---
title: What People with Down Syndrome Would Like You to Know
description: Whether you call it an intellectual or learning disability, there is a lot of confusion about what it actually means to have one.
---

[Our Stories, News and Insights | Endeavour Foundation ](https://www.endeavour.com.au/resources/blog)

# [What People with Down Syndrome Would Like You to Know](https://www.endeavour.com.au/resources/blog/what-it-means-to-have-an-intellectual-disability)

 Written by [Admin](https://www.endeavour.com.au/resources/blog/author/admin) | Mar 19, 2025 3:30:00 PM

**Endeavour Foundation employee, Jane, shares her candid thoughts about Down syndrome. **

There are a lot of [**misconceptions**](https://www.downsyndrome.org.au/nsw/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2022/02/Myths-and-Facts.pdf) about Down syndrome.

So, we reached out to someone with lived experience to discuss the genetic condition.

Meet Jane.

Jane has worked at Endeavour Foundation since 2011, having started as a [**Supported Employee**](https://www.endeavour.com.au/disability-services/disability-employment/supported-employment), and has progressed her career ever since.

She is bold, bubbly and brilliant. Here is what she would like you to know about Down syndrome.

****

## **From Tears to Laughs**

I know what a disability is. I have the disability that is Down syndrome.

It is tricky to describe what having a disability feels like. I was born with it.

When I was born, the doctor had some news to tell Mum and Dad that I have a disability.

At first my dad was very sad, with tears on his face. He loves me so much, and I am his beautiful girl.

He still knows that I have that disability. But he understands it now. Fully understands it. Now, instead of crying, we laugh together. We do.

My disability means that I cannot do some things. I have some trouble with sports, learning and money, but people can help me with that.

I get extra support, like with the [**NDIS**](https://www.endeavour.com.au/resources/ndis-information).

I would not change things. No, I would not. It has been so amazing what I have been through to get here now.

****

## **I Believe in Myself**

People with disability can be so beautiful, and they can do anything if they believe they can do it.

I care about people with disability because I know what they are talking about.

If someone has a disability, you should try to be patient and read their thoughts to know their feelings.

I want people to be comfortable, relaxed and understanding when they talk to me.

I believe in myself. I believe that I can try. I can do anything if I put my mind to it.

Sometimes people treat me differently. Sometimes good and sometimes bad.

People who say that I cannot do something, I tell them, “Excuse me, that is your opinion, not mine, so lay off.”

I also say, “It is my disability, not yours, so mind your business.”

Then, I go and do amazing things because I believe I can do anything and everything.

****

## **Here for You**

Are you ready to unleash your potential, just like Jane?

At [**Endeavour Foundation**](https://www.endeavour.com.au/), we have a clear focus: to make possibilities a reality for people with disability.

So you can expect to receive outstanding [**disability supports**](https://www.endeavour.com.au/resources/blog/reach-your-goals-with-endeavour-foundation) tailored to your unique need and goals.

Experience the Endeavour Foundation difference.

Take the first step today.

[View full post](https://www.endeavour.com.au/resources/blog/what-it-means-to-have-an-intellectual-disability)

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