Tyler Steinmetz, Junior
This month is Down Syndrome Awareness Month which celebrates those who are born with an extra chromosome. This month is all about raising awareness while still encouraging and inspiring those with Down Syndrome. For those unaware of this condition, Down Syndrome occurs when a person has an extra 21st chromosome. This comes with its own challenges and setbacks however this does not mean that someone with Down Syndrome can not live a happy and wonderful life! Down Syndrome is found in around 1 in 700 babies and although many people think there is only one type of Down Syndrome there are actually three different variations. These types are Trisomy 21, which is the most common, Translocation, and Mosaicism which are both very rare but still occur.
There are so many different ways to celebrate Down Syndrome Awareness Month. One of the best and most popular ways is to join a buddy walk. If you are unaware of what this is, a buddy walk is where you can walk a mile with someone with Down Syndrome. This event began in 1995 and has become more and more popular every year that it continues. The walk is all about inclusion and acceptance and has become a widespread way to celebrate Down Syndrome Awareness Month.
If you are unable to participate in a buddy walk, don't worry, there are so many other ways to celebrate and contribute to bringing awareness. Volunteering for different advocacy groups or donating to a charity that specializes in down syndrome awareness such as the National Down Syndrome Society are other great ways to contribute.
If all of the aforementioned ideas aren't for you, the best way to still help is to just spread the word. Whether it is by completing thirty-one random acts of kindness or posting about Down Syndrome Awareness Month on social media, it is super simple to make a difference for all who have this condition.
Also educating others about Down Syndrome and debunking the many false claims and myths about this condition can make the world a much happier place. If you are unsure what to tell people, some of the most important things to educate others about Down Syndrome include that Down Syndrome does not mean that a person cannot live a fulfilling life. Those with Down Syndrome can thrive in modern society and make our world a better place. Also, a lot of people believe that those with Down Syndrome will never be independent and will always need intense support to do even simple tasks. Although people with Down Syndrome sometimes need assistance, that doesn't stop them from working jobs, getting married, and still enjoying the simple pleasures of life!
Also, be sure to make an effort to get to know those with Down Syndrome since they have interests and emotions just like everyone else! People with Down Syndrome tend to be looked down upon or seen as someone you couldn't be friends with even though it is completely false and people with Down Syndrome often make great friends!
Just remember that among the festivities of Halloween and fall, there is another important reason to celebrate this month and that you can truly make a difference in so many people's lives all around the world!
Sources:
https://nationaltoday.com/down-syndrome-awareness-month/#why-we-love
https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/birthdefects/downsyndrome.html
https://dsact.org/buddy-walk/
https://www.ndss.org/syndrome-awareness-month-means/
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