A Family of 15: Raising Children with Disabilities in Spain
In Spain, approximately 160,000 children live with disabilities, encompassing a range of physical, sensory, and cognitive limitations.1 Each child’s experience is unique, requiring tailored support to foster autonomy as they transition into adulthood. The Peinador Morquecho family, consisting of Virginia, Rubén, and their 15 children, exemplifies the joys and challenges of raising a large family, including two daughters with distinct disabilities.
Meet María and Laura
María and Laura Peinador Morquecho, daughters of Rubén Peinador and Virginia Morquecho, live in Burgos, Spain, with their 13 siblings: Inés, David, Javier, Francisco, Raúl, Natalia, Claudia, Alejandro, Rodrigo, Pablo, Marcos, Adrián, and Bruno.1 The family’s age range spans from a child born in 2024 to a 22-year-aged currently studying at university.1
María, age 13, has been diagnosed with Oculo-Facio-Cardio-Dental (OFCD) syndrome, a rare condition with approximately 90 cases identified worldwide.1 Laura, age 9, has Down syndrome.1
Support and Acceptance
Rubén and Virginia emphasize the importance of specialized support for their daughters. Laura attends an association for Down syndrome in Burgos, where she receives stimulation, speech therapy, and physiotherapy.1
Virginia reflects on the initial reactions to Laura’s diagnosis, recalling a brief period of distress followed by unwavering acceptance: “They told us during pregnancy that there was a fairly high possibility that she would have Down syndrome. Then we said: ‘As we love each of our children, we are also going to love her, she is one more.'”1
A Positive Outlook
The parents believe that the arrival of their daughters with disabilities has enriched their family life. Virginia states, “The arrival of our daughters with disabilities has only done us good.”1 They highlight the valuable lessons learned, emphasizing appreciation for things previously taken for granted.
The family shares their experiences online. Laura has an Instagram account, @lasmiguitasdelaura, managed by her mother, documenting her life with Down syndrome.1
Virginia recalls initial feelings of guilt and pressure following María’s diagnosis, but ultimately chose to focus on her daughter’s needs. She describes María’s primary school graduation as a deeply moving experience, and emphasizes the reciprocal relationship between the sisters: “Her arrival prepared us to receive her, she taught us to trust, not to be afraid.”1