World Down Syndrome Day 2018


World Down Syndrome Day 2018

After celebrating World Down Syndrome Day at school and after seeing a lot of social media posts about the day, it is known that, still a lot of people are not aware about Down syndrome and why we celebrate a certain day and the reason behind the idea of socks. Hence, I thought of writing this to increase awareness about the topic.

World Down Syndrome Day is celebrated on 21 March each year. It is marked on 3/21 to symbolize a third copy of the 21st chromosome in people with Down syndrome. The theme for this year is What I Bring To my Community. This is to highlight how people with Down syndrome can and do make meaningful contributions throughout their lives, whether in schools, workplaces, living in the community, public and political life, culture, media, recreation, leisure and sport.

Every year, people use the Lots of Socks theme created by Down Syndrome International and celebrate World Down Syndrome Day on 21st March. It is marked on 3/21 to symbolize a third copy of the 21st chromosome in people with Down syndrome. People wear socks of their choice. They can be bright, colourful, short or long, the choice is endless! The idea behind the Lots of Socks initiative is that all types, shapes, sizes of the same thing can be unique in their own way, and yet do the same thing.

Down syndrome is a genetic condition – it is not an illness or disease. Approximately one in every 700–900 babies born will have Down syndrome. Down syndrome is caused by the occurrence of an extra chromosome, chromosome 21.People with Down syndrome have 47 chromosomes in their cells instead of 46. This results in a range of physical characteristics, health and development indications and some level of intellectual disability. It was named after Dr John Langdon Down who first described it. Although we know how Down syndrome happens, we do not yet know why it happens.

Down syndrome occurs at conception, across all ethnic and social groups and to parents of all ages. It is nobody’s fault, and there is no cure and it does not go away. People with Down syndrome may find doing some activities more challenging but, just like everyone else, people with Down syndrome will continue to learn, and are good at some things and not others. As with typically developing children, children with Down syndrome have varying levels of ability. People with Down syndrome can attend school, work, participate in decisions that affect them, have meaningful relationships, vote and contribute to society in many wonderful ways.

Quality educational programs, an inspiring home environment, good health care and positive support from family, friends and the whole community would allow people with Down syndrome to lead fulfilling and productive lives. It is our responsibility to provide them the opportunity to enhance their quality of life, realize their life aspirations and help them become valued members of welcoming communities.

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