New Huntingdonshire support group for parents with Downs children

THREE mums who gave birth to babies with Down s Syndrome at Hinchingbrooke Hospital have set up a support group for other families affected by the condition. Helene Bickell, Alison Watson and Tara Mills run the Small Steps group in the Lilac Room at Hunti

THREE mums who gave birth to babies with Down's Syndrome at Hinchingbrooke Hospital have set up a support group for other families affected by the condition.

Helene Bickell, Alison Watson and Tara Mills run the Small Steps group in the Lilac Room at Huntingdon Nursery School every Friday afternoon.

Helene, 37, of Dart Close, St Ives, said: "The team at Hinchingbrooke were absolutely fantastic. We didn't know Sam had Down's until he was born. It was a shock but by no means a disaster. Since that day we, as a family, have had terrific support from Dr Nick Johnson and his team at Hinchingbrooke Hospital. We have met some wonderful new people and really had our eyes opened to the value of life."

Helene met Alison and her two-year-old daughter, Freya, four months ago through Little Stars, a toddlers' group for children with additional needs at Spring Common School. She was introduced to Tara, mum of nine-month-old Alex, by a community nurse six months ago.

Helene added: "We are setting up a support group so that other families can see how wonderful these children are."

Alison, 38, of Claytons Way, Huntingdon, added: "I want people to understand that it is not the end of the world if your baby has Down's Syndrome. I only have to look at our children to realise that. Freya signs all day and tells me what she wants. The amount of love and laughter and fun and uplifting moments we have. I don't think we ever would have had them if Freya didn't have Down's.

"More and more children are being born with Down's Syndrome. For one scary moment it feels like your world has come to an end but it doesn't have to be like that."

INFORMATION: Small Steps is on Fridays from 1-2.30pm.