what is Down syndrome?
This is a karyotype, a visual representation of a person's complete set of chromosomes.
Typically, there are 2 copies of each chromosome, but you may notice that this karyotype has a 3rd copy of the 21st chromosome.
This extra chromosome is what causes Down syndrome! Down syndrome is caused by a full or partial 3rd copy of the 21st chromosome.
what can this extra chromosome lead to?
not every person with Down syndrome will have all of these characteristics, but they have been found to be more common in people with Down syndrome
cognitive
delays
intellectual disability
speech delay
lower processing speed
shorter attention span
inhibitory deficits
physical
characteristics
low muscle tone
short stature
almond-shaped eyes
brushfield spots
single palmar crease
medical
challenges
heart defects
leukemia
vision loss
hearing loss
respiratory issues
the beauty of
Down syndrome
In the Down syndrome community, we call ourselves
the lucky few because we feel so lucky to get to love someone with Down syndrome! There is something really beautiful about the way that people with Down syndrome see the world. They offer us a glimpse into the authenticity and love that we could all use more of.
Some people with Down syndrome are able to go to college, get married, live on their own, run businesses, advocate on large stages, and more. Other people with Down syndrome will not be able to do these things, but will have their own set of abilities and challenges. Regardless of abilities, levels of independence, or worldly accomplishments, each person should be seen as worthy and valued just as they are! Don't let one extra chromosome blind you from the gifts that people with Down syndrome offer!
If you want to dive deeper into Down syndrome, the National Down Syndrome Society has compiled an amazing page with all of the latest research. Visit ndss.org/about to learn more.