On February 26, 2023, the Down Syndrome Association of the Philippines, Inc. (DSAPI), held the event, Happy Walk for Down Syndrome, an annual event where people with the said condition spend a fun-filled day with their loved ones.
What is Down Syndrome?
Down Syndrome is a genetic condition where there is an error in cell division resulting in an extra chromosome 21, hence people also call it Trisomy 21. Instead of normally having 46 chromosomes, a person with Down Syndrome has 47. This affects their cognitive ability and physical growth, and causes developmental issues. Additionally, they also become at a higher risk of some health problems.
Statistics show that 1 in every 800 Filipino babies born have Down Syndrome. In a 2014 report by DSAPI, about 100,000 households live with a person with Trisomy 21. For this reason, it has been DSAPI’s mission to not only raise awareness, promote inclusion, but also to empower people with Down Syndrome and their loved ones.
Happy Walk For Down Syndrome: Kami Ay Mga Natatanging Nilalang
DSAPI holds the Happy Walk For Down Syndrome every February, in time for the National Down Syndrome Consciousness Month.
This year, they did it in partnership with SM Cares, held on February 26 at the SM Mall of Asia Music Hall from 7:00 to 12:30 in the afternoon. Attendees joined the Happy Walk Parade, participated in games, and visited various booths with fun activities. There was also a ShowDOWN segment where several people with Down Syndrome shared their talents on stage.
After a 3-year break from holding this event, DSAPI made this year’s Happy Walk even more special as the theme was inspired by Ronnie Lee’s song, Natatanging Nilalang. This song emphasizes the characteristics that make people with Down Syndrome special. It not only denotes fondness, but also empowerment for these people and their loved ones.
Down Syndrome Association of the Philippines, Inc. (DSAPI)’s Free Clinic
To Celebrate the Word Down Syndrome Day, DSAPI will also launch HEALTHCARE for DOWN on March 19, 2023. This free medical consultation for children with Down Syndrome will be held at the PayPal office, Filinvest Axis Tower One, Northgate Cyberzone, Alabang, Muntinlupa City from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
To avail of this free consultation, please register at this link.
On top of the Happy Walk and free consultations, DSAPI also holds Early Intervention Seminars, fundraising events, and long-term healthcare and outreach programs. They also help people with Down Syndrome land jobs in various sectors.
For more information, you can visit their Facebook page.
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