Down Syndrome Awareness Month

In the 1980s, every October began to be recognized as Down Syndrome Awareness Month. This was started by The National Down Syndrome Society to spread awareness, advocacy, and inclusion throughout the community. During the month of October, we celebrate the amazing individuals living with Down syndrome and to also spread awareness to others not familiar with Down Syndrome. It is important to recognize individuals with an intellectual disability not for their disability, but for their abilities and accomplishments.

Down Syndrome (not Down’s Syndrome) is named after John Langdon Down. In 1866, John published an accurate description of an individual with Down Syndrome, earning him recognition as the “father” of the syndrome. 

The first person to recognize Down Syndrome as a chromosomal condition was Jérôme Lejeune in 1959. Down Syndrome is by far the most common chromosomal condition affecting 1 in 691 children born in the US. There are currently more than 400,000 People in the US living with Down Syndrome. 

Even Though the month of October is observed as awareness month, the goal is to have year-round awareness and appreciation from the masses. There are a few ways to participate in awareness.

How To Participate:

1. Join a buddy walk
   1. The buddy walk has grown to be the largest and most recognizable awareness program according to the National Down Syndrome Society. The Buddy Walk is available globally
2. Volunteer 
   1. There are many people living with Down Syndrome, who volunteer to spend some time with these amazing individuals.
   2. Help teach a skill or talent like sewing or writing a blog 
3. Donate
   1. With many different foundations that promote and support individuals and organizations connected to Down Syndrome, anything helps.
   2. Buy some Down Syndrome support merch. T-shirts, wristbands, car decals.
4. Spread the word
   1. The Down Syndrome Information Alliance suggests doing 31 random acts of kindness, one for each day of the month of October.

The CDC interviewed Megan McCormick, a 31-year-old who is on her way to accomplishing her goals. She was recognized as a Governor's Scholar at her High School Graduation. She graduated summa cum laude with a bachelor’s degree in liberal studies from the University of Kentucky. Megan has aspirations to be an active member of her community and give back. She also wants to help children the same way her teachers helped her.

In 2020, Chris Nikic became the first person with Down syndrome to complete a full ironman triathlon. According to his article for the Special Olympics, Chris completed the triathlon in 16 hours, 46 minutes, and 9 seconds, including a 112-mile bike ride, 26.2 marathon run, and 2.4-mile swim. Nikic is nominated for Best Athlete with a Disability (Men's Sports) and is set to receive the Jimmy V Perseverance Award at the ESPYS.