The Adult Down Syndrome Center opened its doors just a few years after Ashley Jones was born.
“We didn’t know about the Center until she was a bit older. As she grew up and received care from different doctors, we started hearing more about it. Then her pediatrician referred her to the Center when she was 14,” explained Ashley’s mom, Paula. “It was a miracle – like a door opened for us. All her previous doctors knew some things about Down syndrome, but the Center's doctors, nurses and staff know everything.”
In 2016, Paula and her husband, Mike, transferred their daughter’s primary care to the Center.
“They are extremely knowledgeable about caring for the unique needs of individuals with Down syndrome, as well as helping us know what we can expect as far as her development,” said Mike. “For example, Ashley’s mental age is closer to that of a teenager, and that’s exactly how she’s acting right now. If I hadn’t known what to expect, I think we’d be feeling lost right now.”
The Jones even credit Dr. Brian Chicoine, the Center’s medical director, with saving Ashley’s life.
“Ashley is a Special Olympian, and she became extremely sick after one of the events a few years ago,” said Paula. “But Dr. Chicoine came to the Center on his day off to help her. He knew exactly what to do and which medicines to give her, and thankfully, she’s still with us.”
Dr. Erin Dominiak is Ashley’s primary care physician.
“She just loves Dr. Erin! Ashley was in a play and participates in a fashion show, and Dr. Erin came to see her in both. She even attended Ashley’s 30th birthday party,” said Paula. “Dr. Erin and everyone at the Center really gets to know the patients and their families even outside of the clinic.”
“Every time we’re at the Center, we see how friendly the staff are with each patient and family, and how they make everyone feel comfortable,” added Mike. “There’s no fear about going to the doctor. They do a very, very good job.”
In addition to the medical care, Paula and Mike are grateful for the activities and social groups the Center offers.
“She loves the virtual music classes, conversation classes and game nights. During COVID, she became depressed, so these classes and activities helped her meet new friends and stay connected,” shared Mike. “She recently volunteered at the Vine Street BBQ fundraising event, which supports the Center. She was very excited about that because she and I both love to cook and bake. It was something we could do as a family while supporting the Center, so it was a win-win.”
The programs and classes at the Center have helped Ashley gain real-life skills and experience, and she’s putting what she’s learned to good use. She loves making treats for the staff. “My favorites are chocolate chip cookies,” she said.
The Jones family not only supports the Center by volunteering, but they’re also loyal donors.
“We donate and volunteer because we know what a great place the Center is, and we’re fortunate to have it in our own community,” shared Paula. “The Adult Down Syndrome Center goes above and beyond in every way.”
About the Adult Down Syndrome Center
The Adult Down Syndrome Center is one of the few primary care clinics in the world devoted to adolescents and adults with Down syndrome. Believing that all individuals are worthy and deserving of compassionate health care and committed to enhancing the well-being of adolescents and adults with Down syndrome, the Center’s mission is to enhance their lives by providing comprehensive, holistic, community-based care and services using a team approach.
The programs and services offered at the Center would not be possible without the generous support of donors. Please consider making a gift today.