To celebrate World Down Syndrome Day (which is today March 21st, 2025) our host Kira Dineen sits down with Carissa Carroll, the founder of Jack’s Basket, a nonprofit dedicated to celebrating babies with Down syndrome and supporting their families. Inspired by her son Jack, Carissa launched Jack’s Basket to provide new parents with resources, encouragement, and community connections.

In this heartfelt conversation, we explore:

The power of celebrating every baby with Down syndrome
How healthcare providers can deliver a diagnosis with compassion
The essential resources and support networks available for families
The profound impact of Jack’s Basket worldwide
The role of education and awareness in fostering inclusion

Whether you’re a healthcare professional, a parent, or an advocate, this episode sheds light on the importance of positive, informed communication and the life-changing support of community organizations like Jack’s Basket.

About Our Guest:

Carissa Carroll is an alumna of Bethel University and the University of Minnesota. She taught at elementary and collegiate levels before a sweet baby boy named Jack changed her heart and passion. After an abrupt and assumptive diagnosis experience, Carissa felt led to start Jack’s Basket. She wanted to make a change for future parents, ensuring that they felt their child was a reason to celebrate and have opportunities to connect within the community. Carissa presents to medical professionals about how to deliver the diagnosis without bias, works with the Jack’s Basket board to further the mission, and connects with volunteers who deliver baskets.

Jack’s Basket Resources:

Request a Basket

Genetic Counseling Webinar: "Communicating Unexpected News"

Other DNA Today Episodes About Down Syndrome:

#176 Glee's Lauren Potter on Down Syndrome Awareness

#280 Celebrating Down Syndrome with Parent & Nurse Jenness Stock

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DNA Today is hosted and produced by Kira Dineen, MS, LCGC, CG(ASCP)CM . Our Video Lead is Amanda Andreoli. Our Social Media Lead is Kajal Patel. Our Outreach Intern is Liv Davidson. And our logo Graphic Designer is Ashlyn Enokian, MS, CGC.

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#333 Approaching a Down Syndrome Diagnosis with Care