World Down Syndrome Day was established to focus attention on the value and potential of children and adults born with the chromosomal anomaly also known as Trisomy 21, or the mosaic or translocation versions of the genetic condition.

Events celebrating the tenth annual World Down Syndrome Day on March 21, 2009 may also include observance of the fiftieth anniversary of French researcher Jérôme Lejeune's paper published in 1959 explaining that Down syndrome is caused by a third copy of chromosome 21. Dr. Lejeune was well known among families, medical professionals and others for being a staunch defender and advocate for people with Down syndrome of all ages. Jérôme Lejeune passed away on Easter Sunday, April 3, 1994 at the age of 67.

He showed great respect and affection for those born with Down syndrome and worked throughout his life to find ways to improve the abilities and opportunities of those born with Trisomy 21 and other genetic conditions.

The Fondation Jérôme Lejeune continues to seek ways to prevent and/or treat the challenges that arise from genetic anomalies, including research on the improvement and normalization of intellectual function, as well as care and defense of individuals affected by these conditions.

Scientists and journalists touring his laboratory in Paris reported being shown slides of chromosomes under microscopes and being told by an adult lab assistant with Trisomy 21 to observe how his chromosome count was different than theirs.

Dr. Lejeune's contributions and the 50th anniversary of the publication of his original paper will also be commemorated during the August 2009 World Down Syndrome Congress in Dublin Ireland.

When we spread goodwill and accurate information about Down syndrome, the least significant part may be that it has a genetic cause, because it is everything else makes each of our loved ones with Trisomy 21 unique and wonderful that builds acceptance and opportunities in our communities. It is how our children are more alike than they are different among their mainstream peers, and how much an ordinary adult life in the mainstream of our communities means for our vision for their future and the goals they set for themselves.

It is not too late to list your organization's event celebrating World Down Syndrome Day, or to learn more about the Down Syndrome International organization and advocacy groups around the world.

Browse at your local bookstore, public library or online bookseller to find up to date information about the opportunities and accomplishments of adults and children with Down syndrome who are growing up included in the mainstream of our communities.



March 21st, World Down Syndrome Day
http://www.bellaonline.com/articles/art32534.asp

Advocating in Multicultural Communities
http://www.bellaonline.com/articles/art11304.asp

World Down Syndrome Day 2009 in Brazil>
Over 70 events,an interactive website and the launch of a comic strip character were the highlights in the celebrations of WDSD 2009 in Brazil

World Down Syndrome Day Activities
http://www.worlddownsyndromeday.org/index.htm

Celebrations around the world
http://www.worlddownsyndromeday.org/links.htm

World Down Syndrome Day Down Syndrome International
www.ds-int.org/content/world-down-syndrome-day

World Down Syndrome Congress 2009
and Synod of People with Down Syndrome

Lifelong Living and Learning
August 19th – 22nd 2009
Dublin, Ireland
http://www.wdsc2009.com/

The Jérôme Lejeune Foundation - French
The Jérôme Lejeune Foundation - French
http://www.fondationlejeune.org/
Call for Papers - English


National Catholic Bioethics Center - Jerome Lejeune
http://www.ncbcenter.org/memoriam.asp

Dr. Jerome Lejeune Dies in Paris; Found Cause of Down Syndrome
by Eric Pace - New York Times