Beyond the Photography -

My mission

The name, Precious Twenty-One, has a very important meaning

and I would like to share it with you.

When my son Ayan was born with Down Syndrome, it was a life-changing experience for me and my family. It opened up a new world of love, understanding, and compassion. It also inspired me to use my passion for photography to create a business that not only captures beautiful moments but also raises awareness about Down Syndrome.

In 2016, when our son Ayan was born, he was diagnosed with clubfoot and Down Syndrome. This was unexpected and a very emotional time for our family. During this time, we received much needed help and support from local Clubfoot and Down Syndrome organizations. This experience has inspired me to be an active advocate working toward equal opportunities of children with special needs.

The name "Precious Twenty-One" has a special meaning. The number TWENTY-ONE stands for Trisomy 21 (commonly known as a Down Syndrome), because individuals with Down Syndrome have three copies of the 21st chromosome instead of the usual two. Down syndrome is a genetic condition and happens when someone is born with an extra chromosome. That's why March 21st (03-21) is recognized globally as World Down Syndrome Day. It is a day to celebrate the unique abilities and accomplishments of individuals with Down Syndrome and to promote awareness and understanding

My mission is to not only provide high-quality photography services but also to raise awareness and advocate for individuals with Down Syndrome. I want to change the narrative and highlight the abilities and potential of individuals with Down Syndrome. My hope is that through my work, I can break down stereotypes and promote a more inclusive society.

How I am involved in the mission?

2016-2020: Our family participated in the project "Eurolinkcat" coordinated by St. George University in London https://www.eurolinkcat.eu/

2017-2020: Board Member of Down Syndrome Association in Poland

http://www.stowarzyszenie-razem.org/

Dec 12, 2017: Conference in Wroclaw, Poland https://potrafiepomoc.org.pl/konferencja-dzieci-z-trisomia-chromosomu-21-inne-czy-takie-same-09-12-2017-wroclaw/

2019-2020: Council Member of the Clubfoot Foundation in Poland https://ponseti.pl/

2019 - present: Woodbury and Hudson Parent Group facilitator in the Down Syndrome Association of Minnesota https://dsamn.org/

2020 - present : University of Minnesota - "Families as a Teachers Program". The main purpose of this program is for students to increase their awareness and understanding of the family experience of raising a child with special health care needs.

www.nursing.umn.edu