Miracle Monday: Myles’ Message nonprofit connects parents of kids with Down syndrome

A Lee County woman was inspired by her son to create a nonprofit connecting and supporting other parents whose children have Down syndrome.

Maddie Levy’s son Myles is just 3 1/2 years old.

“When I was pregnant, I found out at 12 weeks that Myles would probably have Down syndrome, and I was told by many medical professionals to terminate my pregnancy just because of that,” Levy said. “It was very isolating and lonely. And I do not want another mom to have to feel that way.”

Levy had the idea to create the nonprofit Myles’ Message. It’s brought together Levy and her son with people like Holly Cowser and her son Kai. Dozens of other families got together for a day of fun at the park last weekend.

On Tuesday, the celebration goes global for World Down Syndrome Day.

Levy hopes people will see it as a day to embrace all of our friends with Down syndrome and the ways we’re alike rather than different.

“People with Down syndrome are still people,” Levy said.

People with Down syndrome can get an education and a job. They can have relationships and sometimes live independently.

“I hope Myles reaches his fullest potential,” Levy said. “We don’t know what that’ll be. We’re on this… I’m on this journey with him. And whatever he wants to do, I’ll be right there cheering him on.”

Levy had a simple way for others to help.

“Say hello to them out in public; don’t, you know, be scared to say hello and ask their name… they’re just like everybody else,” Levy said.

Myles’ Message has several ongoing projects. One is to congratulate moms with special gifts, Levy says, because of how often she heard “I’m sorry” instead of “congratulations” before she had Myles.

Visit the nonprofit’s website to learn more about the work done by Myles’ Message.