Down Syndrome has always been part of the human condition and exists across the globe. It occurs when an individual inherits an extra copy of chromosome 21 instead of two copies. Each year approximately, three thousand to five thousand children are born with this extra copy.
Reasons for its occurrence are still unknown and it results in variable effects on learning abilities, physical characteristics, and health. But even in such cases, their quality of life can be improved tremendously with parental care and support, medical guidance, and community-based support systems such as inclusive education, access to health care needs, including regular check-ups with health professionals to monitor the mental and physical condition and to provide timely intervention be it physiotherapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, counseling or special education.
With these interventions more and more people with Down Syndrome across the world are graduating from high school, some going to higher education and learning employable skills. But this is far from perfect. These accomplishments have not reached everyone and there is still more to be done.
“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful committed citizens can change the world” – Margaret Mead
In December 2011, the United Nations General Assembly declared March 21st as World Down Syndrome day. Since then every year March 21st is celebrated as World Down Syndrome Day to celebrate the lives of people born with this extra chromosome.
Activities and discussions are held worldwide to bring awareness around the disability. This includes people with Down Syndrome, their friends, families, and supporters wearing brightly coloured, mismatched socks. This is to remind people that “All lives that are different are still beautiful and wonderful, and it matters”.
This year Kerchanshe Trading PLC joins with the global community to raise a single voice for the rights, inclusion, and welfare of people with Down Syndrome around us and the world. As Margaret Mead once said the “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful committed citizens can change the world”.