Listen: Durban mom talks about living with a child who has Down syndrome
Ahead of National Down Syndrome Day, Jane caught with a KZN mom whose child has Down syndrome to find out what life is like for her and her family.
Listen to Jane's interview with Jess Roberts, or read the details under the podcast.
October is Down Syndrome Awareness Month, and what better time to use this as an opportunity to educate ourselves on something that many have differing views about.
According to Down Syndrome South Africa, it is described as "the most common and naturally occurring chromosomal genetic condition and is the largest single cause of intellectual disabilities". It occurs when an individual has a full or partial chromosome. It is this added chromosome which alters the cause of development both physically and intellectually.
It is also reported that in SA itself, one in 500 babies are diagnosed each year with Down syndrome.
Read: Six lessons I learned from raising a child with Down syndrome
20th October marks National Down Syndrome Day, which was created in an effort to raise awareness and advance the rights of all persons with Down syndrome. This year, the Down Syndrome South Africa's awareness campaign is themed, "I am a Person First – Inclusion for All".
Ahead of the day, Jane had the opportunity to sit down with Jess Roberts, a KZN mom whose son, Luke, has Down syndrome. During the interview, Jess spoke about the emotions she went through when she realised that Luke would be different to other kids, and also shared some of the important lessons that her extraordinary son has taught her.
Jess is married to John, and in addition to Luke, they also share a nine-month-old beautiful daughter named Holly.
If you're okay with your child, then everyone else is going to be okay with it
Jane also had the chance to hear from Cliff, who is the manager of the Sunfield Home in Howick which houses adult individuals who have Down syndrome. According to their website, the home cares for and houses 111 mentally challenged residents between the ages of 18 to 73.
Read: Child with down syndrome covers Whitney Houston's 'I have nothing'
Listen to what Cliff had to tell Jane, or read the details in the podcast below:
If you would like to learn more about the Sunfield Home, visit their website here.
To make a difference on National Down Syndrome Day, the organisation has asked the public to wear their 'Jeans' on the day, or make a contribution of any kind.
To find out more about the various celebrations, awareness projects in and around KZN concerning Down Syndrome, or if you'd like more information, please contact Angie Govindsami on 031 464 2055, or email [email protected].
Alternatively, you can visit the Down Syndrome South Africa website here.