Gabby and Beth are Gettin’ Down with Down Syndrome

Beth and Gabby Parillon host their podcast Gettin’ Down With Down Syndrome to spread awareness about the condition. 

Beth created the podcast as a way to help young families that have a child with Down syndrome for the first time. During COVID-19, she recognized that many new parents might be scared to hear the results from an amniocentesis test, which collects amniotic fluid and shows whether the child has a genetic condition. 

She wanted to help inform people about the positives of having a child with Down syndrome. It was created with the intention of being a family-friendly podcast so everyone can learn about their story.

“It’s not just for families that have a child with Down syndrome; it is really for any family that wants to know more,” she said. 

The podcast has a lot of fun and unique features, such as interviews with various parents and doctors, calypso music dance breaks and Gabby’s break time jazz hands. In the first few episodes, Beth demonstrates the fear she felt upon receiving her amniocentesis test results, and then later realizing that Gabby deserved to live her life to the fullest.

“I had to give her a chance. That’s what I do every day – I give Gabby a chance,” she said. 

Beth and Gabby have a relationship like all mothers and daughters. While talking about what Down syndrome is, Beth describes it as “a condition” and says that it is not what makes the person. She always makes sure her daughter can do anything she wants to and tells people they should judge her ability, not her disability. 

Gabby is a senior at Cape Henlopen High School and participates in various activities, including taking on leadership roles such as cheer captain and buddy director of Cape’s Best Buddies. She is a co-host of the podcast alongside her mother and enjoys interviewing the guests. 

Gettin’ Down with Down Syndrome is always looking for guests and sponsors. Anyone interested in sharing their story, or helping support Gabby and Beth’s story, can subscribe to the podcast, rate it and share it. New episodes come out once a month. For more information or questions, email gettindownwds@gmail.com.