The Value of Every Life: Honoring People with Down Syndrome

AGOURA HILLS, California, October 02, 2025 – Joni and Friends President Shawn Thornton spent part of his summer in Oregon at Family Retreat with his new friend, Paul.  

Paul, a 32-year-old devoted Christian, is skilled at cornhole and penmanship. He has a passion for the Gospel of John, leads a Bible study for his peers, and doesn’t let his fear of heights stop him from trying new activities like horseback riding. Paul has a heart to love others and a gentle demeanor. 

Paul also has Down syndrome. But as Shawn learned, Down syndrome does not define Paul.  

While Paul’s family enjoyed respite, recreation, and spiritually uplifting messages at Family Retreat, Shawn and Paul enjoyed a week together as buddies in a camp-like environment. For the talent show, Paul played piano and led the audience in three verses of “Jesus Loves Me,” demonstrating a genuine faith where he has found a source of hope amid hardship.  

“For me, Paul was not just a buddy for a week. He’s a buddy for life,” Shawn said. “Paul’s faith is so sincere. And I think of the challenges this young man faces in the world. He’s often misunderstood and deals with many injustices. But Paul chooses hope through hardship because he sees God’s grace growing him. And he understands that in the current struggle of life, God’s power is shaping him for his glory.” 

All people are created in God’s image, and people with Down syndrome are no exception. This October, Joni and Friends joins other disability advocates around the globe in celebrating Down Syndrome Awareness Month.  

And there is much to celebrate. People with Down syndrome make positive contributions to their schools, churches, families, and communities. Their unique differences demonstrate the beauty of genetic diversity and the intrinsic worth of each person. 

As an international disability ministry, Joni and Friends supports individuals living with Down syndrome and their families every day. Our Family Retreats offer safe and supportive respite events in camp-like environments as well as opportunities to build and strengthen friendships, and our church training programs create safer and more inclusive church communities for people with disabilities of every kind. 

At Joni and Friends, we don’t just serve people with Down syndrome. We are honored to serve alongside them as they offer their talents as equal members of our faith communities. 

Facts about Down syndrome: 

• Down syndrome is a genetic condition caused by an extra copy of chromosome 21.  

• Down syndrome occurs randomly and can affect anyone. 

• An estimated 6,000 babies are born with Down syndrome in the U.S. every year. 

• Children born with Down syndrome lead happy and healthy lives with supportive care.  

• The life expectancy for a person diagnosed with Down syndrome is 60 years or older.  

*Source: Cleveland Clinic 

Despite the immeasurable value of people with Down syndrome, misconceptions lead to a disproportionate number of diagnosed children being aborted, according to a report from the Senate Joint Economic Committee. It is estimated that 60 percent to 90 percent of children with Down syndrome are aborted in the U.S. 

This October, we invite you to join Joni and Friends in affirming, defending, and celebrating the vibrant and diverse community of people with Down syndrome around the world.  

About Joni and Friends: For more than 40 years, Joni and Friends has provided the hope of the Gospel and practical care to people living with disability around the globe. Ministry programs include Joni’s House, Wheels for the World™, Retreats and Getaways, and disability ministry training. Joni and Friends also delivers daily inspirational media through radio programs and podcasts.

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