The fight continues to raise awareness for Down syndrome, as Nov. 1–7 is National Down Syndrome Awareness Week, and Darlene Bertin is leading the charge in Athabasca.
Bertin, whose 12-year-old son, Connor, has Down syndrome, founded the Athabasca Blue Genes Foundation four years ago “to help and support other parents and families with children with Down syndrome.”
Kicking off National Down Syndrome Awareness Week, this Friday (Nov. 1), there will be a “buddy walk” at Whispering Hills Primary School in Athabasca around midday; the time is still being finalized.
On Nov. 7, Landing Trail Intermediate School will have its third annual buddy walk.
The Athabasca buddy walks are open to the public.
Bertin spoke at assemblies at both schools yesterday (Oct. 28) about the foundation, upcoming activities and Down syndrome.
She will also be participating with her son Connor in the ninth annual Edmonton Down Syndrome Society Buddy Walk on Nov. 3 at Hawrelak Park.
On Nov. 8, the foundation encourages all to “Be Seen in Blue Jeans” to support the Athabasca Blue Genes Foundation. Community members are asked to wear blue jeans. Blue is the official colour of Down syndrome awareness.
The Athabasca Blue Genes Foundation currently has 18 members, including three children with Down syndrome and their families.
The foundation’s mission, according to Bertin, is “to support our children with Down syndrome so that they can achieve their highest potential while providing them and their families with the necessary resources.”
Down syndrome is a condition naturally caused by the chromosomal arrangement prior to birth, according to Bertin. It affects 1 in 800 births in Canada, according to the Canadian Down Syndrome Society.
But Bertin said people with Down syndrome still have a good learning capacity.
For students, Bertin said “it may take longer for them to (learn), but they may need the lessons and subjects modified to meet the individual’s learning needs.”
She said it’s also important to educate the public on Down syndrome; inclusion is an important aspect of enhancing the quality of life of people with Down syndrome.
“We just want to let people know that all people are valued and can be fully participating individuals in the community,” said Bertin. “Give them the chance; give them the support.”
