A Gift From Hashem: Growing Up With a Sister With Down Syndrome
The Rosilios have been an NACD family since Liran was one year old. Liran has Down syndrome. This powerful essay, written by her older brother Eytan, shares the impact Liran has had on his life. – Sara Erling
Essay
By Eytan Rosilio
Just a day after my younger sister was born, a woman working at the hospital approached my father. “Do you want to put her up for adoption?”
My sister, Liran, was born with Down syndrome. I was 4 years old at the time and didn’t understand what this meant. She would take longer to develop, learning to walk, talk and grow later than most girls her age. All I knew was that I had become a big brother, and I was ecstatic.
Liran is 13 now, and she’s the most affectionate and supportive sister I could have ever asked for. She idolizes me, always trying to imitate everything I do. She has helped me discover so much about myself, more than anyone could’ve ever imagined.
Growing up with Liran has often been a challenge. Strangers stare, make assumptions, and judge her. Some kids tease or bully her simply because she is different. When my sister and I are in public, people will sometimes gaze at her with awful facial expressions. As a result, Liran struggles to make friends and is often not accepted by others. As her older brother, it pains me to witness this happening to her, and I wish I could shield her from it all. Somehow, Liran doesn’t let people’s cruel words or judgments affect her, and she persists, demonstrating her strength and mindset.
From a young age, I noticed her rare ability to view the world through a different lens. She savors every little moment and is always grateful for what she has. The most positive person I know, she smiles through everything. When someone is upset, Liran offers comfort and always manages to bring a smile to their face. Judging others by their backgrounds or appearances is something she never does. She has shown me how to truly value every moment. I’ve realized that happiness isn’t about what you own but how you approach each day. Her ability to find light in every situation has become my guide for how to live my life.
Liran’s influence has changed the way I see the world and the way I treat others. I strive to make the most of every day and live it to the fullest. I’ve learned not to judge people based on first impressions and to try to give everyone a chance. Growing up with Liran also inspired me to volunteer with programs like Yachad NJ and Friendship Circle, where I support kids and families who feel unseen. I organize activities, give genuine friendship, and simply offer a listening ear, small actions that can make a big difference. I want to be there for them, just as I have always been for my sister. This experience continues to teach me different skills, such as patience, kindness, and recognizing the significance of creating an inclusive community.
Liran is my biggest fan, and she motivates me to become greater every day. Her unwavering belief in me has shaped the way I pursue my passions. Seeing her cheer on the sidelines drives me to perform better at my soccer matches. She loves listening to me DJ, and she listens to my tracks on repeat. Her dancing pushes me to be the most creative and hardworking music producer I can be. I was blessed with a sibling who will support me no matter what, a rare gift I will never take for granted.
Spending my childhood with Liran reshaped my personality and taught me many essential lessons. She opened my eyes to notice finer details, cherish simple joys, embrace differences, and approach others with empathy. People don’t realize that if they weren’t instantly judging Liran’s differences, they could learn meaningful lessons from her. She may view me as her role model, but the truth is, she is mine. My family won the lottery; she isn’t a burden—but a gift from God.
Author bio
Eytan Rosilio is a senior at The Frisch School from New Milford, New Jersey. He is passionate about soccer and music and runs his own entertainment business. Through his deep involvement with Yachad NJ and The Friendship Circle, he is committed to creating meaningful connections and building a more inclusive community.
Attribution
Originally published in The Jewish Link, Issue #621, March 5, 2026. Shared with permission from the Rosilio family.
