Thursday, 09 October 2008

• Raising Money and Awareness for Down Syndrome

  by Mama Pig

  I finally got around to registering us for Buddy Walk 2008. For those that have no clue what I am talking about, the annual Buddy Walk is something done nationwide to support Down syndrome. Below is some information that I took from the Down syndrome Association of San Diego.
  
  The Buddy Walk was established in 1995 by the National Down Syndrome Society to celebrate Down Syndrome Awareness Month in October and to promote acceptance and inclusion of people with Down syndrome. Today, the Buddy Walk program is supported nationally by NDSS and organized at the local level by parent support groups, schools, and other organizations and individuals.
  
  Over the past thirteen years, the Buddy Walk program has grown from 17 walks to more than 275 expected in 2008 across the country and around the world. Last year alone, 250,000 people participated in a Buddy Walk! They raised more than $9.5 million to benefit national education, research and advocacy initiatives, as well as local programs. These funds enable NDSS and local groups to offer services that support and enhance the quality of life for individuals with Down syndrome and their families.
  
  Since this is Down syndrome Awareness Month, I thought I would share some facts that you might not know. I can tell you, prior to little E, I knew next to nothing about this and am thankful for the information made available to me through various sites. This list of facts was also taken from dsasdonline.org.
  

  • Down syndrome is the most commonly occurring chromosomal abnormality. One in every 800 to 1,000 babies is born with Down syndrome.

  • There are more than 350,000 people living with Down syndrome in the United States.

  • The incidence of births of children with Down syndrome increases with the age of the mother. But due to higher fertility rates in younger women, 80 percent of children with Down syndrome are born to women under 35 years of age.

  • People with Down syndrome have an increased risk for certain medical conditions such as congenital heart defects, respiratory and hearing problems, Alzheimer's disease, childhood leukemia, and thyroid conditions. Many of these conditions are now treatable, so most people with Down syndrome lead healthy lives.

  • All people with Down syndrome experience cognitive delays, but the effect is usually mild to moderate and is not indicative of the many strengths and talents that each individual possesses.

  • Quality educational programs, a stimulating home environment, good health care, and positive support from family, friends and the community enable people with Down syndrome to develop their full potential and lead fulfilling lives.

  So, I realize you didn't come here for a lesson in Down syndrome, but I feel strongly that this information is something we could all benefit in knowing.
  
  Do you know anyone with Down Syndrome? 
  
  

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