By: Alberta Asanewa Dwirah
As part of global efforts to raise awareness, October is recognized as Down Syndrome Awareness Month. To mark the occasion, the Down Syndrome Association of Ghana (DSAG) organized a health screening and family fun day for individuals with Down syndrome and their families. The event provided a welcoming platform for families to connect, share experiences, and support one another.
Speaking at the event, the Executive Director of DSAG, Agnes Teiko Nyemi-Tei, called for comprehensive healthcare support for children living with Down syndrome and their families. She noted that many of these children experience multiple health complications that require ongoing medical attention and specialized care.
She appealed to the government and healthcare providers to ensure accessible and affordable medical services, emphasizing that such interventions would ease the emotional and financial strain on parents and caregivers.
“Most of us do not have partners because we lose them after giving birth to children with special needs. It becomes our sole responsibility as mothers and caregivers. We need comprehensive healthcare that will ease the pain and burden on families.” She stressed.
Madam Nyemi-Tei encouraged parents to show love and support to their children, stressing that individuals with Down syndrome often have mild to moderate intellectual ability and can thrive when given early intervention and encouragement.
“It’s not an easy journey, but with love, acceptance, and early support, life becomes easier. These children can grow, learn, and achieve much more than society often expects,” she added.
Also addressing the gathering, Pediatrician at Greater Accra Regional hospital (Ridge Hospital), Dr. Brew Yvonne advised parents and caregivers to begin preparing children with Down syndrome early for adolescence and independent living. She explained that the adolescent stage presents physical, emotional, and behavioral challenges that require deliberate guidance.
“Adolescence is a challenging period for all young people, but particularly for those with Down syndrome due to changes in weight, hormones, and emotions. When our children are young, they are very affectionate and easy to manage, but as they grow older, their needs change. We must prepare them to live in a society where parents may not always be present.” she said.
A father of a child with Down syndrome also shared his personal experience, urging parents to embrace love, acceptance, and commitment rather than fear or stigma.
He recounted that his son was diagnosed with Down syndrome at the Tema General Hospital. Though the news initially brought uncertainty, he said acceptance transformed their journey into one of hope and purpose.
“Having a child with Down syndrome is not an easy journey. But once you accept your child for who they are, doors of opportunity begin to open. People will always talk, but in the end, that child is yours, and you are responsible for their wellbeing.” He added
He further advised parents not to be influenced by public misconceptions, clarifying that having one child with Down syndrome does not mean future children will have the same condition.
Down syndrome is a genetic condition that occurs when a baby is born with an extra copy of chromosome 21. This additional chromosome affects a child’s mental and physical development and can increase the risk of certain health complications.
The condition, also known as trisomy 21, varies greatly among individuals. While some children may require frequent medical attention, others live relatively healthy lives. Down syndrome happens by chance, cannot be prevented, and is not caused by anything a parent did or did not do. With early detection and proper medical care, most health concerns can be managed effectively. Today, many resources exist to support individuals with Down syndrome and their families.
The Down Syndrome Association of Ghana continues to provide counseling, information, and support for parents and caregivers across the country, promoting inclusion, awareness, and dignity for persons living with Down syndrome.
