With Us Not For Us – World Down Syndrome Day 2023
Imagine a world where every person born was the same. Same hair colour, eye colour, same height weight, interests and intelligence. Sounds a bit boring, right? We know that this world doesn’t exist, and thankfully, we’re all unique, with vastly different looks, personalities, ideas and likes. Some people choose to be different, and some are born different. Regardless of these differences, everyone deserves to be treated with basic kindness, patience and understanding. For people born with a disability, equal treatment is incredibly important.
In Australia, around one in every 1100 babies is born with down syndrome, and it is estimated that there are between 13000-15000 people with the genetic condition. So, what exactly is down syndrome? This condition occurs when a baby is born with an extra piece of genetic material known as a chromosome. People with down syndrome have an extra copy of chromosome 21, which results in changes to how a baby’s brain and body develop and can result in a range of disabilities of varying severity. Down syndrome also affects a person’s intellectual capabilities, however most young people with down syndrome enjoy a very typical life, with a range of support needs that can be minimal or more complex, depending on the individual.
For expectant parents, the thought that their baby could have a life changing condition is often stressful and worrying. Although there are many organisations and support networks available for families with a child with down syndrome, there are still some people who desire peace of mind about their baby’s health. This is where prenatal genetic testing comes in. EasyDNA Australia has a genetic test that can help. Our Prenatal Package includes not only the Prenatal Peace genetic screening test (with an optional baby gender determination), but also a Prenatal Paternity Test all-inclusive! The Prenatal Peace genetic screening test is non-invasive, requiring no risky amniocentesis or chorionic villus sampling. A standard blood draw is all that is required to undertake the DNA test; however, it should be noted that this does not replace a diagnostic test. The Prenatal Peace test also screens for 17 other genetic conditions and provides accurate results in a timely manner. During March, purchase the Prenatal Peace Package and save $200.
World Down Syndrome Day is on March 21, a day recognised worldwide to highlight awareness and inclusion of people who have down syndrome. The theme for 2023 is ‘With Us Not For Us’, which aims to advocate for human rights in an inclusive way, working alongside people with down syndrome to achieve the best possible life outcomes. This includes a call for people with disabilities such as down syndrome to have the right to make their own choices, with guidance from others, as opposed to having all of their important life decisions made for them. To get involved and learn how you can assist, sign up via the World Down Syndrome Day website.
At the end of the day, it is important to remember that kindness is the key to understanding and being inclusive. We can all make small steps to be ‘with’ people with conditions like down syndrome, without excluding their ideas, perspectives and wishes. Don’t forget World Down Syndrome Day on March 21, a day to celebrate, appreciate, and be with our unique down syndrome friends and family.