Category

Dear Future

Our Dear Future letters are powerful, personal messages written from the perspective of people with Down syndrome, their families, and those who love them. Each letter speaks directly to a “future” someone — a teacher, a doctor, a parent, a sibling, an employer — offering insight, challenging assumptions, and celebrating the value of every life. Together, they form an honest, moving and uplifting collection that inspires inclusion, understanding, and respect. Whether you’re a professional, a parent, a friend, or simply curious, these letters will open your heart and mind to what’s truly possible.

Mother with baby holding the baby close to her face with love
Dear future employer

A powerful letter from a mother to her sons’ future employer, urging businesses to see beyond assumptions and embrace the value, talent and diversity people with Down syndrome bring to the workplace.

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Young child wearing beautifully flowery dress and standing on the beach with the sea in the background.
Dear stranger

A heartfelt letter from a young boy with Down syndrome (and his mum) to those meeting him for the first time. A gentle challenge to break down fear, ask kind questions, and discover the joy of connection.

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Young boy with down syndrome hugs his two younger sisters as they pose for a photo and smile at the camera
Dear future sisters

A heartfelt letter from a newborn girl with Down syndrome to her future adopted sisters. A powerful story of IVF, adoption, love and the unbreakable bond that will make them an extraordinary team.

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Baby using the edge of his cot to semi-hold himself up, cheekily mouthing the edges of his cot as he looks outward
Dear future consultant

A powerful letter from a mother to the consultant who offered to end her baby’s life at 38 weeks due to Down syndrome. A call for compassion, dignity and a reminder that every life deserves joy, respect and hope.

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Mum and dad posing for a family pic with their toddler
Dear future mum and dad

A beautiful letter from Heidi Carter, a proud Down syndrome advocate, written to her parents at birth. A message of reassurance, joy and future achievements that prove there is so much to celebrate.

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Mum smiling with her son who's lovingly tapping her on the head
Dear future mama

A raw, funny and fiercely uplifting letter to a new mum coming to terms with a Down syndrome diagnosis. A powerful reminder that love, laughter and fierce pride are just around the corner.

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Dad of a child with down syndrome is at a soft play centre going down a slide with his child and both are smiling
Dear future dad

A heartfelt letter from a dad to his past self, capturing the emotional journey of raising a child with Down syndrome. A message of honesty, growth and the unstoppable love that changes everything.

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