I have a cousin about the same age as me who has Down Syndrome along with several other medical problems. She was not suppose to live to be 6 months, then wasn't suppose to live to be 2, then wasn't suppose to live to be 5. She is over 40 now and is the sweetest person you would ever met. Remembers almost everybody she meets and always remembers personal details and always asks questions about them. She is just a joy to be around, and I respect my aunt and uncle for not giving up on her and doing everything to fight for her life.
My friend has a daughter that is slightly mentally retarded and she is the same way.