Down Syndrome Awareness Month - October 2012

Did you know that October was Down syndrome awareness month?   In October 1984, President Ronald Reagan signed a resolution proclaiming the first "National Down's Syndrome Month".  It's amazing to look back and see all that has changed in the past 28 years, not only in the world, but for people with Down syndrome.  No longer are people born with Down syndrome assumed to be placed in an institution.  Instead, they receive life saving surgeries (as necessary), early intervention from birth, schooling in their local school systems, a trade, a job, and live to be more than 60 years old.  But, unfortunately, stereotypes remain.  One of the goals of Down syndrome awareness month is to help break those stereotypes.  To help people see that people with Down syndrome really are more alike than they are different and really just want to be treated with respect and kindness, the same as you and me.   There is a "31 for 21" blog initiative and I'm not going to pretend that I can keep up with blogging every day this month (you saw my dismal showing in my attempt at a 365 photo blog) but I will try to post more often this month with some facts and stories about living our life with Down syndrome.  What I hope to show through my blog, and really through our day to day life, is that having a child with Down syndrome has not negatively impacted our lives  ... in fact, it hasn't *really* impacted our life at all in the ways that matter.   <Except that we have been able to meet a bunch of really awesome new friends who also just happen to have a child in the designer genes club, of course>  So, please, help us celebrate the joy and beauty that resonates from that extra 21st chromosome! 

 

To kick it off, here are some facts about Down syndrome:

• Down syndrome is a common genetic variation in which a person is born with an extra 21st chromosome.  This  usually causes delay in physical, intellectual and language development.
• The exact causes of the chromosomal rearrangement and primary prevention of Down syndrome are currently unknown.
• Down syndrome is one of the leading clinical causes of cognitive delay in the world – it is not related to race, nationality, religion or socio-economic status.
• The incidence of Down syndrome in the United States is estimated to be 1 in every 700 live births.
• Of all children born in this country annually, approximately 5,000 will have Down syndrome.
• There are approximately 1/4 million families in the United States affected by Down syndrome.
• While the likelihood of giving birth to a child with Down syndrome increases with maternal age; nevertheless, 80% of babies with Down syndrome are born to women under 35 years of age, as women in that age group give birth to more babies overall.
• There is wide variation in mental abilities, behavior and physical development in individuals with Down syndrome. Each individual has his/her own unique personality, capabilities and talents.
• 30% – 50% of the individuals with Down syndrome have heart defects and 8% – 12% have gastrointestinal tract abnormalities present at birth. Most of these defects are now correctable by surgery.
• Individuals with Down syndrome benefit from loving homes, early intervention, inclusive education, appropriate medical care and positive public attitudes.
• In adulthood, many persons with Down syndrome hold jobs, live independently and enjoy recreational opportunities in their communities.

Source:  National Down Syndrome Congress

P.S. You can contribute to support Down syndrome awareness, advocacy and programs through the DSANV Buddy Walk Team "Mason's Maniacs" here or click on the gadget on the left side of the blog.   Thank you!