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"For everything God created is good, and nothing is to be rejected..."
1 Timothy 4:4
• Down syndrome is one of the most commonly occurring genetic
conditions. It occurs in one out of every 733 live births and affects more than 350,000 people in the United States today.
• Down syndrome occurs when some or all of a person’s cells have an extra full or partial copy of chromosome #21. For a more detailed explanation about the genetics of Down syndrome, please CLICK HERE.
• While the age of the mother can be a factor, 80% of people with Down syndrome are born to parents under the age of 35, with the average age being 26.
• Nothing that a parent did or did not do during pregnancy causes Down syndrome.
• With advances in medical technology individuals are living longer than ever before.
• Down syndrome occurs in boys and girls evenly, all races, ethnic groups, socio-economic classes, and nationalities.
• People with Down syndrome are more like their typically developing peers than they are different. There is great diversity within the population in terms of personality, intelligence, appearance, humor, learning styles, compassion, compliance and attitude.
• Individuals possess varying degrees of mental retardation, from very mild to severe.
• People with Down syndrome lead happy and fulfilling lives socially, professionally, and
interpersonally.
• Opportunities today have never been greater – including increased inclusion
in schools, health care systems, the work force, and social and recreational
activities.
• Parental love, nurturing, early intervention programs, improved educational opportunities,
and community & social involvement directly assist each individual in achieving his or
her potential.
• People with Down syndrome are Capable, Valuable, Loving and Unique individuals!
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