Back in December 2005, Linda Phillips wrote about her experiences, from the other side of the fence, when she become a mother to a child with Down syndrome and other health complications. Three years on, Linda reflects on the emotional rollcoaster ride the family has been on as Nia develops

This week I experienced one of my proudest moments – my daughter attending the new intake day at the nursery in the local primary school. Nia was born three years ago with Down syndrome and associated health problems. As I reflect on those last three years I realise what a rollercoaster it has been. Actually, the rollercoaster analogy is something of an understatement as our lives have been full of the highest ups and the lowest downs, with unexpected twists around every corner.