Down syndrome: Why It Matters?

It matters....

Even if it doesn't affect you directly.

It matters....

Even if you've never met someone with the condition or even heard of it.

It matters....

Even if it doesn't peak your interests.

Why?

Here's why....

Because in the event that you do stumble upon it, you know it is not the end of the world...nor the life you pictured and highly anticipated for yourself or your loved one has inevitably changed for the worse; that the fear of the unknown would not lead to any misguided, life-altering decisions. No, on the contrary, it's just the beginning of endless possibilities; that, like most things, the outcome is very unpredictable.

Because a little knowledge won't hurt and life has its way of catching you off-guard.

With understanding of this medical condition, you know exactly how to respond to the couple who got the news or what to say to parents whose kid has the condition or say to the person who has ir; that pity, prejudice and bewildered stares will no longer be warranted; and the ignorance that comes with casually using the term "retard" will take on an entirely new meaning. Most of all, therein, comes the recognition and acceptance of individuals with Down syndrome as part of society and as an individual all its own treated equally without the stigma and stereotyping that occurs with unfamiliarity. No longer shall it be reckoned that they are any different from you or me but that the difference would be as though they were just of a different race or color, religion, upbringing, socio-economic status, background, etc. Considering that most of us have our own limitations and strengths.

An understanding of Down syndrome allows someone to say, "Hi, my child is three, too. They seem to be getting along pretty well, maybe we could do a playdate?" Or "I'd like to know you." Even better, "Can we be friends?" Or "I understand certain things takes you some time to learn, I'm here to help," You'd know that what they need is encouragement, not for someone to feel sorry for them and then celebrating with them for every achievement made, even the simplest of things. You'd also have the knowledge that they are not 'always happy' or 'smiling'. They also go through roller coasters of emotions and feelings of hurt, pain and unacceptance.

Because behind the seemingly uniform features individuals with Down syndrome share, like everyone else, they all vary in their personalities, preferences, abilities and strengths. It is very important to know, understand and realize that Down syndrome is not a one-size-fits-all medical condition; that the physical and intellectual delays range from mild to moderate. People with Down syndrome have great potential if given opportunities.* Many are thriving and holding onto jobs and have succesful interpersonal relationships.

And mainly because they are PEOPLE like everybody else who are just like you and me going through the same hurdles in life, heartaches and pains of growing up as well as joys and successes. Every milestone or benchmark attained is twice the triumph - overcoming a limitation and doing it with twice as much hardwork than is required. Yes, they may look different, may be delayed in some aspects, needed more help than usual but overall they are first and foremost a PERSON who has every right to a normal existence, be treated as equals and who are not to be disregarded because they have Down syndrome.





*Statement taken from DSG Facts About Down Syndrome