When Sarah Palin ran for the position of Vice President of the United States, her son, little Tryg focused attention on a condition which afflicts about one in every 800 babies. Tryg has Down's syndrome, a congenital disorder causing mental and physical disabilities.
The syndrome is caused by a problem with the chromosomes. Chromosomes are threadlike structures inside every cell of the body. They are made up of genes. Most people have 23 pairs of chromosomes, for a total of 46. A baby with Down's syndrome has an extra chromosome, to make a total of 47, or one chromosome has an extra part. It is nobody's fault. It is purely accidental.
Down's syndrome children will have learning problems. Intelligence levels range from low normal to very retarded (slow to learn) . It's impossible to tell at birth just how smart a baby will be. With therapy, many can grow up to have jobs and live independently.
.
Physical problems are also common in these babies. About half will be born with heart defects which can usually be repaired by surgery.
They may have trouble swallowing, or there may be blockages in their stomachs or intestines. Once these are surgically corrected, the children usually have no further trouble in these areas.
Some Down's children may have eye problems, such as cataracts or crossed eyes, and their hearing may be adversely affected. They are more likely to get colds, infections which affect lungs and breathing, and the infections may last longer. Some develop leukaemia, a type of cancer. They sometimes have poor muscle tone and may be loose-jointed.
In many important ways, children with Down's syndrome are very much like other children. They have the same moods and emotions; they like to play with toys and learn new things. They will learn to walk, talk and be toilet trained but at a slower pace than other children. It is hard for them to remember new skills. Parents need to exercise patience and celebrate every new achievement, no matter how small.
These babies have the same needs as all babies: they need to be held, cuddled, talked to, and read to and loved. They need to be fed and bathed, dressed and have their diapers changed. The most important experiences for a child with Down's syndrome come from being a member of a happy, loving, active family If they feel loved and secure, they will grow up feeling good about themselves.
Although it is beneficial for them to have positive experiences with different friends and family members, as with all babies and young children, regular routines are important. Down's syndrome children may find change exceptionally hard. Doing things the same way, at the same time every day can be helpful.
Early and adequate health care is imperative. It can help protect Down's syndrome children from most risks associated with the condition. Physical therapy sessions may be necessary every week to help build up muscle tone and coordination. Later on, speech therapy and occupational therapy may help develop language skills, social skills and eye-hand coordination.
Little Tryg Palin and his family are fortunate to live at this time, in this part of the world, where many children with Down's Syndrome go to regular schools and may attend regular classes. They may play sports, and participate in activities such as music lessons or dance classes. They sometimes go on to a job, such as helping in an office, a restaurant or a grocery store. They are usually noted for their enthusiasm, reliability, and dedication.
His mom, Sarah, is to be commended. First of all, she has given him the most important gift of all, the gift of life. She proudly included him in public appearances with her family, thereby raising public awareness of the presence of these special children among us. Moreover, she promised, if elected, to be an advocate for all special needs children and their parents. This would be a noble and praiseworthy goal for every politician seeking public office to adopt.
No comments:
Post a Comment