Country singer releases moving song about brother with Down syndrome

A country singer has released a new song about his younger brother with Down syndrome, celebrating the differences they have and urging for inclusion and acceptance.

John Paul Von Arx said on his website that he released the song and music video, which features his brother Sam, to “bring hope to parents expecting a baby with Down Syndrome and express [his] solidarity with families of people with special needs.” He added, “Far too often, there is a stigma surrounding people with special needs and [he wants] to combat and eliminate it and show their dignity to the world.”

In the song, Von Arx explained that he was 14 when his parents were pregnant with Sam. “She and my dad were worried because / the new life inside was different,” he sang. And though Sam is different, Von Arx points out that these differences are in the best ways. “He’s peaceful / peaceful and free,” he sang. “And different than who I thought he would be / that night I learned that my brother / is more than he seems.”

He's Different - John Paul Von Arx (feat. Sam) Official Music Video

Studies have found that virtually all people with Down syndrome say they are happy with themselves and their lives, while both siblings and parents say their family members with Down syndrome have had positive effects on their lives.

The video was released in October to coincide with Down Syndrome Awareness Month, and the statement on Von Arx’s website said he hopes to show the beauty of the lives people with Down syndrome lead.

“My brother Sam is the most peaceful and free person I know. I am thankful that he is different from me and am so grateful that I get to share his story,” he said. “And… in doing so, I hope to share other families’ stories of having loved ones with special needs.”

Before the video was released, Von Arx wrote on Facebook that it was a project years in the making.

“Being part of something greater than ourselves is absolutely key to living a fulfilled life. My brother, Sam, constantly has taught me to live for more than myself. He effortlessly models selflessness, patience, kindness, and love,” he wrote. “I’m thankful that my little brother is different than me. I have so much to learn from him. Thank God for the gift of his life. [T]his project has been for years in the making. My goal for this project is to give hope to expectant parents of children with down syndrome, as well as to give solidarity to families who have a member with special needs. These individuals’ lives are incredible and deserve to be shared.”