk with Jena Schultz a pediatric physical therapist and founder of driving development. She talks about fun play, adaptive tools and toys to help with physical therapy. She can be found on Instagram and she has tons of recommendations and on-line learning.
In this episode I talk with Jena Schultz a pediatric physical therapist and founder of driving development. She talks about fun play, adaptive tools and toys to help with physical therapy. She can be found on Instagram and she has tons of recommendations and on-line learning.
It's Rachel Coleman talking with us about sign language and her amazing "Signing Time" learning tools to help your child to communicate when they can't speak. This was such an honor and an amazing interview! Listen to find out how you can help your child and where you can find the tools that Rachel has.
Let's hear it for our 50th episode! It's summer time which means ice cream and all things cooling and refreshing! In this episode I talk with a franchise owner and VP of sales about this ice cream shop and what makes them so unique and special is their employees! They hire those with intellectual disabilities! Are you ready to get down!
When and why should you see an orthodontist. Dr. Johnson tells us all about orthodontist care and what works best. Are you ready to get down!
In this episode Gabby's dentist talks about dental care, when you should first see a dentist, preventative care, and flossing. So much valuable information for special needs children and their typical peers.
In this episode Gabby's dentist talks about dental care, when you should first see a dentist, preventative care, and flossing. So much valuable information for special needs children and their typical peers.
In this weeks episode I spoke with Caleb's mom. He is the youngest person with down syndrome to compete in a triathlon and YES finish! Caleb has won numerous awards and he is still going! His mom gives tips on staying healthy and what he has done to get to be able to compete. Are you ready to get down?
In this episode I talk with Beth Liesenfeld from Parent Friendly OT. She has a podcast called Elevate your advocacy through the IEP. She also has a signature course for parents at www.parentfriendlyot.com. She is an excellent resource for parents in the disability community.
This episode is dedicated to all the moms especially my fellow moms in the disability community. For some inspiration I read chapter 1 of "Don't sweat the small stuff for Moms" by Kristine Carlson.
In this episode I talk with two young ladies about growing up and having a sibling with down syndrome. Hear their stories and similarities and it's no secret how much their sibling is adored and loved!
In this episode I talk with Alicia Hollis the director of community relations. We talk about what KSI is, what they do, what services do they provide and their long history of serving the disability community in Kent and Sussex counties. Are you ready to get down?
In this week's episode I interviewed Gia Holden Ruffin, the founder of Run Saniyah Run. This organization is in memory of her daughter Saniayh who had multiple disabilities and suddenly passed away. She is striving to help families in the disability community to provide them with support, care, friendship, understanding, and services not supported by local agencies and government. If you live in DE and would like more information please call her at 302-827-3380 or go to www.runsaniyahrun.org. She is always looking for volunteers and people to partner with her.
In this episode I talk with Andrew Harbaugh, Program manager for Best Buddies in DE and Lisa Thorp, Co-Advisor at Cape Henlopen Best Buddies. If you live in DE, please join us for the Best Buddies Friendship Walk in-person May 21st at 10 am at Glasgow Park in Newark. For more information on Best Buddies go to www.bestbuddies.org
Have you heard about the best buddies program? In this episode I interview the school's advisors for this wonderful program that promotes inclusion. Are you ready to get down!
It's World Down Syndrome day! In this episode I talk with Colleen Hatcher the Senior manager of community relations for the National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS) and David DeSanctis the Public outreach associate for NDSS and actor who appeared in the film "Where hope grows." Listen to how they are celebrating this beautiful day. David also gives some wonder advice to new and expecting parents.
In this episode my daughter and I interviewed two officers from Best Buddies. Every second Wednesday in March Best Buddies hosts a campaign to spread the word inclusion and to stop using the word retard or retarded. They do this by having high school students sign a banner pledging to include those with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
If you are looking to adopt a child then this is the episode for you. I interviewed a mom in the down syndrome community. She tells her story, her motivation and why she chose to adopt internationally versus domestically. Are you ready to get down?
In loving memory of Jimmy Myrick, I dedicate this episode to you. His mom Sharon talks about the history of this wonderful organization and how she is keeping her son's legacy alive!
What is the Polar Bear Plunge? In this episode I interviewed Jon Buzby the director of Unified Champion Schools. He supports schools to participate in the Special Olympics to include typical peers and those with special needs. Jon talks about the history of the Lewes Polar Bear Plunge, how it got started, where the proceeds go, and so much more! Are you ready to get down!
Setting goals and making healthy lifestyle changes. Gabby and I share our goals for the new year and give some great ideas and suggestions. Are you ready to get down!
In this episode we talk with our family from the Caribbean. We visited them in Antigua and we talk about their Christmas traditions in Antigua and in Dominica. So enjoy the Caribbean accent and may it bring you you warmth!
In this very touching interview with Maria Dellapina, she talks about this disease, how her daughter passed from complications of this disease, the signs and symptoms, and treatment.
In this episode Gabby and I talk about several entrepreneurs with down syndrome. We check out their website and tell you about their products and their specials they are offering. So this year support someone from the down syndrome community!
My co-host Gabby and I talk about the history of Thanksgiving, what it means to us, and what we are thankful for. We also share our secret to gratitude by writing in a journal. What are you grateful for?
Life insurance... why do you need it, how much do you need, and what kind. All of this plus more is what we are talking about. Join me as I talk with my friend Jess Dubois from New York Life Insurance as she answers all these questions and more.
This episode I had the pleasure of talking with Dr. Maria Dellapina founder and creator of Specs4us. She talks about vision care and how it can affect our child's learning. She also tells us how she created Specs4us. You can listen here and check out her website at www.Specs4us.com
In this interview we talk about vision care and the importance of early screening with Dr. Kristen Vincent.
In this episode I interview the famous Grace Key. She has appeared on a commercial for Fab, fit, and fun subscription boxes, she is a spokesperson for Urban Decay makeup and she has her own business Candidly Kind. Hear her story and how she is standing up to being bullied!
I interviewed Troy and his mom Suzanne. Troy is a entrepreneur, pottery maker and he has down syndrome. 100 % of his proceeds are donated! Listen to how Troy got started with pottery or you can check him out on Instagram at Troy Made It.
We were live from the boardwalk buddy walk and we talked with Gabby's cheer friends. Hear what they have to say about their cheer mate, friend, and those with down syndrome.
In this episode I interview entrepreneurs John and his dad Mark from Johns Crazy Socks. John has down syndrome and he has been selling his fun and crazy socks for five years now. He and his dad have generated over 10 million in revenue, they have appeared on numerous TV specials and done guest appearances. Listen to his story and know that your child too can be successful!
In this episode, I interviewed Gabby's para from middle school. She tells us what a para is, the qualifications, and gives us some advice.
In this brief episode, I encourage you to stop comparing you and your child! Our children reach milestones and develop at their own pace. So just be the flower and bloom! Are you ready to get down!
Today my co-host Gabby tells us all about her first day of high school. She tells us about her favorite class and she gives advice to those starting school. Are you ready to get down!
In this episode I interviewed Gail Hamblin a mom, author, and podcaster. She gives us the idea of creating a resume of your child for back to school! So Are you ready to get down!
In this episode I talk with a mom to a son with down syndrome and who works as a transition coordinator. She gives insight on how we can do simple things at home with our kids to help them make their own decisions and become more independent. Are you ready to get down!
In this episode I talk with Austin Carrigg about this often misdiagnosis of ketotic hypoglycemia. She talks about her struggle to get a diagnosis and to have doctors listen to her concerns and to look at the symptoms and not just the down syndrome. Are you ready to get down!
Friends...how many of us have them and how many of them are dependable? Gabby and I discuss what makes a good friend, the qualities and how you can be a good friend. Lets spread the kindness and make some new friends! Are you ready to get down!
In this interview, I talk with two moms who share their stories of their child's diagnosis and treatment of Atlantoaxial Instability or AAI. Are you ready to get down!
Dr. Suken Shah division Chief of Spine and Scoliosis Center and Department of Orthopedics at Nemours Alfred I. Dupont for Children in Wilmington, DE and he is the Professor of Orthopedic Surgery and Pediatrics at Thomas Jefferson University in Philadelphia, PA. Dr. Shah talks about Atlantoaxial Instability or AAI and other Orthopedic issues with children who have down syndrome. Are you Ready to Get Down!
School is out and the kids are home! In this episode I give some suggestions to help keep your kids active and engaged as well as keeping you the parent sane! Are you ready to get down!
In this episode I talk with my guest speaker Christina Pelatti. She is a clinical speech language pathologist and Associate professor in the Department of Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology at Towson University in MD. She answers the common question of why do children with down syndrome have difficulty with speech. She provides great insight , tools, and information on speech and ways to help our children. Are you Ready to Get Down!
Let me help you and share with you my experience with my first IEP. Yes it can be scary, but being prepared is the most important thing you can do and understanding your rights. I also discuss the first years of ECI and kindergarten. Are you Ready To Get Down!
In this episode I talk about what is an NG tube, what is it used for, how long does it stay in place, and how to insert it if it comes out. Please note you can always ask your healthcare provider for assistance.
Is your child having behavior issues? Are they hyper active? Do they have a hard time staying focused, sitting still and paying attention? Do they have tantrums when they don't get their way? If you answered "YES" to any of these questions then you need to listen to this episode. I talk with a parent who discusses all the signs and symptoms and what they are doing for treatment. Are you ready to get down!
In this episode I hosted a discussion with some newer moms and some more seasoned moms with experience dealing with puberty. We discuss our concerns, fears, and what works best for our girls. I hope your are able to find some new ideas to help you along this journey.
In this episode we interview two of Gabby's cousins and we talk about the "R" word. We talk about how we hear people use it and some other words we can use instead. Gabby also tells us how that word makes her feel. Are You Ready to Get Down!
Happy World Down Syndrome Day! Today I interview my 14 year old co-host and she talks about what it is like for her to have down syndrome. She is kind, a great friend, and she gives great hugs and cuddles. So spread the love and Rock Your Socks today! Are You Ready To Get Down!
In this episode I interview several parents and we talk about school during Covid. We talk about what is working , what didn't work, and what changes were made to help make the learning better for their children. We also discuss the use of masks, shields, and drapes.
In the first half of this episode I talk about the anatomy and physiology of atrioventricular canal defect. This defect occurs in about 15-20% of babies born with down syndrome. The second half of the episode I share my story of Gabby's heart surgery and the uncommon complications. So grab your pen and paper for notes and some tissues for my story. Are you ready to get down?
Today we talk with Lauren Gates executive director of the Down Syndrome Association of Delaware and Ann Phillips executive director of Delaware Voices. They provide us with insight to local and national resources. Ann will discuss why you should have Medicaid and should you or should you not apply for Social Security.
Baby Gabby was born nine weeks early and finally came home after 40 days in the hospital. She had duodenal atresia repair on her third day of life. She had a very scary recovery. She came on a heart monitor, an NG tube, and six different medications! I felt like I became a nurse overnight. I also share with you a cute story of why I have a tan baby.
The story of my diagnosis. This is an emotional episode for me, as I was speaking truthfully and from the heart. There is no right or wrong way to feel when you get your diagnosis that your child has down syndrome. So grab your tissues and get ready to "Get Down!"
Welcome Friends! We are excited to have you join us and to "Get Down" with us. We will talk about all things as they relate to down syndrome. This episode is an introduction to the podcast and what we will and will not be discussing. So, Are You Ready to Get Down?