“Down syndrome is a condition in which a person has an extra copy of chromosome 21. Chromosomes are small “packages” of genes in the body’s cells, which determine how the body forms and functions.
When babies are growing, the extra chromosome changes how their body and brain develop. This can cause both physical and mental challenges.
People with Down syndrome often have developmental challenges, such as being slower to learn to speak than other children.
Distinct physical signs of Down syndrome are usually present at birth and become more apparent as the baby grows.” [2]
“In recent decades, thanks to appropriate support and treatment, life expectancy for people with Down syndrome has increased dramatically: from 25 years in 1983 to more than 60 years today.” [1]
There’s no specific treatment for Down syndrome. But there is a wide range of physical and developmental therapies designed to help people with Down syndrome reach their full potential.
“Despite the challenges, many individuals with Down syndrome have gone on to achieve great success in their personal and professional lives. Here are well known celebrities with Down Syndrome who have made a significant impact in their respective fields.” [3]
“People with Down syndrome are just like everyone else. They have similar dreams and goals, and they want to have successful careers and families. They can drive, go to work, go to college, go on dates, get married, and contribute to society.” [1] “They may need additional help to learn to speak, to learn, to get a job, to navigate friendships and relationships – but there is no question that they can do and have these things.” [9]
“People with Down syndrome still face stereotypes and myths, but they’ve shown time and again that the condition is just one part of who they are and doesn’t define them or limit their abilities. That’s why it’s so important that during National Down Syndrome Awareness Month and all year long, we help spread the message of love, acceptance, inclusion, and respect.” [1]
Resources
[1] https://www.specialolympics.org/stories/news/national-down-syndrome-awareness-month
[2] https://www.cdc.gov/birth-defects/about/down-syndrome.html
[3] https://mind.org.my/article/success-in-all-shapes-celebrities-with-down-syndrome/
[5] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Collette_Divitto
[6] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Collette_Divitto
[7] https://www.wrtsfranchise.com/down-syndrome-awareness-month-10-rockin-people-with-down-syndrome/
[9] https://therapyandwellnessconnection.com/insights/why-down-syndrome-awareness-month-is-important/