Down syndrome Member Shares Her Testimony
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Comments | Return to Story
Mark MorrisonMay 13, 2016
Hi Laura, Such a beautiful story. Always remember how much we missionaries also loved you. Perhaps just as much as you needed to be in Adelaide with your family, it was also to help us missionaries. You taught me great strength and resilience just from you being you and your example of over coming adversity regardless of circumstances. All the best Laura, and if you are ever feeling lonely, scared or un-important, remember how many missionaries you inspired to be the very best version of themselves that they could be. Love, Mark (Aka Elder Morrison) xo
Gina JohnsonFebruary 8, 2016
Dearest Lara, Thank you so much for your beautiful testimony of all that Jesus means to you. Your beautiful words make me cry happy, thankful tears. I am the proud mom of seven (now grown) children. It is our son David, who is now 32, who was born with Down syndrome. I cried so much when he was born. I loved him with all my heart but I felt God had made a mistake. I didn't think I could be a good enough mom to him. I didn't know that David would help teach me about what matters most in life. I loved when you said the Elders came to your school and told the kids they were your friend. I love that you have touched so many lives for the good. I am a convert to the church of now 41 years. I love it with all my heart and I know it is the true Church of Jesus Christ. I love that your grandfather came to you in your dream. When we had David we didn't know he would have Down syndrome. I had chosen to name him after my beloved grandfather. When he was born with a disability I felt bad. I wondered how my Grandpa would have felt knowing the grandson who was named after his had a disability. But then the sweetest feeling came to me. I realized that my Grandpa knew and loved my son even before I met him. I know he would be proud to know he had my grandfather's name. You are a gift to our world dear one. May God continue to bless you in all you do. It is because of my son David that I founded the charitable nonprofit, Sharing Down Syndrome Arizona. www.sharingds.org I am so thankful that God sent you to our world. We need more people like you. With much love, Gina Johnson (aka David's Mom) PS If you are on Facebook my name is listed as Gina Campbell Johnson
Frances MorrisseyJanuary 26, 2016
Thank you so much for your testimony and strength of spirit.
Becki Prengel DuvallJanuary 19, 2016
What a wonderful testimony! I, too, knew your Grandpa Weston and loved him for the special man that he was. He always loved to do missionary work, and I can see that even in Heaven he is still influencing people to love the gospel. I'm sure he loves you very much and is watching over you. And I bet he loved this talk, too! Hi to Doug and Carlie, too--I remember you!
Doug ScottJanuary 18, 2016
Lara, I was a good friend of your Grandpa Weston. I know he is very proud of you and loves you so much. Thank you for sharing your experiences and testimony. You are a wonderful example.
Marc "Poppy"StricklandJanuary 18, 2016
I have a granddaughter with Down syndrome. She will be 3 this year. Thank you for sharing your sweet testimony. I started a Facebook page called GRANDPARENTS WITH GRANDKIDS WITH DOWN SYNDROME. God bless you, sweetheart .
IsabelJanuary 16, 2016
Lara: I have a down syndrome sister and her name is Esther... though she may have physical disabilities, my family and I continue to learned so much from her... we have seen miracles because of her and our faith.. I have learned that Down Syndrome children upon this earth are "God's Angels" placed in families worthy to care for God's physically imperfect beings yet everything Angelic in Spirit. May you stand strong in Heavenly Father's side always...you are by far perfect than most. God bless all those that surround you through you...Be his light on the candled stick..shine away !! :D <3 ya
Marie BrennanJanuary 16, 2016
Hi Lara, your testimony is very beautiful. Jesus does Love us first and forever. We have a son, named Patrick. He also has Down syndrome. He will be 37 years old on January 26th. He is an elder. He is working on getting ready to go to the temple. He gives his testimony every month, in our branch. I will tell him about you and about your strong spirit. Keep up the good work and stay strong in the Gospel.
Wendy WestonJanuary 11, 2016
Wow is all I can say... Lara, I know we don't know each other all that well and that makes me sad. Reading your talk, I felt the spirit so strong and when you mentioned grandpa and the story and dream you had, it brought ears to my eyes. I must admit that there have been a few times throughout my life, that I wished I had Downs Syndrome, as weird as that sounds, because then I would know that I was very, very special and chosen in the pre-existence, before we came to this earth, and then after I passed away, I could automatically live with Heavenly Father. I hope that makes sense and doesn't sound too weird, because you know how weird I am! You are a chosen one, that's for sure and reading your talk, I felt the spirit and a very happy feeling. You are very blessed to have the family you have and I'm sorry that we have not had much of a chance to hang out together. Thank you for sharing your beautiful talk with others. Aunt Wendy loves you!
Carlie ArntsenJanuary 11, 2016
Lara: Your talk and testimony are the most beautiful I have ever read, and I wish I could have been in your ward meeting when you spoke. You always amaze me with your talents in art, writing, and doing make-up. I know Grandpa Weston loves you and is watching over you every day. Thank you for being so loving to Grandma Weston. I hope you are enjoying your new iPhone. Love you, Aunt Carlie
helen leonJanuary 11, 2016
thank you for this special article if only people realized how special these people are and how much they teach us..
Russell CannonJanuary 11, 2016
Steve was our Bishop in the Flamingo Heights Ward and my son Nathan was Lara's age when they were young. It was interesting to see them grow up together. Steve told of hearing a noise in the garage and running in to see Lara repeatedly pushing the garage door button as the door came down on the top of Steve's new car. Steve became angry until he looked over at his innocent daughter who had no idea about the damage she had caused. This incident helped Bishop Weston and the rest of his ward understand what is most important in life. Lara was lucky to have patient and loving parents and a grandpa who loved her from beyond the grave. The Cannons love Lara too and loved hearing her testimony.
LindaJanuary 11, 2016
Great talk! I am so proud of you! You have helped my testimony grow too!
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