March 21 is World Down Syndrome Day. Down syndrome occurs when an individual has an extra partial (or whole) copy of chromosome 21. This results in variable effects on learning styles, physical characteristics and health. 

According to the CDC, more than 6,000 babies are born with Down syndrome every year. Yet, it is still one of the most misunderstood and underfunded disorders in the world. Although accurate research is hard to come by, one study found that over 67% of babies diagnosed with Down syndrome are aborted.

One mom Lorraine explained her experience when she was pregnant with her boy Jaxton. 

She shared, “A midwife later phoned, saying she was ‘ever so sorry’ but had ‘really bad news’, confirming the baby had a one-in-five chance of having Down’s syndrome.”

Many are misinformed and do not realize that children with Down syndrome should be celebrated.

How can you celebrate children on World Down Syndrome Day?

1. Celebrate the accomplishments of someone in your life with Down syndrome.

World Down Syndrome is a day to celebrate people with Down Syndrome and all they bring to their communities around them. It’s a day to bring awareness to Down Syndrome and make others aware of their abilities and accomplishments. 

2. Learn more about Down syndrome.

Often we are afraid of what we don’t know. Learn more about down syndrome so you can see that people with Down syndrome are just like everyone else! 

3. Donate a basket to a family.

Jack’s baskets connects new parents of children with Down syndrome with other families and resources through their basket delivery program. Consider donating a basket to a family. 

4. Wear a conversation starter. 

Wear our Supportstore original blue and yellow “Support Down Syndrome” rubber wristband and start conversations with those around you.