At just six years old, Rayce, a young boy from Arkansas, delivered a tender and heartwarming rendition of Dan + Shay and Justin Bieber’s song “10,000 Hours” to comfort his baby brother, Tripp, who was born with Down syndrome. Captured on video by their mother, Nicole Powell, the touching moment was shared on Facebook in January 2020 and quickly went viral.
At the time, Tripp was only six weeks old and had recently been discharged from intensive care. Throughout Tripp’s hospital stay, Rayce showed unwavering love, visiting him daily after school and sharing stories about his day. Powell described their bond as immediate, with Rayce eagerly embracing his role as a protective older brother from the moment Tripp was born. Whenever the song played, Rayce would lovingly tell Tripp it was “his song,” a gesture that perfectly matched the lyrics about dedicating time and effort to knowing and loving someone deeply.
Powell decided to share the video not only to celebrate her sons’ bond but also to raise awareness about Down syndrome and challenge societal stigmas. In her Facebook post, she emphasized that love transcends chromosomes, sharing Rayce’s profound statement: “Love doesn’t count chromosomes. Aren’t we all different?”
Initially, Powell admitted she was scared upon learning of Tripp’s Down syndrome diagnosis during pregnancy. However, her fears melted away the moment she heard his first cry after birth. In a later post, Powell encouraged other expectant mothers facing similar diagnoses not to be afraid, assuring them that children with Down syndrome bring immense joy and are deeply cherished by their families.
Tripp’s birth was not without challenges. During a routine checkup late in Powell’s pregnancy, doctors discovered his heart rate was dangerously low, necessitating an emergency C-section. Powell recalled feeling desperate for her baby’s survival, with all her concerns about his diagnosis overshadowed by the need to hear him cry. Thankfully, Tripp made it through, and his quiet cry became a sound of hope and reassurance.
Down syndrome, one of the most common chromosomal conditions globally, affects approximately 1 in 700 babies born in the U.S. annually, according to the National Down Syndrome Society. While its exact cause remains unknown, factors like maternal age are linked to increased risk. Despite the challenges, modern medicine and early interventions have significantly improved outcomes, allowing many individuals with Down syndrome to lead fulfilling and independent lives.
Tripp’s story, beautifully highlighted by Rayce’s love and devotion, serves as a reminder of the power of family bonds and the importance of acceptance and awareness for all individuals with Down syndrome.