World Down Syndrome Day

Posted 8 March 2012

Nicole Fletcher, an ambassador for Down syndrome in Queensland, enjoys a sailing trip on the Young Endeavour.

Around the world, up to 7 million people are estimated to be living with Down syndrome, like Nicole Fletcher, an ambassador for the disability in Queensland.

World Down Syndrome Day is on 21 March, with the date representing the 3 copies of chromosome 21 that are unique to people living with Down syndrome.

The aim of the day is to raise awareness and understanding about Down syndrome, as well as to promote the rights of people living with Down syndrome to lead active and fulfilled lives.

For the first time this year, the day is being recognised by the United Nations General Assembly, and celebrated by its member countries.

You can find out more about:

• Down syndrome
• Nicole's story, plus read other personal stories
• events planned for World Down Syndrome Day in Queensland
• support that's available for Queenslanders with Down syndrome.

What is Down syndrome?

1 in 700 babies is born with Down syndrome, and children, young people and adults with Down syndrome vary in their interests, abilities, personalities and appearance. Every person that has Down syndrome has a full or partial extra copy of a chromosome—chromosome 21—and they can share other similarities.

Over 100 features have been described in Down syndrome, but generally people with the syndrome have far fewer (often less than 10) of these features. People with Down syndrome have a higher incidence of respiratory and heart conditions, and may also have intellectual disability to varying degrees. They:

• can have a wide range of skills and interests—and keep learning throughout their lives
• may live independently, or with limited support, as adults.

Most people with Down syndrome are able to read and write. A person with Down syndrome may experience difficulties with their speaking, but they generally understand more than their speech indicates, and—just like everyone else—value being listened to and appreciated for who they are as a person.

Our stories

Living life to the full is important for Rory O'Chee, Nick O'Regan, Martin Smith, Nicole Fletcher and Sam Leahy. The young Queenslanders all have Down syndrome. They are very different, but share a common attitude and approach to life—enjoying what it has to offer.

• Nick has represented Australia in swimming, and enjoys playing practical jokes on his friends at the Scarborough pool where he trains
• Rory has a keen eye for photography, and his work has appeared in exhibits in Queensland
• Martin has excelled in karate and swimming, and enjoys having the chance to help others with their sport
• Sam, an ambassador for the Down Syndrome Association of Queensland, loves beat boxing and different types of music, including contemporary R&B
• Nicole, another ambassador for Down Syndrome Association of Queensland, aspires to be a professional chef.

World Down Syndrome Day—what's on?

Down Syndrome Association of Queensland is coordinating events in support of World Down Syndrome Day throughout Queensland.

It is inviting Queenslanders to get involved by hosting a Tea for three copies of chromosome 21, or T4321—to show their support.

There are also events planned on the weekend just before the day, on Sunday 18 March, that you can get involved in. These include:

• a picnic in Brisbane at Captain Burke Park, in Kangaroo Point, Brisbane, from 9.30am to 12.30pm on Sunday 18 March. For details, contact Down Syndrome Association of Queensland on (07) 3356 6655 or email office@dsaq.org.au.
• a picnic on the Sunshine Coast, at Nelson Park, Alexandra Headland at 11am on Sunday 18 March. For details, contact Karra Pepper on 0408 478 620. Alternatively, call Down Syndrome Association of Queensland on (07) 3356 6655 or email office@dsaq.org.au.
• A picnic in Ipswich, at Leichhardt Park in Leichhardt, at 11am on Sunday 18 March. For details, call Alicia Thompson on 0432 685 247. Alternatively, call Down Syndrome Association of Queensland on (07) 3356 6655 or email office@dsaq.org.au. 

Support for people with Down syndrome

Down Syndrome Association of Queensland supports and encourages people with Down syndrome and their families in Queensland.

It also advocates for the rights of people with Down syndrome; and strives to increase awareness about Down syndrome in the community. The association:

• has a contact centre that parents, people with Down syndrome and the community can call for information and advice. Just call (07) 3356 6655.
• organises support for new and expectant parents of children with Down syndrome from other parents who have had similar experiences
• offers education support for students with Down syndrome; as well as parent education sessions and workshops and training for educators, families and professionals
• has a library and a technology hub with iPods and iPads, computer accessories and programs and assistive technologies.