Down Syndrome Awareness Campaign In Kenya
March 21st was internationally recognised as World Down Syndrome Day. It has been for 11 years and here’s why, just like typical people, individuals with Down syndrome have two copies of each of their 23 chromosomes but they have third copy of chromosome 21, a genetic condition known as trisomy 21, hence the celebration on March 21st or 3-21. Each year the voice of people with Down syndrome, and those who live and work with them, grows louder.
On an equal basis with other people, people with Down Syndrome must be able to enjoy full and equal rights, both as children and adults. This includes the opportunity to participate fully in their communities. The reality for many is that prevailing negative attitudes result in low expectations, discrimination and exclusion, creating communities where children and adults with Down syndrome cannot integrate successfully with their peers.
In Kenya, the day was marked with a campaign called “My Ella Down Syndrome Awareness Campaign” aimed at the construction of My Ella Down Syndrome Resource specialized – A specialized multi-disciplinary center focused on Down syndrome, which would ensure that each child’s developmental and psychological needs are met, allowing the children to live independently and reach their full potential. The great mind behind this worthy course is Eva Gichuki Migadde whose daughter Ella Wambui was born with Down syndrome. Read more on Ella here
Create A Tee joined the course by providing t-shirts, which would be sold, and all proceeds raised channeled to the construction of My Ella resource centre.
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There is an interesting fact about people with Down syndrome that is ripe for research — they are protected from hypertension, coronary artery disease, and most solid tumors. Now, that is a difference we can certainly crow about. Thank you to every single person who took part in marking the day.
The campaign is still on go to MEDSAC T-shirts and place an order.
#ATee4ACourse
