World Down Syndrome Day (WDSD) is held on 21 March. Since its official recognition by the United Nations in 2012, this day has created an abundance of awareness and celebrated the Down Syndrome community on a worldwide scale. 

The date for World Down Syndrome Day; being observed on the 21st day of the 3rd month, is to signify the uniqueness of the triplication (trisomy) of the 21st chromosome which causes Down Syndrome. 

This year the theme is: End the stereotypes. Unfortunately, individuals with Down Syndrome often face unfair treatment due to these stereotypes. From denied access to quality education and healthcare to limited career opportunities, their voices are often silenced. That’s why spreading awareness and challenging these stereotypes is crucial.

We have many wonderful members of our community living with Down Syndrome. They are each invaluable, and words can’t express the joy they bring to the lives of those around them on a daily basis. 

Luke and Karlee are two of them! To acknowledge World Down Syndrome Day, they were generous enough to share their insights (with the help of their parents), for us to gain a deeper understanding of down syndrome, and what we can do as a community to increase accessibility and as this year’s theme calls for; end stereotypes.

Luke

25 year old Luke lives life to the max! He manages to make time to keep social and stay fit, while balancing his five-day work week. Luke’s goals are based on health and well-being, making new friendships and maintaining his current role.

His NDIS plan supports these goals, as Luke continues to receive allied health therapies that keep his health and wellbeing goals on track, and attending group programs supports his desire to form meaningful friendships.

Luke’s mum Angela, says, “Through Therapy Care Luke has matured, made new friendships and connections. Being a part of the Therapy Care community has given Luke the opportunity to create a social life away from family – all while looking after his fitness goals.”

She continues, “Luke loves going to the gym and going away with support workers (buddies) for holidays or weekends. He particularly loves the activities he partakes in during these trips such as surfing. A recent highlight has been his stay at the zoo where he got to feed a giraffe!”

When asked about what he wants people to know about living with Down Syndrome, Luke said, “I want everyone to know that people with down syndrome are happy, caring, loving and always eager to please.”

Karlee 

24 year old Karlee has a big heart and cheeky attitude! 

“I love music, making TikTok videos and I love hanging out with my friends and family. I also like to party and have a few alcoholic drinks too,” she says.

Karlee sometimes finds it frustrating that she is unable to do things or be as independent as her older sister. Karlee talks about one day getting her drivers licence and having a baby of her own. 

Like Luke, Karlee lives a very full, colourful life. She loves her job, where she works three days a week, and in 2023 won Employee of the year! She attends Therapy Care’s day program three days a week and goes to exercise physiology and gym sessions five days a week (where she especially enjoys boxing).

Karlee’s current goals are getting fitter and healthier. She also is hoping one day to be able to catch public transport on her own, to and from work.

Karlee is currently making progress toward this goal with Therapy Care’s support. Karlee is undertaking travel training, where she’s learning how to use her travel card, locate transit points and travel routes, and time trips.

Karlee loves attending day programs and going to the gym with Therapy Care. She says, “I really love all the great support workers and friends I’ve made over the years since joining the Therapy Care community.”

When asked what Karlee wants people to know about Down Syndrome, her mum Kelly said, “I think the main thing that Karlee would like people to know about living with Down Syndrome is that they just want to be treated the same as everyone else. They have a big heart, are very loving, they are non judgemental, very caring and have a great sense of humour.”

What is Down Syndrome?

Down Syndrome (Trisomy 21) is a condition where an individual has an extra chromosome. Chromosomes may be classed as “packages” of genes in the body that determine how a baby forms and how it grows. 

In Australia, approximately 1 in every 1,158 babies will be born with Down Syndrome and while the cause remains a mystery, the impact is clear. Down Syndrome can present a range of challenges, both intellectual and physical, alongside some related medical conditions. 

To learn more about our range of allied health services and daily living supports at Therapy Care, get in contact with our team: 

1800 861 898

info@therapycare.com.au