Down Syndrome Awareness Month

Down Syndrome Awareness Month is marked by national programs to promote awareness for the
abilities and achievements of those with Down syndrome.

  New York, NY  –  October 1, 2010. This October, the National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS) invites the country to celebrate Down Syndrome Awareness Month in recognition of the many achievements and abilities of  people with Down syndrome.   

  Down syndrome is the most commonly occurring genetic condition, one in every 733 live births is a baby born with Down syndrome, and it is the most commonly occurring chromosomal condition. Advancements in education, research and advocacy have had a tremendous impact on the opportunities that individuals with Down syndrome have to live healthy and fulfilling lives. People with Down syndrome attend school, work, participate  in decisions that affect them, and contribute to society in many wonderful ways.

The above is part of a press release from the NDSS.  I've stepped up on my soapbox before.  As of late, I haven't felt the need to.  For that, I thank you.

For those of you who haven't followed this blog for long, let me tell you the story of Caroline.  It won't take too long.

Caroline and her cardiologist, Dr. Jennings

Caroline is my daughter.  She has Down syndrome.  She's six years old.  She's got a great sense of humor and she's becoming very independent.  She's in kindergarten and loves to read.  She likes to attend her brother's football games.  At age five months she had surgery to repair her heart.  Just a few days before her sixth birthday she had to have her pacemaker replaced.  She enjoys playing with her dolls and blocks.  She can kick my butt in Wii bowling.  Her laugh is infectious.

Another photo with Dr. Jennings.  And Smokies' GM, Brian Cox

Next week my family will be walking in on her behalf at the Buddy Walk sponsored by the Down Syndrome Awareness Group of East Tennessee.

This is where I go all selfish dad-like.  If you'd like to be a part of Caroline's team, please visit her pledge page.



To watch a video about Caroline's story (and ours), please click here (a YouTube video that can't be embedded because of music copyright issues).

Caroline and Luke Sommer, pitcher in the Cubs organization

Thanks.