“Charis Soleil” means “gift of light”, a name purposefully chosen for this sweet girl.  After 7 years of trying to conceive and finally giving up on the idea of having a child the Crisco family received the best news, they were expecting a baby!  Charis was born on February 12, 2012 and diagnosed with Down Syndrome a day later.  Charis did not have many of the typical major health issues that children with down syndrome are born with, such as heart or gut defects.  Charis began early intervention and physical and speech therapy very young age.  Charis was diagnosed with strabismus at 6 months, which means her eyes cross, she has been doing vision therapy to strengthen her eyes in hopes of avoiding surgery.  Charis also has several food allergies to soy, dairy, wheat, and citrus, which makes selecting meals a challenge.  Despite any struggles, Charis’s parents believe she is the best thing that ever happened to their family.

For more information about down syndrome please visit DSACC.

photography by Erin Pasillas