Key Takeaways:
– The Down Syndrome Connection of the supp assists families with Down syndrome children through extensive resources and guidance.
– The non-profit organization works with over 250 children and young adults with Down syndrome and offers a myriad of services to more than 2,600 people.
– Programs by the Down Syndrome Connection include referral resources, a Communication Readiness Program, family support groups, music therapy, and community initiatives.
– The THRIVE program of the non-profit promotes physical, cognitive, and behavioral skills.
– The Down Syndrome Connection support commences before birth, as observed in the story of the Lin family.
A Miraculous Start to Life
Newly born June Lin, though arriving five weeks early and weighing 5 pounds 6 ounces, already had an army of supporters. Their anticipation wasn’t merely due to her arrival into the world, but because June had Down syndrome. Her journey and those of countless other children are celebrated and helped by the Down Syndrome Connection of the Bay Area.
Unexpected Discovery
June’s parents, Suzanne and Mike Lin, eagerly decided to do a blood test halfway through Suzanne’s pregnancy, primarily to find out their baby’s sex. The test simultaneously investigated potential genetic irregularities. To their surprise, the couple not only discovered their firstborn would be a girl but also learned that she had Down syndrome. This determination meant June had a duplication of Chromosome 21, indicating a genetic malfunction that would influence her and her family’s future.
Role of Down Syndrome Connection
Sensing their internal struggles, the Down Syndrome Connection of the Bay Area offered a hand, providing much-needed answers and introducing them to a community of parents who had walked a similar path. The nurturing efforts of the Down Syndrome Connection didn’t end with providing emotional support. Founded in 1998, this non-profit organization is a crucial resource for families when a child is born with Down syndrome and stands by them throughout their tumultuous journey with programs for every life cycle stage.
Making Lives Better for People with Down Syndrome
Down Syndrome Connection works with approximately 250 children and young adults with Down syndrome and serves over 2,600 individuals across various programs. The wide array of support includes access to referral resources, a Communication Readiness Program, family support assemblies, music therapy, and community programs.
Among its comprehensive repertoire of programs, the organization offers the THRIVE initiative (Together, Happy, Respected, Independent, Valued, and Empowered) designed to promote physical, cognitive, and behavioral skills. This initiative sets out to prepare children with Down syndrome and their families for a future filled with possibilities.
Life-Changing Support Programs
The Down Syndrome Connection extends its support to families before the birth of a child, as evidenced by the Lin family’s story. After learning about their child’s diagnosis, the organization offered the Lins guidance, helping them navigate their fears and providing them with positive insights. The Communication Readiness Program, which prepared June and her family for school and provided her with a means to better communicate with teachers and students, is a clear testament to the organization’s impact.
Through the Communication Readiness Program, June received an iPad equipped with a speech program. This iPad became her voice, enabling her to communicate her ideas, sharing jokes, and bridging the isolating gap her disabilities put her in.
Aiming for More Empowered Lives
By amplifying the work of Down Syndrome Connection, many more families can benefit from their life-altering programs and resources. According to Teresa DeVincenzi, the executive director of Down Syndrome Connection, money raised through various initiatives will help support its various programs. Their ultimate goal is to see each other as human beings and celebrate abilities rather than emphasize disabilities. As we applaud their efforts, we can’t help but echo DeVincenzi’s sentiment, recognizing that everyone, including those with Down syndrome, is full of potential and abilities worth celebrating.