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Buddy Walkers accept, include, and value those living with Down Syndrome

Buddy 1From Bahama islandsinfo

FREEPORT, Grand Bahama — On Saturday, May 11, 2013 supporters turned out in large numbers to raise awareness for those living with Down Syndrome (DS) on Grand Bahama. The Buddy Walk is an international walk event that promotes the inclusion and acceptance of adults and children living with DS around the world. This event, organized locally by the Grand Bahama Down Syndrome Society, attracted hundreds of walkers who took to the Mall early Saturday morning in support of this worthy cause.

Buddy 2Down Syndrome is a genetic condition which occurs when an extra copy of the 21st chromosome alters the course of physical and cognitive development.  People with Down Syndrome, despite their challenges, continue to lead fulfilling lives, going to school and work and having meaningful interpersonal relationships. This is only enhanced by events such as the Buddy Walk and the ongoing support of the community, family and friends.

Proceeds from this year’s Buddy Walk will go to assist the Grand Bahama Special Olympics Team and to produce an Early Intervention Resource Guide for Special Needs Children on Grand Bahama. According to event organizer, Wende Hanna, “Early intervention is a critical component for any type of neurological impairment, not just DS. Between the ages Buddy 3of 0-3 is a critical time in the development of the brain, and early intervention therapies such as physical, occupational and speech, during this stage of life, have a profound positive impact on future development.

“Unfortunately on Grand Bahama, we are severely limited in the services that are currently available in these areas. Many parents, if they are able, have to relocate their families, or travel to New Providence or abroad to access the services needed for their child. This is why we felt the production of this guide was so important. It will provide parents with information, exercises and tips from doctors, therapists and other parents, that they can use at home in the absence of  the recommended therapeutical  services that are available elsewhere.

“At this time we are also appealing to anyone in the Grand Bahama community who has experience or knowledge working with special needs children and is willing to assist with the production of this guide to contact us, either by visiting our website www.gbdownsyndromesociety.com and sending us a message or by telephone at 727-2105.”

The committee thanks all of the corporate and individual sponsors who so willingly and graciously contributed to this effort. Without their assistance, it would not have been possible. If you are interested in becoming a member or supporter of the Grand Bahama Down Syndrome Society, or including your loved one who has DS on our registry, please e-mail us at [email protected].

(Photos courtesy Fine Art Photography)

For more on this story go to:

http://bahamaislandsinfo.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=14687:buddy-walkers-accept-include-and-value-those-living-with-down-syndrome&catid=85:sports&Itemid=193

 

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