World Down Syndrome Day

By Lori Larsen

On March 21, join others in the community and around the world recognizing World Down Syndrome Day.

The 21st day of March was chosen to represent the uniqueness of the triplication of the 21st chromosome which causes Down syndrome and every year World Down Syndrome Day is honoured to create awareness about Down syndrome.

“In 2015, our family was blessed with identical twins, Eli and Isaac, who both rock that extra chromosome,” said Camrosian Mindy Felgate, mother of Eli and Isaac.

(with the help and support of so many community members) to put on an art exhibit,” said Mindy. “The World Through Almond Shaped Eyes exhibit will showcase the talent of individuals with Down Syndrome. It will give just a glimpse into the incredible world of individuals with Down Syndrome and celebrate all the beauty and uniqueness of each person.”

The exhibit will be displayed at Fika Coffeehouse (in the back building through the yellow door) on March 21 and 22, from 11 a.m to 2 p.m. and 3:30 until 5 p.m. each day and will feature pieces from local

“They have opened our world and our eyes to a beautiful and unique perspective. Eli and Isaac radiate love; they always have a hug, high five, or fist bump for everyone they meet, and meeting new friends is their favorite thing to do.”

Filled with energy and an unbridled love for all the wonders of their world, Eli and Isaac bring brightness and joy to their family and friends, and everyone they meet, every day.

“We are definitely the lucky few,” said Mindy. “We celebrate them and all the other amazing humans who rock that extra chromosome every day, but especially on March 21.”

The World Down Syndrome Day 2023 Theme spreads a global message of “With Us Not For Us”, which according to the World Down Syndrome Day website, supports a human rights-based approach of viewing people with disabilities as having the right to be treated fairly and have the same opportunities as everyone else, working “with” others to improve their lives.

“This year, in celebration of World Down Syndrome Day, we have chosen artists including individuals from Camrose Association for Community Living (CAFCL) and Centra Cam.

“When Mindy asked CAFCL to be part of the Art Exhibit we were more than happy to jump at the chance,” said Camrose Association for Community Living Public Relations manager Cherilyn Sharkey. “As an organization, we love to help spread awareness to the community and any way we can show inclusion.”

Sharkey suggested another fun and easy way to show your support on World Down Syndrome Day, is to get out those crazy socks and don them with pride on March 21. “We would love for you to share your pictures on social media and tag Camrose Association For Community Living on Facebook and #cafcl on Instagram.”

Then come out on March 21 or 22 and see the world through another’s eyes and experience their take on colour, light and how art imitates life, or don your craziest pair of socks, mix it up wear two different socks, and encourage others to do the same in support of World Down Syndrome Day.