HOUSTON, March 11, 2019 – March 21st is World Down Syndrome Day. This date, 3-21, is celebrated globally by various Down syndrome organizations as a representation of the three copies of chromosome 21 (instead of two) that is the genetic make-up of trisomy 21, more commonly known as Down syndrome. This day is not celebrated to communicate the details of this chromosomal condition, but rather a reminder that individuals are more alike than different and provide a unique perspective and immeasurable gifts of joy, happiness, and kindness in an often too fast-paced society. It is a day to encourage acceptance, and to change old misconceptions about those with Down syndrome.
Down syndrome is the most frequently occurring chromosomal disorder in the world; with approximately one in every 700 babies born with Down syndrome. Today in the U.S., individuals with Down syndrome are not only experiencing unprecedented acceptance but also achieving great successes. GiGi’s Playhouses throughout the U.S. are focused on continuing to drive awareness of Down syndrome, and to educate, train, and advocate for individuals with Down syndrome. This 2019 World Down Syndrome Day theme is, “Leave no one behind” and encourages caring for everyone in communities and acceptance for all. Supporters are invited to share stories about friends and family with Down syndrome, and demonstrations of kindness and acceptance on social media using hashtags #LeaveNoOneBehind, #WorldDownSyndromeDay, #WDSD19, #gigisplayhouse, and #generationG.
“We are encouraging all Houstonians to wear their happiest, craziest, most colorful socks as a sign of acknowledgment and support for all our citizens with Down syndrome on March 21st, and share via social media hashtags”, says Sarah Stanfield GiGi’s Playhouse Sugar Land Board President. “Houston has always been a leader in showing strength and compassion during turbulent times and towards those in need. We hope Houstonians will rock their socks this World Down Syndrome Day”.
There are now two GiGi’s Playhouse locations serving greater Houston, GiGi’s Playhouse Sugar Land, located at 14015
Southwest Fwy building 11, Sugar Land, TX 77478, and GiGi’s Playhouse Houston, located at 1704 Seamist Dr. Suite
#400, Building 4, Houston, TX 77008. Both are just two of more than 40 Down Syndrome Achievement Centers across
the U.S. and Mexico. The mission of GiGi’s Playhouse is to change the way the world views Down syndrome through
national campaigns, educational programs, and by empowering individuals with Down syndrome, their families and the
community. GiGi’s Playhouse offers free purposeful therapeutic and educational programming to individuals with Down
syndrome and their families.
Facebook: @GiGisPlayhouseSugarland; @GiGisPlayhouseHouston.
For more information contact Robin Beattie. Images provided by GiGi’s Playhouse Sugar Land.