NATIONAL DOWN SYNDROMRE AWARENESS MONTH
Connect Through Kinddness
October is Down Syndrome Awareness Month, and it is a time to celebrate persons with Down syndrome and make others aware of their abilities and accomplishments. Down syndrome is one of the most common occurring genetic condition caused by an extra copy of chromosome 21, known as Trisomy 21. This extra chromosome alters the cause of development both physically and cognitively. So it’s no surprise that each year in October we recognize Down Syndrome Awareness Month to raise public awareness about the condition, and advocate for acceptance and full inclusion of persons with Down syndrome.
This year, Down Syndrome South Africa (DSSA) and its associations, is calling on South Africans to Connect Through Kindness. Isolation has become our new normal because of the COVID-19 pandemic. DSSA believes that random acts of COVID-19-kindness may just be what you need to build up your family, friends and community’s motivation again. Through this year’s theme, we realised that no act of kindness, however small, is ever wasted. So, we are, this October associating kindness with concepts like empathy, gentleness, friendship, stewardship, love and giving. Kindness can support one another and create a positive feedback loop in these hard times as a result of Covid-19.
What is Down Syndrome Awareness Month?
Observed in October each year, Down Syndrome Awareness Month was started by the National Down Syndrome Society in the 1980’s. By spreading awareness, advocacy, and inclusion throughout the country, the month is a time to celebrate persons with Down syndrome and make people aware of their abilities and accomplishments. Our late former President, Mr Nelson Mandela declared 20 October as South Africa’s National Down Syndrome Day, the day is meant to create awareness about Down syndrome. In the spirit of celebrating the month, DSSA is calling upon individuals, companies, organisations and other entinties to give a LITTLE and HELP A LOT!
Due to Covid-19, DSSA and it’s members across the country will be hosting limited awareness activities to celebrate National Down Syndrome Day. These awareness days play an important part in the positive shifts in attitudes towards persons with Down syndrome and other intellectual disabilities.
How can you make a diffence
How can you make a difference and show your support? – We ask that you please donate food parcels, sponsor a gift voucher to a needy family, donate your unused clothes to a children’s centre. You can also wear your ‘Jeans’ and purchase a “Just Down Right Perfect Awareness Sticker” for R 20.00 in recognition of this National Awareness Day.
Funds raised from this initiative will go towards supporting families in our outreach support groups in disadvantaged areas.
For more information please contact Ancella Ramjas, National Director at Down Syndrome South Africa on dssa.ned@icon.co.za or 012 001 2441 or 072 652 2377