In March last year we were blessed with a second beautiful baby boy, when James Patrick Callen was born. We realised at once that he had Down's syndrome, but knew nothing about the condition. However, thanks to a wonderful midwife, we received immediate support and information from the Down's Syndrome Association (DSA) and our local affiliated branch, the South Manchester Down's Syndrome Support Group.
This year the DSA is celebrating its 40th anniversary. If James had been born 40 years ago, the outlook for our son would have been very different to today, and the opportunities open to him would have been severely limited. Now, thanks to the work of the DSA, the future for James and other children born with Down’s syndrome is a great deal brighter. Although they will have a degree of learning difficulty, with the right support they can attend mainstream schools, pass GCSEs and go on to lead fulfilling, semi-independent adult lives.
Great progress has been made, but considering around one in every 1,000 babies born in the UK has Down's syndrome, there is still a significant lack of awareness and understanding about the condition. The DSA provides information and support for people with Down's syndrome, their families and carers, and the professionals who work with them. It strives to improve knowledge of the condition, and champions the rights of people with Down's syndrome. More than 90% of the vital income it receives comes from voluntary donations.
As part of its 40th celebrations the DSA is planning to hold at least 40 walks across the country over the weekend of 5th and 6th June. In order to support and raise funds for the charity, we are taking part in a walk in Rossendale, Lancashire on Saturday 5th June, as a family. We would love you to join us, or if you cannot make it we would be very grateful for any donations.
Thank you in advance for your generosity.
