Hi readers, it’s Kerry and William here again for our second article with Hazel Morgan, learning about the book, 'The Joy of Knowing Pete', she’s written about her son who had Down’s Syndrome. Please look back to our first article if you missed it! Today it’s about friendship.

Did Peter have friends, Hazel?

Yes, he did. Although someone like Pete who communicated without words is very dependent on support to make friendships, he made friends at the boarding school where my husband worked, and we lived. Some students befriended him, notably three girls who’d come for tea or take him for a summer picnic. He also had friends at his school, especially his friend Tracy was a bit of a daredevil and he loved watching dance. We worked hard at including him in his community. He made friends with a couple called Margaret and John, whom he felt quite at home with, and would sometimes stay over. When I dropped him off, he’d wave, encouraging me to leave. This was his place!

What about your friendship with Pete?

I think and hope we had a good relationship. We enjoyed going to church on a Sunday. Pete loved the atmosphere of an old building and the stained glass. I was always happy if he was settled. He also loved music, often wanting the same piece over and over. Thankfully he had excellent taste in music! I have learnt a lot about friendship and how important it is. When someone says they miss Pete, it feels they really cared.

We’ve got to know you much more in this conversation Hazel, thank you.

You can buy ‘The Joy of Knowing Pete’ by Hazel Morgan online at YouCaxton (www.youcaxton.co.uk/pete) at Amazon or order it at a bookshop. Our full interview will be on the People First Dorset website in 2023.

* The writers of the Our View column are supported in their editing by People First Dorset - a charity led and run by people with learning disabilities with support from staff