21st March is synonymous with World Down's Syndrome Day. The number 21 represents the chromosome 21 of which people who have Down's syndrome have three copies instead of the usual two copies, thus affecting the person both physically and intellectually.
Down's syndrome is diagnosed at birth by observation and genetic testing, and is the most common chromosome abnormality. Children with Down's syndrome can learn like any other child, given the right opportunities and support. They can attend mainstream schools with their peers and have a customised education programme for most academic subjects.
The world is not often kind to people who have Down's syndrome and some can suffer horribly at the hands of people who do not accept them. This is often because of fear, fear of the unknown. This may come from sports clubs and associations who would rather not let a person with Down's syndrome join up, quoting rules and regulations that one never hears about when other people ask to join. Why can't a 14-year-old join the Scouts or a football nursery and if need be train or attend activities with 10-year-olds?
World Down's Syndrome Day is not only about awareness but also, and more importantly, about acceptance. If one is uncomfortable around people who have Down's syndrome, challenge yourself - just go up to someone who has Down's syndrome, look at them and greet them from your heart with a sincere "Hello". Then move forward, you will be pleasantly surprised.
Reading this article already starts making one aware... now comes acceptance. Talk to people with Down syndrome and see what will work for both of you. It may be a spot of gardening, hints with photography, teaching sewing, individually or in groups. At work, organisations can provide supported employment while sport clubs can source helpful assistants.
Think outside the box, we are only limited by what we imagine.
Anna Farrugia
Down's Syndrome Association Malta