Today we're writing about a topic that should knock your socks off. Or at least out of your boring everyday socks and into a pair of colorful socks that don't match. Why, you ask? Quite simply, today is World Down Syndrome Day!
Find out exactly what this day is all about and how it relates to your choice of socks in today's article.
The annual World Down Syndrome Day, or WDST for short, has been held on March 21 since 2006. The date is by no means chosen at random. It refers to the numbers that appear in the scientific name of the disability: Trisomy 21. The technical term describes the fact that in people with Down syndrome, chromosome 21 a total of threethree times. "Tri" stands for three and "soma" for chromosome.
The international motto for World Down Syndrome Day (WDST) 2024 is "EndTheStereotypes". This year in particular, the aim is to encourage people to confront existing stereotypes. A viral video campaign makes the point: "Assume that I can!"
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If we pigeonhole our counterparts, we deprive people of the opportunity to realize their full potential.
Around 5 million people worldwide have Down syndrome.
According to an article by Aktion Mensch, 1,200 people are born with this genetic peculiarity every year in Germany alone.
However, this figure is only an estimate, as there are no official statistics.
Here are some interesting facts:
- Down syndrome is caused by an additional chromosome 21
- Trisomy 21 is the most common genetic chromosomal disorder and affects around 1 in 800 newborns
- Down syndrome is NOT a disease. It is a genetic peculiarity, which is why there are no typical symptoms
- People with Down syndrome have an increased risk of certain health problems, including heart defects, thyroid problems and vision and hearing problems
- The development of people with Down syndrome is, as is the case with people, very individual - some need support throughout their lives, others can live independently
Despite a higher risk of certain health impairments, the life expectancy of people with Down syndrome has improved greatly in recent decades. Many people with Down syndrome are living into adulthood and beyond thanks to better medical care, early diagnosis and supportive therapies. Inclusion and support for people with Down syndrome are crucial to improving their quality of life and promoting their rights and opportunities. and opportunities.
As always, inclusion benefits not just a few, but everyone! We live in a society that celebrates its diversity. In fact, it draws its strength from it. Many different people have many different skills and talents. The love of differences is therefore something that should be celebrated and appreciated and that is exactly what World Down Syndrome Day is all about: showing solidarity with people with trisomy 21.
So what's the deal with wearing colorful, different socks?
If you wear colorful socks on this day, you are showing your solidarity and support for people with trisomy 21. trisomy 21. It is difficult to say, where this custom originally comes from. But one explanation is very obvious: three bcolored, mismatched socks resemble thethe typical picture of the gene pattern of trisomy under the microscopep! Therefore stands this style of dress on this day symbolically for the support of people with Down Syndrome.
Of course, we should also show our solidarity on every other day of the year. solidarity towards people with Down's syndrome. Today, however however all bespecial: Packs youre two bestn pair colorful socks fromswap them and show your support! Nou can only create an inclusive world world in which everyone can use their individual abilities fully to their full potential.
