Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin says she’s “blessed” to have a child with Down syndrome and will remain a staunch advocate for people with developmental disabilities despite losing her vice presidential bid last year.

Palin spoke at a fundraiser over the weekend for Independent Group Home Living, a New York non-profit that provides supports for people with developmental disabilities. She also participated in a walk for Autism Speaks along with her nephew who has the disorder. Palin’s husband, daughter Willow and the governor’s sister also joined her at the events.

Palin’s 1-year-old son Trig has Down syndrome. Admittedly, she told the crowd, it took her time to accept having a child with special needs, but she now is thankful for what her son has brought to her life. “It’s taken a while for us to get to this point where we can say, ‘Thank you, God for allowing us to recognize the special needs community.’ Without Trig this would be absent from us,” she said.

Today, Palin says her son is a “typical rowdy 1-year-old” child, reports People Magazine. To read more click here.

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