LaFayette, GA – Walker County Commissioner Shannon Whitfield issued a proclamation recently designating March 21, 2019 as “Down Syndrome Day” in Walker County.
Residents are encouraged to wear brightly colored socks and share pictures of those socks on social media with the hashtag #LotsOfSocks joining a global effort to get the world talking about Down syndrome.
Mar 21! This Thursday!! Will you join us in wearing wild socks? #LotsofSocks https://t.co/NiLNeoRbzX
— Sheryl Tughan (@SherylTughan) March 18, 2019
March 21st has been selected to signify the uniqueness of the triplication of the 21st chromosome which results in an individual having Down syndrome
Each year, one in every 691 children are born with Down syndrome in the United States, representing approximately 6,000 births nationwide and 90 to 100 births in Georgia
While research and early intervention have resulted in dramatic improvements in the length and quality of life of those affected, more investigation is needed into the causes and treatment of Down syndrome
People with Down syndrome possess a wide range of abilities and are active participants in educational, occupational, social and recreational circles in our community.
The citizens of Walker County are urged to support efforts enabling people with Down syndrome to live productive lives and achieve their potential.