Brian and Connor Long

Brian and Connor Long

Alright kids, another treat today as we continue the What are the Odds? Series Today we’re hearing from Brian Long, self-proclaimed Dadvocate.

First however, I must tell you that one of the inspirations for the What are the Odds? series was me thinking about the odds of having a child with Down syndrome, like, at all. Mark Leach recently (the same day I started this series coincidentally) reshared his What are the Odds post from a few years ago. I replied:

SO, I think it’s interesting that the first two folks to roll the dice for this game both rolled a 2,3. Which is the roll for the very question that inspired this series. What are the Odds? Well, 1 in 36, if you want to be technical, but it is interesting, isn’t it? On to the player! Today’s answers come from the dad of the Connor Long. You’ve seen me talk about Connor’s work in Menschen and here is a great video promoting his next film, Learning to Drive. SO, without further ado, this is what Brian has to say to the roll of the dice.

(2,3) Do you have a child with DS? How old were you when your child was born?

Yes. I was 35, but recommend you do it younger. Write that down.

(4,4) What’s your #1 Hot Tip for New parents of a child or baby with Ds

This too will pass; this confusion, the fear of the (currently) unknown. Have faith that over time your child’s unique personality attributes will re-balance what now may feel like a stunning, overwhelming, monolithic diagnosis of potentially negative things. Try to live the life you had planned. Go spend time with a toddler with Ds — they are better than lab puppies and baby seals combined.

(6,1) From this one word prompt either write or send a picture reply: Push.

Don’t be afraid to push. Your child needs challenge and stretching leavened with fierce love, not mushy, coddling and (your) sentimental self-indulgence. *Editorial note from Ms – Brian and Connor and the whole family live to Push. Check this out:

Connor in Training for the Courage Classic

Connor in Training for the Courage Classic

 

 

Cyclists: We want YOU to join our team for the 2015 Courage Classic bike tour!All funds raised by Global’s “Dare to…

Posted by Global Down Syndrome Foundation on Friday, May 1, 2015

(5,3) A lucky day

THAT day. You’ll come to see it.

(3,6) Is life a game of luck or skill?

Yes. The skill is in controlling how you react and respond to things that are out of your control which you perceive to be lucky or unlucky.

Sharing today as a #TBT to only last year – but hey! I like this post. And it makes me think, what am I gonna do this year?

Hmmmm

 

Marcus and Connor Long

Connor on set of Learning to Drive

Connor on set of Learning to Drive