World Down Syndrome Day

Thank you to Jessica Knesal for sharing her words with us!

World Down Syndrome Day, observed on March 21st, serves as a platform to raise awareness about individuals who possess an additional copy of chromosome 21, known as Down Syndrome. Awareness entails having knowledge, consciousness, and understanding of this condition.

As we approach World Down Syndrome Day on March 21st, I wanted to share some thoughts with you all.

You see, this day holds a special place in my heart. As the President of the Gulf Coast Down Syndrome Society and a proud mom to Nash Knesal, who has Down Syndrome, it's a time for us to shine a light on individuals like him and spread awareness about what Down Syndrome truly means.

For me, awareness isn't just about knowing what Down Syndrome is; it's about understanding and embracing it fully. It's about realizing that individuals with Down Syndrome, like my Nash, are capable of so much more than many people might think. I see stories everyday of individuals with Down Syndrome getting married, going to college, owning businesses, and living very fulfilling lives.

Over the years, we've made great strides in terms of inclusion, education, and breaking down stereotypes. But there's still work to be done. I remember when I first learned about Nash's diagnosis, I was lost. My mind was clouded with misconceptions and fears about what his future might hold. But let me tell you, Nash has shattered every single one of those misconceptions.

He is three years old now, and he's a force to be reckoned with. He's smart, funny, and fiercely independent and quite capable. He's taught us so much about resilience and the power of unconditional love. And while he may have Down Syndrome, he's just like any other kid – he loves to play, he fights with his brother, and he's always up for an adventure. He has a huge personality and is the only extravert in our household. He makes us laugh, he brings so much joy to every room and situation, he just makes us better! Nash runs wild with all the kids, he keeps up.

He may not get the understanding of something as easily as a typical child but he tries extra hard until he figures it out. He knows his family and friends; he knows what route we take to get to places he likes. He will be expecting a running and jumping full body hug from his older brothers’ friends when he sees them. Nash may have Down Syndrome but he wants to be treated like everyone else. Nash has taught us to quit putting expectations on him and to not assume he cannot or will not be able to do something.

I am here to tell you that Nash’s life and presence on this earth has PURPOSE and Down Syndrome plays a part in that.

He deserves to be included, respected, and valued for who he is.

That's why I'm on a mission to spread awareness and promote inclusion, not just on World Down Syndrome Day, but every single day.

So, here's my call to action for you all: on March 21st, let's show our support by wearing silly socks – a fun way to symbolize the extra chromosome that defines Down Syndrome. Let's also take the time to talk to our children about kindness, compassion, and the importance of inclusion. And let's challenge ourselves to reevaluate any preconceived beliefs we may have about Down Syndrome.

Together, we can create a world where individuals with Down Syndrome are celebrated for their uniqueness and embraced for who they are. Thank you for joining me on this journey.

Love,

Jessica Knesal