Parents and children are seen on World Down Syndrome Day at
Angel Home in Signal Angami in Dimapur on Friday.
- DIMAPUR — The
Angel Home Rehabilitation Centre and Blessed Bonding have jointly observed
‘World Down Syndrome Day’ on Friday on theme “Improve our support system” at
Angel Home in Signal Angami, Dimapur.
- According to Wikipedia, Down syndrome is a genetic condition
caused by the presence of an extra copy of chromosome 21, leading to delays in
physical and mental development and an increased risk for certain medical
issues.
- Delivering the keynote address, director of Angel Home,
Sister Anna, stressed on urgent need for better support system in healthcare,
education, transportation, protection and social support for families with
persons of Down syndrome.
- Emphasising the role of parents as caretaker, she stated
that it was important for parents to get involved with the children and their
activities by praising them when they do something new and speaking with them
clearly and calmly so that they learn.
- “Getting more involved in their activities instead of giving
instructions, doing things together as a caretaker, focusing on their strength
rather than what they are not able to do so is vital for their growth,” she
emphasised.
- She also implored upon the parents and caretakers to
encourage them to be active and healthy, lookout for changes in their behavior
as they are not able to express themselves, to take them for regular checkups.
Besides, she also emphasised on speech and language therapy including
physiotherapy.
- The director of Angel Home accentuated patience and empathy
as the utmost need from the caretaker.
- Shuiching K Lasuh, who is a member of Blessed Bonding,
shared her testimony.
- “We reached out for support but did not find any,” she said
and expressed gratitude to the organisers for providing a platform to discuss
on the pertinent issues.
- “We all have challenges, don't dwell on the why and how but
accept it while not feeling victimised” Lasuh advocated.
