Nov 02 2008
German Doctor refused residency because of Down syndrome: Not the only one!
More than likely you have all heard the news this week of the German doctor who was refused residency in Australia because his son has Down syndrome.
If not, you can read one of those reports here.
However, this is nothing new to immigrant families throughout the world. As president of International Mosaic Down Syndrome Association, I get many requests for assistance in residency to other countries when the family has a child with Down syndrome or mosaic Down syndrome. Unfortunately, we have never succeeded in helping any of these families.
Each government has their own rules. And each one of them has specifics on taking in new residents who have special needs. The reason they do not accept these individuals is because they see them as a liability. They think about all the “What ifs”
What if the person gets sick and needs medical care?
What if the person requires developmental therapy?
What if the person requires special education?
What if the person requires long term care as an adult?
In most countries, these interventions are at the cost of the country funds and they do not want to pay for someone that wasn’t automatically in their country.
It is a sad situation, without a doubt. The families just want a better life for their child. And, some countries are better at that than others.
I guess the final resolution is to work in your own country to make others understand that these individuals can contribute to society. They can learn. They can work. They can live lives just like everyone else!
It is, without a doubt, a difficult task. And, no ONE individual can do it alone. However, if families can come together and begin advocating LOUDLY for their children, then things will begin to change!
In America we have come a long way from the 1970’s of children with Down syndrome and other special needs just finally being accepted into public schools. This was accomplished by a few families who came together and demanded their child’s rights.
Others can do the same. It won’t happen over night, but it will happen!
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