Yesterday, March 21 was World Down Syndrome Day, a day recognized by the United Nations as a time to increase awareness about the condition.
One of the leading advocates for the Down syndrome community is Angels first baseman Albert Pujols and on Wednesday, he took to Facebook to share a very powerful letter to his daughter Bella, who has Down syndrome.
https://www.facebook.com/PujolsFive/photos/a.179768465389183.42876.175147452517951/1860835840615762/?type=3&theater
You are a gift to me, to our family, and to all you meet. You bring people together in ways that no one else can. You hold our family together. Thank you for being our anchor.
Most importantly, you have taught me that Down syndrome is a gift–one that is sometimes confusing and challenging, but is also beautiful and life-changing. Thank you for giving me that gift.
Loving you is one of life’s greatest joys, and it is a honor to be your father. You have accomplished so much already in your 20 years, and I can’t wait to see what you will do next. Thank you for being you, Bella.
Today–and everyday–is for celebrating you.
Love,
Dad (Albert)
Through his Pujols Family Foundation, Albert’s vision is to honor God and strengthen families through their works, deeds and examples. Since beginning this foundation in 2005, they have sought to help those living with Down syndrome here at home and to improve the lives of the impoverished in the Dominican Republic.
Pujols is preparing for his 18th MLB season in 2018. The 38-year-old has 614 career home runs and is just 32 hits away from reaching 3,000 for his career.
To learn more about the foundation, go to Pujolsfamilyfoundation.org.
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