Old Rochester Supports World Down Syndrome Day

World Down Syndrome Day is celebrated annually on March 21. The day began in 2007 to show support and raise awareness for Down Syndrome.

The day itself was selected for a special reason. Those with Down Syndrome are born with a trisomy of the 21st chromosome, meaning they have three instead of two.

Growing up, I had some incredible opportunities to work closely with students with Down Syndrome. The East Providence High School partners program allowed students like myself to work with others who had physical and developmental disabilities.

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Over the years, I had the chance to help the students with academics, cooking (we made a lot of lasagnas), and even take them to local stores to practice money management.

One of the highlights for me was helping a young student learn to tie his shoes. It was something we practiced for weeks and when the day finally came, the smile on his face was worth it.

The encouraging inclusion classroom really made an impact. Today, we can continue to show our support those living with Down Syndrome with one simple gesture: wearing mismatched socks.

You heard right. Socks. Check out mine!

Apparently, if you were to look at the chromosomes under a microscope, they resemble a pair of socks.

Many local schools are encouraging their students and staff to get in on the fun including Old Rochester Regional High School.

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If you want to join in on the fun like I did, grab two different socks and share your support on social media with #WorldDownSyndromeDay.