Celebrating Differences this October

Down syndrome as we all know is a genetic condition that occurs across the human spectrum. It is the most common chromosomal condition. 1 in every 800 live births is a child with Down syndrome. There are many myths to the birth including related to the mother’s age, to consanguineous marriages and the like. It is associated with delays in physical growth, characteristic facial features and intellectual disability. In fact, the average IQ of an adult with Down syndrome is equivalent to that of an 8-year-old.

These are just information, and like all information, they can fail to provide a full picture. The truth is that children born with Down syndrome can absolutely go on to live happy and long lives. October is celebrated as the Down Syndrome Awareness Month. This month we try to delve deeper into the lives of persons with Down syndrome and inspire the world to learn more about this topic and celebrate people born with Down syndrome. We will also try and cover some of the medical advancements that can help improve their quality of life.

WHY DOWN SYNDROME AWARENESS MONTH IS IMPORTANT

Spreading awareness

Down Syndrome Awareness Month makes people think about Down syndrome. It has been rightly said somewhere that we should “celebrate people with Down syndrome and make people aware of (their) abilities and accomplishments.”

Spreading inspiration

Down Syndrome Awareness Month teaches everyone to celebrate abilities, rather than look at the disabilities of our self-advocates with Down syndrome

Spreading Encouragement

Down Syndrome Awareness Month can definitely help foster inclusion, understanding, and more opportunities for people with Down syndrome, if celebrated in the right spirit.