Media Alert: Down Syndrome Awareness Week 9th - 17th Oct 2010

"Time to Turn the Volume UP on Down Syndrome Awareness Message"

Did you know:

* Around 70% of babies with Down syndrome are born to mothers under 35?
* People with Down syndrome are now living into their 60's and 70's?
* People with Down syndrome look more like their family members than other people with Down syndrome?
* People with Down syndrome have a broad spectrum of skills and continue learning throughout their lifetime?

One of the biggest hurdles facing people with Down syndrome and their families is community attitudes based on outdated information and stereotypes. This year's Down Syndrome Awareness Week will continue to break down the door of myth and continue the campaign for true inclusion for those born with an extra copy of chromosome 21.

This year's Awareness Week runs from the 9th until the 17th of October and aims to encourage the community to celebrate diversity and see the value in all people.

Special events this year include the Down Syndrome Awards & Gala Ball, Primary Colour Day and Buddy Walk.

Interviews are available with DSAQ Patron, Chris Bombolas.

- Ends -

For further information, or to arrange an interview, please contact:
Rachel Carr
Information Support Coordinator
Down Syndrome Association of Queensland Inc.
07 3356 6655
[email protected]

About the Down Syndrome Association of Qld Inc.

The Down Syndrome Association of Qld Inc. is a not-for-profit organisation formed in 1976 as a self-help information and support group. The Mission of the DSAQ is to support, advocate for and empower Queensland children and adults with Down syndrome, so they can be valued and contributing members of the community, as is their right.

About Chris Bombolas

Chris has 25 years extensive experience in television; with Channel 9, on radio with 4BC, 4BK and Triple M, with newspapers and magazines. He has been a commentator at the football, the 1998 Kuala Lumpur Commonwealth Games and performed in and produced the Queensland Edition of the Footy Show. From 2006-2009 Chris was the State Member for Chatsworth, Parliamentary Secretary for Police, Corrective Services, Treasury (Gaming), Local Government and Sport. Presently he is the Chairman of A-League Football team the Brisbane Roar and continues to do freelance television work for Channel 7. Chris has a nephew with Down syndrome and is passionate about helping the Down syndrome Association of Queensland Inc to continue creating awareness within the community.


SOURCE: Down Syndrome Association of Queensland Inc