DOWN SYNDROME AWARENESS*************************************************** The world needs educating to help people realize, children, teens, and young adults with Down Syndrome aren't "retards", but they're living breathing people...People who need love and affection and attention, just like everyone else in the world. It helps make people appreciate the beautiful gift of life.Down syndrome is a genetic condition that causes delays in physical and intellectual development. It occurs in approximately one in every 800 live births. Individuals with Down Syndrome have 47 chromosomes instead of the usual 46. It is the most frequently occurring chromosomal disorder. Down Syndrome is not related to race, nationality, religion or socioeconomic status. The most important fact to know about individuals with Down Syndrome is that they are more like others than they are different.DS Websites http://www.nads.org/index.htm http://www.aim-high.org/ http://www.marchofdimes.com/professionals/681_1214.asp ************************************************************ The opportunities currently available to individuals with Down syndrome have never been greater. However, it is only through the collective efforts of parents, professionals, and concerned citizens that acceptance is becoming even more widespread. It is the mission of the National Down Syndrome Society to ensure that all people with Down syndrome are provided the opportunity to achieve their full potential in all aspects of their lives.