Down Syndrome Awareness Month!!

October is Down syndrome awareness month!! This gives us a chance to spread awareness by celebrating with those who have Down syndrome and to also make others aware of their abilities and how amazing they are! Many people are scared to talk about Down syndrome because they simply don’t know what to say. Don’t worry, I was there. A year ago if you would have told me I would be the one celebrating, I wouldn’t believe you! If you ever have questions, ASK. Don’t be afraid to talk about it, and most importantly don’t be apologetic to a parent that has a child with Down syndrome. Educate yourselves and others.

31 facts about Down syndromes, for the 31 days of the month.

1.       Down syndrome is an extra copy of the 21^st chromosome. A typical person has 46 (23 pairs), one with Down syndrome has 47!

2.       There are 3 different kinds of Down syndrome. Mosaicism, Translocation, and Trisomy 21.

3.       Babies with Down syndrome have low muscle tone (hypotonia) which is why it takes them longer to roll over, sit, walk, talk, and eat. One can’t get rid of hypotonia.

4.       Today, the average life expectancy of someone with Down syndrome is 60!

5.       Those with Down syndrome aren’t always happy. They experience feelings just like everyone else.

6.       The average height for girls is 4’9”, and for boys is 5’2”.

7.       Down syndrome occurs to people of all races.

8.       Approximately 1 in 700 babies are born with Down syndrome.

9.       At least 50% of those born with Down syndrome have a heart defect.

10.   National Down syndrome day is March 21^st. 3-21 for the 3 copies of the 21^st chromosome.

11.   You either have Down syndrome, or you don’t. Each individual is unique and thrive in their own ways. There are not different “levels” of Down syndrome.

12.   Down syndrome is the most common chromosomal condition.

13.   Physical traits of Down syndrome are almond eyes, sandal toe, short neck, flattened facial profile, simian crease in the hand, to name a few.

14.   People with Down syndrome have an increase risk in certain medical conditions such as Alzheimer’s, childhood leukemia, and thyroid conditions.

15.   Many adults with Down syndrome have jobs, go to college, and get married.

16.   It is Down syndrome, not Downs. People have Down syndrome.  “Reese has Down syndrome”, not “Reese is Downs.” It does not define an individual; it is a part of who they are.

17.   Even though kids with Down syndrome have similar features, they resemble their own family members more than they resemble each other.

18.   People don’t “suffer” from Down syndrome. Most of them are very happy with their lives.

19.   9 out of 10 prenatal diagnoses of Down syndrome, end in abortion.

20.   Those with Down syndrome still have hopes and dreams.

21.   The R word is very offensive. Those with Down syndrome deserve respect. If you are using it in regards to something else, there are better words to use.

22.   50 years ago, many people with Down syndrome were sent to medical institutes. Now parents work hard and fight battles and advocate for their children.

23.   Down syndrome is a beautiful thing!

24.   Dr. John Langdon Down discovered Down syndromes.

25.   Over 400,000 people currently have Down syndrome in the U.S.

26.   Characteristics of Down syndrome aren’t the same for every person.

27.   Translocation is the only type of Down syndrome that can be hereditary.

28.   Down syndrome is not an illness or disease.

29.   Children with Down syndrome go through the same stages of development, it just may take longer.

30.   One’s physical features don’t determine their cognitive ability. Just because they may not have strong facial features, doesn’t mean their cognitive ability is higher, or vice versa.

31.   People born with Down syndrome are a blessing. If someone tells you they are pregnant with a child that has Down syndrome, reply with “Congratulations!”

If anyone ever has questions about Down syndrome, or wants to know a little something extra about Reese, or anything about Down syndrome, feel free to ask. Also, we will be celebrating this month by attending the Buddy Walk, held by the Down Syndrome Society of Wichita. If you are wanting to join us that would be awesome. If not, we are thankful for any donation possible. We are so close to reaching our goal, and we couldn’t have done it without you all!

You can click the link to sign up to walk, or to donate.

Rockin' and Rollin' with Reese

PS - I had to go through Reese's medical records and found her results from her genetic test, and I find it pretty cool that you can actually see the 3 copies of the 21st chromosome.