World Down Syndrome Day a time of recognition and celebration

Established in 2006 by the United Nations, World Down Syndrome Day is celebrated on the 21st day of the third month of the year (3-21), signifying the unique triplication of the 21st chromosome that causes Down syndrome. This day is observed around the world to help raise awareness of what Down syndrome is, what it means to have Down syndrome, and how people with Down syndrome play a role in our communities.

The Centre Region Down Syndrome Society (CRDSS) is an independent nonprofit organization that serves the Down syndrome community in Centre and six adjoining counties. This vibrant, hands-on organization provides individuals who have Down syndrome and their families the tools, resources and support necessary to participate in, contribute to, and achieve personal health and fulfillment.

March 21st is a time for recognition and celebration. Sporting mismatched socks that day is a fun and unique tradition for many worldwide. It originated with chromosomes shaped like tiny socks! Wearing crazy socks grabs attention and gets people talking about Down syndrome. Open dialogue and honest conversation can be powerful tools toward understanding and acceptance.

This year CRDSS is also celebrating transition, looking forward to transitioning back to in-person events for our community. The organization has been quite successful in using Zoom for a great amount of programming, from parent meetups for families to share their frustrations, triumphs and getting questions answered, to dances, crafting and gaming events for those with Down syndrome. Everyone’s patience and willingness to pivot has been remarkable but it is incredibly important for this community to be together once again for smiles, hugs, and most of all, socializing.

Another transition for CRDSS is one in leadership. The board is pleased to announce the hiring of Lauren Smith of Aaronsburg as executive director. Lauren brings decades of nonprofit experience, leadership and expertise to the position and the board is excited for her to develop the next stage of growth for the organization.

Down syndrome occurs in people of all races and economic levels, though older women have an increased chance of having a child with Down syndrome. Since many couples are postponing parenting until later in life, the incidence of Down syndrome conception is expected to increase. Therefore, counseling and support for parents is becoming increasingly important. The Centre Region Down Syndrome Society is ready to serve with a variety of programs.

The organization is active year-round offering resources, educational programs, special events, and new family counseling and support. A hallmark program, the Enrichment Fund, specifically fuels activities that keep people with Down syndrome physically active and socially engaged. Through a mini-grant program, the fund assists families with things like purchasing adaptive bikes or defraying the cost of therapeutic horseback riding and swimming lessons.

Due to advances in medical technology, individuals with Down syndrome are living longer than ever before. In 1910, children with Down syndrome were expected to survive to age nine. With the discovery of antibiotics, the average survival age increased to 19 or 20. Now, with recent advancements in clinical treatment, most particularly corrective heart surgeries, as many as 80% of adults with Down syndrome reach age 60, and many live even longer. More and more Americans are interacting with individuals with Down syndrome, increasing the need for widespread public education and acceptance.

CRDSS is one many organizations across the U.S. that provide an array of benefits to serve the Down syndrome community. Personal support is priceless for families with Down syndrome, and CRDSS is dedicated to serving families in the central Pennsylvania region. To learn more about the local efforts visit centreregiondownsyndrome.org.