Whenever I Think About You... By Jacquelyn Marston Illustrated by Anita Sullinger
Each of the illustrations on the following pages includes an image of a child with a rare genetic condition called Williams syndrome. Williams syndrome occurs in more than 500,000 individuals worldwide, and yet it is still unknown to much of the general and medical community. It presents a long list of unique challenges which include lifelong medical, cognitive & behavioral issues. Young children often require one or more surgical procedures to correct cardiovascular problems and a unique learning profile creates challenges in school and at work. But there is a bright side. Medical and learning issues often occur side by side with extraordinary gifts which include striking verbal abilities, highly social personalities, and an affinity for music. Whenever I Think About You brings to life the feeling that every parent has about their young child. It also depicts the beautiful smiles and endearing personality which help to make individuals with Williams syndrome unforgettable to everyone they meet. Scientists believe that as many as 30 percent of individuals with Williams syndrome are undiagnosed or misdiagnosed. The Williams Syndrome Association is extremely grateful to Jacquelyn Marston and Anita Sulllinger for combining their talents to bring Williams syndrome to life in this beautiful bedtime story. I hope that it will peak your interest too, and you will want to learn more about Williams syndrome. Terry Monkaba Executive Director, Williams Syndrome Association williams‐syndrome.org
Terry & her son Ben who has Williams syndrome
Whenever I think about you I can get carried away, because I love you to moon and backa very, very long way!
Yes, I told the moon shining oh so bright, and I told a star in the dark of nightjust how wonderful you are!
I told the night birds all night long, as they sang to me with their night bird song
I told a friendly, fluffy dog and in the garden, I told a frog!
I told a butterfly and a bee just how much you mean to me!
I told the flowers, with their lovely blossoms and oh my gosh I told a possum!
I tip toe in your room and as I watch you sleep I kiss you gently on your cheek
I love the mornings because in a while you’ll wake up and show me your beautiful smile!