October is.......

October is Down Syndrome Awarness month! And all of "my" angels have Down syndrome! There is somehthing I would like you all to know if you do not know already, Down syndrome is beautiful, people with DS are more ALIKE then different. People sporting that extra chromosome are, loveable, kind, gentle, smart, caring, sweet, helpful and independent. They go to school, they learn to ride bikes and play games, they can drive a car, and have jobs and so much more! People with DS have feelings just like you and I they feel hurt, joy, sadness, and love (and all the other feelings) And it hurts them and their families when people say the "r-word" When someone hears the r-word and they have a sibling or family member with DS its like a stab in the gut and I know because my brother has Down syndrome and my friend Ashley (who has a little sister with DS) said "Even if I'm in a crowded room and its loud and just one person says the r-word its the only thing I hear" The r-word hurts and it dosn't only hurt families that have someone with Down syndrome in their life it also hurts other families too families that have angels with other special needs in their life! So think about who you may hurt before you speak because you never know who is hurting inside when you say that word! Here are some facts about Down Syndrome:

What is Down Syndrome?

"Down syndrome is a genetic condition that causes delays in physical and intellectual development. It occurs in one in every 691 live births. Individuals with Down syndrome have 47 chromosomes instead of the usual 46. It is the most frequently occurring chromosomal disorder. Down syndrome is not related to race, nationality, religion or socioeconomic status. The most important fact to know about individuals with Down syndrome is that they are more like others than they are different."

Diagnosis

"Down syndrome is usually identified at birth or shortly thereafter. Initially the diagnosis is based on physical characteristics that are commonly seen in babies with Down syndrome. These include low muscle tone, a single crease across the palm of the hand, a slightly flattened facial profile and an upward slant to the eyes. The diagnosis must be confirmed by a chromosome study (Some children do not have all of these characteristics)"

Learning & Development

"It is important to remember that while children and adults with Down syndrome experience developmental delays, they also have many talents and gifts and should be given the opportunity and encouragement to develop them.
Most children with Down syndrome have mild to moderate impairments but it is important to note that they are more like other children than they are different. Early Intervention services should be provided shortly after birth. These services should include physical, speech and developmental therapies. Most children attend their neighborhood schools, some in regular classes and others in special education classes. Some children have more significant needs and require a more specialized program.
Some high school graduates with Down syndrome participate in post-secondary education. Many adults with Down syndrome are capable of working in the community, but some require a more structured environment."

Health Issues

"Many children with Down syndrome have health complications beyond the usual childhood illnesses. Approximately 40% of the children have congenital heart defects. It is very important that an echocardiogram be performed on all newborns with Down syndrome in order to identify any serious cardiac problems that might be present. Some of the heart conditions require surgery while others only require careful monitoring. Children with Down syndrome have a higher incidence of infection, respiratory, vision and hearing problems as well as thyroid and other medical conditions. However, with appropriate medical care most children and adults with Down syndrome can lead healthy lives. The average life expectancy of individuals with Down syndrome is 55 years, with many living into their sixties and seventies."