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Health For Mzansi

Down syndrome: Living life to the fullest

by Vateka Halile
31st March 2022
in Conversations, Podcast, Trending
Reading Time: 4 mins read
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On this episode of Sisters Without Shame, Shéri Brynard unpacks  living with Down syndrome. Brynard is an author and motivational speaker who has addressed conferences in the United States, New York, Geneva and Switzerland. Photo: Supplied/Health For Mzansi

On this episode of Sisters Without Shame, Shéri Brynard unpacks living with Down syndrome. Brynard is an author and motivational speaker who has addressed conferences in the United States, New York, Geneva and Switzerland. Photo: Supplied/Health For Mzansi

If we were all born the same then life wouldn’t be filled with the many twists and turns that make it worthwhile. This is the view of Shéri Brynard (40) from Bloemfontein. Brynard joins this episode of Sisters Without Shame to unpack life as a South African living with Down syndrome.

Down syndrome is a genetic condition that influences development throughout life. It is one of the most common causes of intellectual disability.

“People with Down syndrome are a little different from others, but they can still live a normal life with full opportunities,” says Brynard.  

Shéri Brynard is a motivational speaker who has travelled the world to talk about living with Down sydrome. Photo: Supplied/Health For Mzansi

She graduated with a diploma in teaching and she is a full-time qualified assistant teacher at a pre-primary school for students with special educational needs. Brynard also gives motivational speeches all over the world.

‘Don’t fit me in your box’

Before Brynard was born, her mother, Suzzette was advised to abort her. “In society, people believe that people who give birth to differently-abled children have sinned and, therefore, they are being punished,” she says.

Brynard refuses to be placed in a box of societal standards.

“People tried to fit me into the boxes [but] I made my own box. I am me and I determine what I do. I have my challenges and only I can decide to turn them into opportunities.”

According to Brynard, there are barriers in the whole world, all we must do is to remove them. “I am not superior or inferior to any other human with or without Down syndrome,” she says.  “There is no competition between us. I compete with myself, not with other people.”

‘Grateful for my chromosomes’

Shéri Brynard is an autism awareness advocate. Photo: Supplied/Health For Mzansi
Shéri Brynard is a Down syndrome awareness advocate. Photo: Supplied/Health For Mzansi

Brynard believes all people have obstacles to overcome from time to time.

“I never felt sorry for myself, it is a waste of energy. My mission in life is not only to survive, but to thrive. And I do so with commitment and passion.”

In her mission of living beyond her limitations, Brynard has also written a book, Shéri: Just the way I am, about her life. Her book underscores the support and motivation between parents and their children. “Don’t focus on what you cannot do, but on what you can do,” advises Brynard.

She has been chosen as the South African Woman of the Year in the category of youth movers. Apart from that, Brynard has had the opportunity to address conferences in the United States, New York, Geneva and Switzerland. “I have advocated for the rights of disadvantaged people, people with intellectual disabilities, all over the world.”

She adds that she is grateful that her extra chromosome has given her such opportunities.

Listen to the full interview on Sisters Without Shame 

Spotify: Click here to listen on Spotify (all mobile and other devices).

Apple Podcasts: Click here to listen on any Apple device.

Google Podcasts: Click here to listen on Google Podcast.

Want to connect with Sisters Without Shame? 

To send an SOS to Sisters Without Shame, email hello@healthformzansi. Alternatively, send a WhatsApp to 076 132 0454.

ALSO READ: Four facts you didn’t know about mental health is Africa

Tags: Healthy lifestyleNutrition
Vateka Halile

Vateka Halile

Vateka Halile grew up in rural areas of Cofimvaba in the Eastern Cape. She was raised in a traditional family setting and found writing to be a source of comfort and escape. Vateka participated in an online citizen journalism course through Food For Mzansi, and her passion for health and medicine-related stories was born. Her dedication to community work and love for social justice and solidarity spaces is evident in her quality time with the community when she isn't working.

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HIV and initiation: Supporting boys through cultural rites Security fails as gangs target Eastern Cape clinics Dr Makanya blends spiritual healing with art therapy Canola oil: A heart-healthy choice for your kitchen No more pain! Tackle the torment of toothaches How smoking causes harmful bacteria in your mouth Discover delicious, healthy dishes that will make your heart sing Rediscover the joy of creamy pap with chicken livers