World Down Syndrome Day: March 21st

Each year on March 21st or 3/21, people across the world celebrate World Down Syndrome Day. For 2020, the call to action is “We Decide.” 

From World Down Syndrome Day: “All people with Down syndrome should have full participation in decision making about matters relating to or affecting their lives. Effective and meaningful participation is a core human rights principle supported by the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD).”

Some interesting facts about Down Syndrome:

• Down syndrome is caused by an extra copy of one of chromosome 21.
• The medical term for an extra copy of a chromosome is ‘trisomy.’
• Down syndrome is also referred to as trisomy 21.
• Each year, about 6,000 babies born in the United States have Down syndrome (or 1 out of every 700 babies born).
• There are three kinds of Down syndrome.

Because of interventions and support for those living with Down syndrome and their families, people living with the diagnosis can live rich, full lives. They will attend school, work, have relationships, and contribute to society in every possible way. Long gone are the days when a Down syndrome diagnosis means severe limitations.

Down Syndrome Resources:

• Down Syndrome Research Foundation (DSRF): DSRF initiates research studies to better understand the learning styles of those with Down syndrome.
• Global Down Syndrome Foundation: This foundation is dedicated to significantly improving the lives of people with Down syndrome through research, medical care, education and advocacy.
• National Association for Down Syndrome: The National Association for Down Syndrome supports all persons with Down syndrome in achieving their full potential. They seek to help families, educate the public, address social issues and challenges, and facilitate active participation.
• National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS): NDSS seeks to increase awareness and acceptance of those with Down syndrome.

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Kristen Fescoe

Kristen Fescoe is an adjunct professor of Psychology at Rowan College, a writer and lead editor at Twins Magazine. She's the mother of three, twins daughters aged 12 and a son aged 7.Kristen earned a master’s degree in Clinical Psychology with a specialization in Forensic Psychology. She began her career working in two prisons in Philadelphia as an inmate counselor and part of a research team at the University of Pennsylvania. After completing her research, Kristen founded a company specializing in Industrial & Organizational Psychology, applying clinical psychological practices in the business world. Since venturing out of clinical practice, she has used her knowledge and experience in psychological principles working with businesses to help them apply these concepts to business practices. She joined the Resility Health team as the Clinical Manager in 2016.

Latest posts by Kristen Fescoe (see all)

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