In reflecting on Nicole’s Notes from 2022, a few themes were identified. Inclusion, choice and the need to change the collective mindset have been the main points of the discussion. A movement has started. There has been an increase in awareness and education of the general public about the issues that affect the lives of people who live with disability.

December 10, 2022 starts a year long campaign in recognition of the 75th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR). The slogan for this campaign “Dignity, Freedom, and Justice for All” amplifies the Universal Declaration which states “All human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights”.

What voices are heard? As a person who has Trisomy 21, I have an emic perspective about the lives of people who have Down syndrome. I have had a lot of opportunity in my life. I have achieved a lot of goals, but it didn’t happen overnight. It took an on-going effort, battling barriers, blazing trails and proving professionals wrong.

How many lives do you have? Protecting the life you have is about self-care, making wise choices about the lifestyle you prefer. It is your path to determine the lifestyle you choose depending on your situation. There may be part of you that wants to choose an unhealthy path, one that defeats your purpose and contradicts your lifestyle goal.

Who’s your historian? Elders are people with lived experience, they are very knowledgeable. An older adult is like a big collection of books full of information, like in the library. Elders have lived through many experiences and we need to respect and take the time to listen to their stories.

Have you seen what I’ve seen? It doesn’t matter where we go in life, there are things that affect our mental health. There are challenges that we have to face. Hardships in life can cause stressful events.