What is Down syndrome?
Down
syndrome is a genetic condition which is the most commonly occurring
chromosomal abnormality. It occurs in 1 out of every 691 births and affects
people of all races and economic levels. Typically, babies receive 23
chromosomes from their mother and 23 from their father. A baby with Down
syndrome, for unknown reasons, will have three copies of the 21st chromosome
instead of two. That is why Down syndrome is also called Trisomy 21.
Every cell will contain 47 instead of the typical 46 chromosomes. There
are also two other forms of Down syndrome which are quite rare – mosaic
and translocation. This extra genetic material will affect a baby's development,
however, the baby has also inherited many physical and personality characteristics
from his/her parents as well. A definitive diagnosis can only be made
with a karyotype, which is a visual display of a baby's chromosomes.
In the United States there are approximately 350,000 individuals living
with Down syndrome. These individuals are active, vital members of their
families and communities. A life with Down syndrome is a life well worth
living.
Person First Language
Words can create barriers and reinforce stereotypes. Therefore, the DSAGC strongly
believes in the importance of ensuring that correct language is used
when talking or writing about individuals with Down syndrome. A baby
born with Down syndrome is not a "Down's child" or a "baby
with Downs." When describing an individual with Down 
syndrome,
it is preferred that you say, he/she is a baby with Down syndrome. A
person with Down syndrome is not a “Downs”. Placing the person before
the disability emphasizes the person first and the disability second.
When referring to peers, the correct term is “typical” peers as opposed
to “normal.” It is also important to use correct terminology. A person
does not “suffer” from Down syndrome, nor are they “afflicted”. It is
not a disease. Down syndrome is a chromosomal condition which results
in an extra copy of the 21st chromosome. It was discovered by Dr. John
Langdon Down however since Dr. Down did not have this syndrome himself,
the possessive form is not used. In addition, the ‘s’ in syndrome is
not capitalized. Person First language emphasizes respect for the individual.
A child is much more than a label. Help to educate family, friends and
physicians about the preferred way to refer to your baby.
upcoming
2/7/2012 - Transition Bootcamp: Exiting High School
2/21/2012 - Transition Bootcamp: Exiting High School (Session 2)
3/25/2012 - 3rd Annual World Down Syndrome Day 5K Race and Walk
