October a month for Down Syndrome awareness

OCTOBER is Down Syndrome Awareness Month and a chance to spread awareness, advocacy and inclusion throughout the community.

According to Trudy Chetty, the founder of You’re Magical, a support group designed to assist people with Down Syndrome, during the month of October, individuals with Down syndrome are celebrated and people are made aware of their abilities and accomplishments.

“People born with down syndrome are no different to those without it. They are people that are born with an intellectual disability, ” explained Chetty .

“To celebrate and raise awareness of Down Syndrome I have put together some facts about the disability:

Down Syndrome is a genetic condition and it is not a disease or an illness.

Being born with Down Syndrome is not related to gender, race, socioeconomic status etc as anyone can be born with it.

Down Syndrome is the most common chromosomal disorder. It is the result of being born with an extra type 21 chromosomes.

Those born with Down Syndrome have a higher risk of developing ongoing medical conditions such as thyroid problems, musculoskeletal issues, skin conditions, leukaemia, heart defect, epilepsy, Alzheimer’s disease and hearing and vision problems.

Not all people with Down Syndrome have the same personality. Just like everyone else, their characteristics are shaped and formed by their family traits, how they were raised, their personal experiences and influences.

You're Magical aims to create and nurture a loving and inclusive community celebrating every person with a disability, including Down Syndrome. “We will accomplish this mission by empowering and supporting families and individuals who have been touched by Down Syndrome. We want to work together to increase education, promote public understanding and acceptance, work toward full inclusion, and defend the civil rights of individuals with Down Syndrome. One of the services the group will offer is speech and occupational therapies, free of charge. Children with Down Syndrome have speech impediments and this service will help families that cannot afford specialist fees,” she added.

Contact Trudy Chetty for more information on e-mail: youremagical@webmail.co.za or Trudychetty@webmail.co.za for more information on You’re Magical.

What do I do or say if I ever meet anyone with Down syndrome?

Don’t be afraid to say hello! Many people with Down Syndrome love to socialise and meet new people. Some can be shy when you first meet them but they usually warm up to new friends in no time.

Be patient! Those with Down Syndrome are slower and although that can be frustrating you have to remember they are trying their best! It’s all about practise.

Make good choices around them. Those with Down Syndrome are highly impressionable and will probably take on whatever actions you do. So be a good influence and a role model towards them.

Don’t stare! You might not realise but most of the time they are aware that you are staring and it can make them quite uncomfortable. Instead, why not go up and make a new friend?

People with Down Syndrome are just like anyone else! Don’t stress out and just act normally.