Why I Support Jack’s Basket

Carrissa Carroll is a mother with a big heart and a bold idea. During 2012 she gave birth to Jack, who was diagnosed with Down syndrome a short time later. As a result of her family’s experiences, she founded Jack’s Basket, a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization with a mission to celebrate babies with Down syndrome. Jack’s Basket also strives to ensure that every new and expectant parent is provided with resources and avenues of support within the community. Plus, they aim to educate medical providers on how to discuss the diagnosis in an unbiased way in hopes that the birth of a child with Down syndrome is celebrated like any other.

You Make Me Better

This year Jack’s Basket is celebrating World Down Syndrome Day on March 21 with the slogan You Make Me Better. Wow, do I love that message! So, I’d like to tell you about two people who make me better.

A Welcoming Neighbor

My family used to lived across the street from a young man named Eric. Shortly after we moved into his neighborhood, Eric told me about his best friend who used to live in our house, and he missed her very much. It turned out that our home held happy memories for him, and he enjoyed coming over and talking about those times with me.

Eric also participated in Special Olympics, so when he raised funds, I’d hear about sporting events he enjoyed with friends and how much the camaraderie meant to his family. He also told me that he was saving his money to buy a better gaming system. Doesn’t that sound like almost every 20-something guy you know? I don’t know what my stereotype of someone with Down syndrome was, but I’m sure I had one. Eric showed me that his life was pretty much like everyone else’s, revolving around work, family, friends, and our community. I thank God for the gift of Eric.

A Spunky Niece

Nearly thirteen years ago, another special person entered my life: my niece Amelia. I was visiting with my sister at the hospital when a nurse interrupted us with the unexpected diagnosis of Down syndrome. Because of that experience, I can easily imagine how much it would mean to a mom and dad to receive words of welcome, celebration, affirmation, and encouragement from Carrissa Carroll and others who work with Jack’s Basket.

Last year I asked Amelia if she’d like to learn how to use my sewing machine. Well, she was very excited to sew! She chose fabrics to make a few projects, and I noticed that almost all the fabrics had a dog motif. Oh, how happy I was to find another person who appreciated my stash of colorful canines. Now Amelia has a sewing machine of her own to make fun projects and mend her own clothing.

Let’s Wrap Babies in Blankets of Love

I learned about Jack’s Basket from Louise and Nancy, two quilt bloggers who enjoy blessing people with their talents. I regularly read both their blogs, so when I saw a baby photo from Jack’s Basket on Instagram, I recognized the quilt was from Nancy! That was pretty thrilling to see a baby with Nancy’s gift of love. So, if you want a day brightener, I suggest following @jacksbasket to admire photos of babies with their baskets.

Handmade from the Heart for Jack’s Basket

Family members, friends, and hospital staff can request a Jack’s Basket for someone they know. And, yes, there is a literal basket that volunteers fill with handmade booties, a hat, and a quilt or blanket. Other items include newborn toys, burp cloths, board books, pacifiers, and resources for the parents. If you’d like to donate handmade items or baby gifts, there are instructions on Jack’s Basket website.

I originally shared this post during the 2019 Hands 2 Help event coordinated by Sarah at Confessions of a Fabric Addict.