The Extra Mile SG

Shumin

The Extra Mile SG is a podcast inspired by our family's journey with Down syndrome. Through conversations with people from Singapore's Down syndrome community, we share stories, reflections, and practical wisdom about the joys, challenges, and everyday moments that shape this journey. Whether you're navigating a new diagnosis, supporting a loved one, working alongside families, or simply curious to learn more, we hope these conversations offer hope, deepen understanding, and remind you that no one has to walk this journey alone. Connect with us on Instagram at @theextramilesg.

Episodes

  1. 2 days ago

    From Fear to Privilege: How Jacob Changed My Heart

    From Fear to Privilege: How Jacob Changed My Heart A Conversation with Carol, Jacob’s mom Join us in this heartfelt episode as Carol shares about the early days after Jacob’s diagnosis — the fears, questions, and uncertainty that followed. She opens up about how she was supported by her faith, her community, and the people who walked alongside her, and how this journey transformed her perspective about Down syndrome and changed her heart in unexpected ways. In this episode: Carol introduces herself and her family The early days of receiving Jacob's Down syndrome diagnosis and her initial emotional response. How her perceptions shifted from viewing Down syndrome as a challenge to seeing it as a gift. Memorable stories illustrating Jacob’s empathy, joy, and his relationship with his sister Claire. The significance of community, faith, and shared experiences with other families. Lessons learned about God's love, acceptance, and purpose through her journey. Practical advice for parents navigating diagnoses and the importance of hope and support. Timestamps:  00:00 - Introduction to Carol and her journey with Jacob 01:05 - Carol shares her background and family life 01:41 - How her faith shaped her perspective on Down syndrome 02:22 - What Jacob is like: his personality and passions 03:16 - A touching story of Jacob’s empathy as a baby 04:20 - Adjusting to Jacob as an older brother and his relationship with Claire 05:05 - The day of Jacob’s diagnosis and initial emotional impact 06:20 - Overcoming grief and contemplating abortion 06:42 - The process of acceptance and choosing to keep Jacob 07:16 - The fears and worries in the early days 08:52 - Prayers for healing and how faith transformed her heart 09:45 - The moment her perspective began to shift 10:38 - How learning about others' joys with Down syndrome brought hope 11:35 - The significance of trusting God’s plan and surrendering 12:30 - Love at first sight: Jacob’s birth and the fading diagnosis 13:56 - Her parents’ acceptance and the power of familial support 15:11 - Meeting families and individuals with Down syndrome and their impact 15:55 - What Jacob reveals to Carol about God's heart 16:57 - The ways Jacob has strengthened her faith and marriage 17:30 - Advice to her past self and those newly diagnosed 18:21 - Encouragement for struggling parents: You are not alone 19:30 - The greatest gift Jacob has given her: Perspective 21:08 - Closing remarks Full episode transcript can be found at this link. Resources & Links: Jacob’s Instagram - JacobAweSomeSim

    From Fear to Privilege: How Jacob Changed My Heart

About

The Extra Mile SG is a podcast inspired by our family's journey with Down syndrome. Through conversations with people from Singapore's Down syndrome community, we share stories, reflections, and practical wisdom about the joys, challenges, and everyday moments that shape this journey. Whether you're navigating a new diagnosis, supporting a loved one, working alongside families, or simply curious to learn more, we hope these conversations offer hope, deepen understanding, and remind you that no one has to walk this journey alone. Connect with us on Instagram at @theextramilesg.