So, why was Gammy's sister described univerally as 'the healthy twin'? According to the Straits Times of Singapore, Gammy has 'no life-threatening heart disease'. Many children with Down's are born with a hole in the heart. Stan went one better with added Atrioventricular Septal Defect (Don't ask). So you could say, when he was born he was 'unhealthy'. But Gammy? He has Down's Syndrome but that doesn't define his health status. OK; many kids with Down's have associated medical issues, but Down's in itself isn't a disease.
This reporting has really got the hairs on the back of my neck standing to attention, because the use of the word 'healthy', even if it is journalese and works its way nicely into headlines, further stigmatises this little lad. Come on world; I thought you were supposed to be on his side?
Rant over. I really shouldn't get so upset. It's not healthy.
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