Down syndrome must not be seen as a disabling factor- Rehab Centre

Nov 04, 2018 News

By Tracey T. Squires
The social stigmatism that persons with disabilities face is great, more so, in countries whose socio-cultural atmospheres have not yet adjusted to the concept of an inclusionary society. In Guyana, individuals with Down syndrome have experienced years of rejection and labeling from society.
With just over 50,000 living with disabilities and a high percentage of those persons having Down syndrome, the Ptolemy Reid Rehabilitation centre has related that society needs to stop placing limitations on persons with this syndrome.
In recognition of last month being Down syndrome Awareness month, the centre raised awareness to cast a more positive light on persons with the disability. The centre currently provides free services for persons affected by Down syndrome.
Twenty-six year-old Roderick Griffith is just one example of how the centre has affected the lives of persons living with Down syndrome in a positive way. Griffith, who attends school while employed at the centre, has defied the narrative that society projects of individuals with disabilities. He explained that his job entails assisting children who are wheel chair users, doing laundry, among other duties.
It was quite clear that Griffith was pleased with being a resident at the centre as he expressed his contentment with a smile. Deoranie Babulall- an occupational therapist at the centre explained that Griffith, one of the older residents, has benefitted greatly from being there. She added that acceptance and inclusion act as major determinants in the lives of persons with disabilities. Babulall added that social interaction and early intervention for children with the syndrome could translate into many success stories.
In an interview with the centre’s Physical Therapist, Keenan Benjamin; and Occupational Therapist, Deoranie Babulall, the concept and challenges of Down syndrome were truly brought out. It was explained that Down syndrome, which is genetically acquired, can affect anyone and is due to the transfer of an extra chromosome, more specifically chromosome 21.
The condition is caused due to an error in cell division, and can be identified in babies with flattened facial profiles, short necks, poor muscle tone and slanting eyes. Whilst the condition is genetically acquired, parents who have had a child with the syndrome are much more likely to have another with it. The rehabilitation centre provides support for these children through social, emotional and physiological aspects.
One of the many major challenges for children with Down syndrome is delayed developmental growth. Children who have this condition are often posed with major developmental issues in their growth, such as weakened muscle tone, motor perception issues, speech impediments and cognizance.
Benjamin explained that a child starting life with a disability that purportedly places them at a disadvantage may feel as though they are somewhat barred from performing at maximum capacity. This, he explained, is perpetuated by society when individuals choose to label these children.
Benjamin added that children with Down syndrome are quite capable of expressing themselves and communicating. He further added that the children, who are quite capable of learning despite cognitive deficits, might grasp concepts through artistic learning, or music incorporated teaching.
The centre offers a support group for parents who may be facing challenges raising children with the syndrome whilst its focus remains on celebrating the abilities of these children rather than their disabilities. Officials at the centre are urging the public to do so as well.

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