Today we’d like to introduce you to Kimberly Dowdell
Kimberly, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
Kimberly, married to her high school sweetheart for 24 years, is the proud mother of four wonderful children. Having 17 years experience teaching Group Fitness classes, she cherishes how these classes create connections among women outside the gym. However, after the birth of her fourth child, who was unexpectedly diagnosed with Down syndrome, Kimberly grappled with fears and anxieties, mourning the expectations she had held. This emotional turmoil led to depression and a profound sense of isolation. Through deep personal intuition, she found the support, upliftment, and joy she desperately needed during this challenging period in her life.
Today, via her Instagram page (@thekimberlydowdell), she openly shares the heartwarming and joyous moments of raising a child with Down syndrome. After her son’s birth, she yearned for a glimpse into his future, and found inspiration from a young man with Down syndrome on YouTube who ignited hope within her. Now, she’s paying it forward by providing others who receive a similar diagnosis a glimpse of the happiness and opportunities that await them through their own unique life journey
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
No. We’ve definitely dealt with our own fair share of challenges. We’ve experienced job loss, moving across states, going back to school later in life with 3 kids, anxiety, depression, and a child born with an unexpected diagnosis of Down syndrome. It’s been a bumpy ride, but each challenge has allowed us to grow together as a family and has strengthened who we are as individuals.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
Years ago, early on in motherhood, when I was in the height of changing diapers, park play dates and children’s naps, I forgot what it was I loved to do for myself. My husband lovingly told me I needed a hobby and shortly after I became a group fitness instructor. It totally changed my life for the better. Allowing me to do something I love while also giving back to members of the community. These fitness classes and community brought much needed peace into my life after giving birth to my son with Down syndrome. I7 years later I’m still teaching and I love it!
I am also a creator on social media. I use my platform as a place to advocate for Down syndrome and share the joys our son Jack’s infectious smile and uplifting personality. His joy radiates
through his entire being, bringing happiness to others daily. Jack is
truly one of a kind, and followers often express gratitude for letting
them share in his journey. Jack’s positive outlook encourages people to
appreciate life’s little moments, and we often hear, “If only we all could
take a page out of Jack’s book.” Without even realizing it, he spreads
Happiness and light, sharing good news along the way and helping others
feel happiness throughout their day as well. Through our social media channels, my hope is for Jack’s life to offer a glimpse of hope and peace to those who may be experiencing their own diagnosis or health challenges. Followers comment daily on the happiness and joy he radiates and brings into their lives turning a bad day into a good one!
I am also a speaker and author.
Before we let you go, we’ve got to ask if you have any advice for those who are just starting out?
Find what you love to do…whether it’s creating art, making bread, teaching dance, playing pickleball…whatever it is that brings you joy, stick with it and share it with others! I have experienced first hand how anxiety and depression can impact someone’s life and I advocate through social media and my group fitness classes on how you can work to overcome these things and feel joy!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Www.kimdowdell.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thekimberlydowdell?igsh=ZHU1YjRtdzU0ZG96&utm_source=qr
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@kimberly.dowdell?si=jsHHH9utgAV8b3cO
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@kimberly.dowdell?_t=8ppkCTffbSQ&_r=1
