March 21st marks World Down Syndrome Day, a global opportunity to raise awareness, advocate for the wellbeing and inclusion of people with Down syndrome and organise events that celebrate, support, and empower them.
For children and adults with Down syndrome living in Rarotonga, the Cook Islands Down Syndrome Association (CIDSA) has become a great point of support.
“We endeavour to support our children and families in all aspects of wellbeing,” says CIDSA Executive Board member Elizabeth Nootai.
“Together, we strive to implement strategies, educate and utilise resources to assist our families and community.”
For World Syndrome Day, CIDSA launched their Odd Socks campaign, encouraging people to wear mismatched, crazy, or colourful socks to draw attention.
Nootai says, “the idea is to start a conversation so when people ask you about your socks you can tell them, ‘I’m wearing them to raise awareness of Down syndrome.'”
Through the campaign CIDSA also aim to raise funds to purchase orthotic footwear for their children to help improve posture, balance, reduce fatigue and minimise pronation.
The Odd Socks campaign has received support from AFL team the Gold Coast Suns, local fitness groups, and workers from Tourism Cook Islands who choreographed a nifty little dance piece showcasing their odd socks.
If you’d like to support the Odd Socks campaign, head to the CIDSA Facebook page for more information.
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