Happy World Down Syndrome Day! (and, Welcome to the T-21 Blog Hop! )

Today is World Down Syndrome Day.

Although it has been celebrated for 7 years, this is the first year that it will be recognized by the United Nations.  This date (3-21) was chosen to reflect Trisomy 21, the third or extra copy of the 21st chromosome that causes Down Syndrome.

For our inaugural post of the T-21 Blog Hop, and in honour of World Down Syndrome Day, I chose E for educate (to learn more about the Blog Hop, click here).  For those that don't know or possibly need a refresher, here is a quick synopsis of Down Syndrome or Trisomy 21. 

What is Down Syndrome?

Trisomy 21 or Down Syndrome is a genetic disorder caused by an accident in cell division.  This causes the creation of an extra copy of the 21st chromosome.  There are three different types of Down Syndrome:

Trisomy 21, where there is simply and extra copy of the 21st Chromosome.

Mosaic Down Syndrome where the creation of the extra chromosome happens later, causing some cells in the body to have it and others not.

Translocation, where a piece of the 21st chromosome breaks off and attaches itself to another (usually the 14th) which causes the same symptoms.

The extra genetic material can express itself in a variety of ways, including the stereotypical facial features and heart issues that many individuals experience.

Fast Facts about Down Syndrome:

• Occurs in Approximately 1:700 births and is the most common chromosomal disorder.
• Is independent of race, religion, creed, colour, socioeconomic status or nationality
• Occurs independently of any maternal or paternal activity prior to conception and pregnancy
• Maternal age can be a factor, although 80% of children with Trisomy 21 are born to woman under 35.  

Recent studies with families of individuals with DS have shown:

• 99% said they loved their son or daughter
• 97% of parents said they were proud of their son or daughter, 94% of siblings reported being proud of their brother or sister with DS
• 79% said their lives were made more positive by their son or daughter with DS
• 88% of siblings felt that they were better people because of their younger sibling with DS

People with Down Syndrome:

• Attend school, even post secondary
• Participate in the major decisions that affect their lives
• Contribute to society in meaningful and productive ways
• Flourish with a stimulating home environment, enriched educational programs, positive family support and good health care.

People with Down Syndrome exist in every culture, every country, every corner of the Earth.  Today we come together to celebrate and spread awareness.  Today we show the world lives of value and of worth. 

Welcome to my blog hop,  welcome to my global table.  Share your stories of support, motivation, inspiration, love and eduction.  If you do not have a blog of your own, submit your story in the comments below and/or Down Wit Dat's Facebook Page.  We meet under a banner of inclusion to foster acceptance.

For today at least, the old adage does hold:  SMILE... and the world smiles with you.

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Don't forget to vote for Down Wit Dat as About.com's Reader's Choice for Special Needs Parenting Blog. You can vote until the end of today using an email address or signing in through Facebook. VOTE HERE. Thanks to all who have participated and good luck to the other finalists! --Jxox