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Each March 21. Is celebrated the World Down Syndrome DayTo commemorate it, DOWN Spain launches awareness campaigns such as Life is not about chromosomesThese initiatives want to show that there are no essential differences between children with and without disabilities, and who share aspirations, affections and learning capacity. The objective is raise awareness in society and bring it closer to their way of being, thinking, and feeling. The campaign Life is not about chromosomes It seemed to me a proposal full of sensitivity and humanity, with a beautiful message that made me remember personal experiences.
Some time ago I had the opportunity to work with the people at the Down Syndrome Association of ZamoraIt was an unforgettable experience on a professional and personal level: the children, the team, the families… It left its mark on me and helped me through a time that many mothers go through and not all of them handle equally well. Because it's not easy to accept that, during the first ultrasound of your first child, they tell you that there's a risk with Down syndrome. I think it's a good day to tell this anecdote.
Having a child is one blessing, whether or not you have Down syndrome. Although the level of integration y acceptance has grown a lot, there is still a long way to go to ensure full respect and opportunities.
My experience
When the gynecologist told me that my son had a high risk I was 1 years old when I had Down syndrome (800 in 27). The doctor suggested I do a amniocentesisI asked him what it would be useful for. He told me that if it tested positive, I could abortar. But I didn't want to have an abortion, so I didn't take the test. Besides, I told him that I had things that worried me the most that Down syndrome, things that don't show up in any test.
For me, the risk of losing the baby simply to know whether or not I had Down syndrome was unacceptable. I completely respect other decisions, but in my case there weren't enough reasons to risking life from my son for staying calm. Maybe it helped that I was actually calm, because my previous experience with the Down Syndrome Association of Zamora had shown me that, although it may be hard, having a child with Down syndrome is not the end of the worldAt the school where I worked then I saw many realities, some much more complex, and the people was getting aheadAnd I could be happy.
The pregnancy went well. Many people around me didn't understand why I was so calm. But for me there was 799 out of 800 I was sure the child didn't have Down syndrome, and I didn't see it as a disgrace that he did end up having it. A month before giving birth, my husband and I went to a trade show. Our stand was across from a association of people with intellectual disabilities, and many of the boys and girls had Down syndrome. Some who knew what I had been told felt uncomfortable, because they couldn't think of anything other than "what if ours..." For me, it was an opportunity to meet wonderful people.
The child was born. I didn't ask. I forgot. I just wanted him back, because They had to take him away to suction himAnd when I finally got it, I also forgot to check whether I had Down syndrome or not. It wasn't until someone mentioned it to me that I realized. The same thing didn't happen with any of the others.
What is Down syndrome and why is it celebrated on March 21?
El síndrome de Down is a genetic alteration caused by the presence of extra genetic material in the chromosome 21 (trisomy 21). It is part of the human condition and is present in all regions of the world, with varying effects on the learning, physical characteristics and health.
The date of March 21 was chosen for its symbolism: the Day 21. of the my 3 represents the triplication of chromosome 21With this commemoration, we seek to generate greater public awareness, remember the inherent dignity and worth of people with intellectual disabilities, and highlight the autonomy and the freedom to take their own decisions.
Globally, the estimated incidence of Down syndrome is between 1 each 1.000 y 1 each 1.100 newborns, although it may vary by country. The important thing is that the medical and social advances have significantly improved quality of life: Today, a large majority of adults are over the age of 50 years and leads an increasingly more active and integrated.
To enhance their development, access to a healthcare adequate, early intervention programs, inclusive education and community support. The regular checkups, the physiotherapy, the resources of educational support and family guidance have a positive impact on their health y people's wellbeing.
How to participate, symbols and actions that add up
One of the most visible initiatives of the day is that of the mismatched socksThe idea, promoted and spread by families and children on social media, invites people to wear that day different socks to celebrate the diversity and remember that differences do not separate: enrich us as a society. It's a simple gesture that generates conversation and breaks stereotypes.
You can also do your bit with acts of kindness everyday actions: saying hello and smiling, giving up your seat, helping with a heavy bag, sharing a kind word. These are simple actions that reinforce empathy as well as and remind us that inclusion begins with everydayIf you feel like it, share your gesture on social media with hashtags like #WDSD, #WorldDownSyndromeDay o #MismatchedSocks.
Another way to participate is to wear a T-shirt with inclusive messages, donate to projects training and job placement, or promote talks in schools about respect y coexistenceMany organizations remember that, in addition to raising awareness, it is crucial to promote real opportunities for autonomy in adult life: supported housing, employment with reasonable accommodation and cultural and sports participation.
Families, in turn, require support networks that accompany you in the process: psychological guidance, parent groups, family respite and access to educational resourcesIn too many places in the world, assistance systems that respond to these needs still do not exist, or they do not do so from a community-based approach. human rightsIt is the responsibility of the public administrations ensure that supports are available, of quality and respect the dignity of people.
Celebrations and activities that inspire
In different cities they are organized meetings in squares and cultural centers with family activities: music, workshops, symbolic launches of paper Planes, inclusive exhibitions and displays. Sometimes they participate media professionals as masters of ceremonies, and a shared moment is proposed to unite voices for the inclusion. Security forces are also joining in exhibitions of dogs or horses, which usually fascinates the little ones.
In schools and town halls, a day of painting of rights, a collaborative mural or a public reading on diversity can become a great speaker. If you are organizing an event, take care of details such as the universal access, the information in plain language and personal support when necessary.
The spirit of the day is not exhausted in one act: the challenge is that the conversation is keep all year round. Form work teams to promote employment y initial and continuous, update protocols of educational inclusion, ensure medical consultations with enough time and adapted communication, or review how we make our products accessible services, are concrete steps that transform realities.
If you are looking for reference accounts and resources, you can follow Down Spain on Facebook and stay up to date with campaigns, awareness materials, and inspiring testimonies. Their ongoing work serves as a reminder that inclusion is built on adequate supports, real opportunities and a sustained social commitment.
This day highlights that all people, with or without disabilities, share the desire to be valued, learn, work, and love. Accompanying, listening, and offering helpful support not only benefits those with Down syndrome: improves the entire society and invites us to experience diversity as a strength that makes us more human.