Down Syndrome Awareness Month

October is Down Syndrome Awareness Month. We've had a lot of people say to us, "Awareness Month? It's 2014! We don't need awareness month! What we need is Down syndrome inclusion month! Or acceptance month! Or advocacy month!"
October is Down syndrome Awareness Month Based on the calls and emails we get here at our National Center, we would say all of the above are still needed pretty desperately.From the new mom who has just gotten a diagnosis...well, she "knows" what Down syndrome is...but really, she has no idea what it means or what to expect.Or the grandfather who calls and says his daughter is expecting a baby with Down syndrome, and that "this is the worst thing that has ever happened to our family". Or the educator who tells the parents of a seven year old, "Those expectations for your child are unrealistic. Don't you understand that he has Down syndrome?"
Or the doctor who counsels his patients to end a pregnancy to avoid the "suffering and heartache". Yes, all those things still happen in 2014 America. We sure are glad all of these people (and others like them) reached out to us, so we could help them work through their questions and concerns. There is plenty of room for awareness, acceptance, inclusion and advocacy all year long - not just in October. But you've got to admit it's kind of nice to have a month to hang your hat on...to really get out there and say the words "We're More Alike Than Different".
October is a time for local fundraising walks and photos on the Capitol steps with your election officials. But EVERY DAY is a great day to truly live the "awareness / acceptance / inclusion / advocacy" message.
When those who are unfamiliar with Down syndrome see our children out on the soccer field, in the dance recital and in school performances, they are seeing them as capable. When self advocates are seen performing their jobs in coffee shops and grocery stores and hospitals, they are proving to the world that they have abilities and that they contribute to Society
Keep doing what you're doing! Let others see your family doing everyday family things - going to ballgames, movies, picnics, restaurants. Praise their accomplishments, highlight their abilities, talk about the joy your child brings to your family and those whose lives are touched by his. Help the people in your community see your child as a person first, a person with Down syndrome second. There is a wonderful opportunity for awareness, acceptance, inclusion and advocacy every day when you walk out your front door! But in October? You can be more "aware" that you are doing it. What Else Should We Do in October?