Submitted photo
By Mary Kaye Falcony
A Place for All
October is Down Syndrome Awareness month. It was designated as such in 1980 and has been recognized in this way ever since. During this month, we take the opportunity to bring awareness and education to our communities about Down syndrome.
Down syndrome is a chromosomal condition that was identified by Dr. Jerome Lejeune in 1959. This condition appears in one-in-700 births in the United States; about 6,000 babies with Down syndrome are born every year.
In 1978, Carson Goodwin was born with Down syndrome. Barton and Betsy, his parents, began to seek information that would enable them to provide the best options for their son. They quickly discovered that information was very limited. So, in 1979, they founded the National Down Syndrome Society. The NDSS has been in existence ever since, supporting and advocating for the Down Syndrome community. It provides information, events for community engagement, resources for parents and families, and models for inclusion.
In 2001, when Nina and Andy Fuller founded S.M.I. L.E. on Down Syndrome here in Evansville, NDSS provided much-needed information to the Fullers. In the 20 years since its inception, S.M.I.L.E. has flourished. It has grown immensely from the first 15 families that arrived at the Fullers’ home for that first gathering.
Over the years, the Buddy Walk (SMILE Mile) has become an annual community event, celebrating individuals with Down Syndrome; and acknowledging their abilities, gifts and accomplishments. The monies raised help to provide for the many enrichment experiences offered at the SMILE Center, located at 4900 Shamrock Dr. These activities are made available to individuals with Down Syndrome and other intellectual disabilities, and their families.
Twenty years later, S.M.I.L.E. on Down Syndrome is still fulfilling its mission to provide Support, Management, Information, Love and Encouragement to individuals with Down Syndrome and their families. Through the efforts and great love of the Fullers and the countless individuals who support and serve the Down Syndrome community, it is evident that there will be a bright hope for tomorrow.
If you would like to know more about S.M.I.L.E or volunteer, please visit https://smileondownsyndrome. Org/smile-center/
You also may be interested in the life and work of Dr. Jerome Lejeune (renowned geneticist and pediatrician), whose passion and mission focused on caring for and improving the life of “little ones” – those individuals with Down syndrome. At the present time, Doctor Lejeune’s cause for canonization is underway. Read more about him by visiting https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/246189/pope-francis-recognizes-heroic-virtues-of-pioneering-french-geneticist-jerome-lejeune