Medical Advances Mean Life With Down Syndrome Is Now Full of Possibilities

When many people hear the words down syndrome they picture a significantly disabled person with a poor quality of life. Advances in medicine mean that stereotype no longer applies. Advocates for people with down syndrome are trying to educate the public on the their abilities

"The lives of the 250,000 Americans with Down syndrome today are radically different than a generation ago, says Brian Skotko, co-director of the Down syndrome program at Massachusetts General Hospital."  Medical advances and educational supports have lead to increased life expectancy and better quality of life for those with Down syndrome.

A survey done by Skotko showed that 99% of those with Down syndrome were happy with their lives.  Additionally, the survey found that 88% of siblings felt that having a person with Down syndrome as their brother or sister had made them better people.

Although those with Down syndrome still face significant medical and educational challenges, it is important that the public perception of these individuals accurately reflect their abilities.

For more on this story and the source of the above quote please go to:

http://www.news-leader.com/article/20130507/LIFE04/305070037/life-with-downs-syndrome?odyssey=nav%7Chead

  

©Mary M Conneely T/A Advocacy in Action