Carrollwood Mom Finds Help in F.R.I.E.N.D.S.

The March of Dimes website lists, “Down syndrome is one of the most common genetic birth defects. It affects about 1 in 800 (about 3,400) babies a year in the United States.”

Carrollwood mom Melanie Link knows first-hand how a special needs child can dramatically change your life… for the better.

“It makes you more patient. You learn to slow down, not go a thousand miles an hour,” explained Link. “Things are going to happen just at a slower pace. You meet the milestones just at a different time.”

Link credits receiving information in the hospital after the birth of her daughter, Hannah, seven and half years ago with providing her a place that offered support and understanding, parents raising special needs children.

F.R.I.E.N.D.S. (Families Raising, Inspiring, Educating & Nuturing Down Syndrome), is a non-profit Down Syndrome support group that meets monthly in Brandon, Brandon Community Center, 502 East Sadie Street.

F.R.I.E.N.D.S provides support and information from the best of resources - other parents who come from all over Tampa Bay.

“I met a lot of new friends that have children with the same special needs,” said Link. “Here you can talk to people in the same boat, get suggestions and help.”

The support group provides monthly guest speakers and respite care for the children during the meetings. They also have two large celebrations – a summer swim bash and a winter holiday party.

The F.R.I.E.N.D.S’ members recently hosted a yard sale and raised a thousand dollars for the non-profit. The money collected went to providing new parent packets and to assist families in being able to attend special seminars and conferences.

Several local businesses offer special activities catered to the needs of the children, including bowling, swimming, and karate.

Hugo Javiar Torres, chief instructor at #1 Martial Arts, 18924 N. Dale Mabry Highway teaches special needs karate each Saturday at 9:00 a.m. The initial cost is $50 which includes a uniform and all subsequent classes are free. His classes will resume in September.

Torres wishes all of his students would try as hard as those in his special needs class.

“It’s a lot of fun for them to learn about martial arts. They learn discipline and respect, get to exercise with kicking and punching and after all while, they test for new belt,” he said. “It’s very enjoyable. To see kids with disabilities trying their best - happy and smiling. That’s the most rewarding part.”

Link asks people to consider one item in particular when interacting with a special needs child:

“They are normal children. They are very loving and are interested in everything – playing and learning. They like to be accepted and play like everyone else.”