A Pennsylvania mom has created dolls for kids with Down syndrome. The custom-made dolls were inspired by her 9-year-old daughter Hannah. Connie Feda decided to make the dolls as Hannah was upset that she could not find any dolls that looked like her.
Feda realized that there were no dolls specifically made with features similar to children with Down syndrome. She was inspired to found “Dolls for Downs” and is creating custom-made dolls for children with Down syndrome.
As reported by Today.com , Feda works from her home . She spent months researching and collecting images of children with Down syndrome . She not only wanted to include realistic features in the dolls, but she wanted to convey each child’s unique personality.
Fifty-year-old Feda worked with a sculptor to create the first doll. They worked together to include subtle features such as almond-shaped eyes and a slightly larger gap between the toes.
As many children with Down syndrome are born with heart defects requiring surgery, there is also an option to include a chest scar. Feda’s daughter Hannah especially appreciated the feature, as she went through open heart surgery at the age of 13 months.
As described at DollsForDowns.com , the dolls are made of water-resistant vinyl and are available in six skin tones. There are male and female dolls , with a variety of hairstyle and eye color options. Feda’s goal is to provide each child with a doll that they can relate to and love.
Each doll is $75, and Feda is currently accepting orders for the custom-made dolls. She has already received orders for around 500 dolls, which she hopes to begin shipping next month.
Besides the website, Feda has set up a Facebook page with information about the dolls and her daughter Hannah. Freda keeps the website updated with the doll creation process and available design options.
Feda began creating the dolls for kids with Down syndrome because she believes that “everyone deserves a best friend.”
[Images via Facebook ]
