World Down Syndrome Day is annually observed on 21 March to raise public awareness of Down Syndrome (DS), a congenital disorder caused by having an extra 21st chromosome (3 copies rather than 2 copies of chromosome number 21).
That is called “Trisomy 21”. The extra chromosome occurs by chance.
Most people have 23 pairs of chromosomes, for a total of 46. People with Down Syndrome have an extra chromosome (47 instead of 46). DS is typically associated with delay in physical growth, characteristic facial features and mild to moderate intellectual disability.
Why that date: 21/3 month (March)
Why mismatched, FUN, different colour socks? The idea was created because chromosomes are shaped “like socks” and people with Down’s Syndrome have an extra chromosome. But wear not just any socks, brightly coloured socks, mismatched socks, long socks, printed socks, one sock. Maybe 3 three socks, one for each chromosome.”
Socks are socks, they serve a purpose regardless of how they look. Just as people with DS have a purpose in society regardless of their appearance.
Grenada Down Syndrome Association
