Thousands of people including some residents of the Elsie Gaches Village (EGV) participated in the Happy Walk 2016 as part of the annual celebration of the National Down Syndrome Consciousness Month which carries the theme, “All for Down: A Day with Family and Friends” held at SMX Convention Center, Mall of Asia Complex, Pasay City on February 21, 2016.

The event was graced by the delegation from the United States embassy led by Ambassador Philip Goldberg. Goldberg said that the US government has always advocated for the acceptance and inclusivity of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) in the communities and society. He is also joined by the SM President Hans Sy and officials of the Down Syndrome Associations of the Philippines, Inc. (DSAPI) during the walk.

Down Syndrome, or Trisomy 21, is a condition in which an extra genetic material called chromosome 21 causes delays in the mental and physical development of a child. There is no known cause or cure but 80 percent of babies with the condition are born to mothers aged 35 years and below. Data shows that one in every 800 Filipino children was being affected by this disorder.

Through this activity, the residents of the EGV were able to know more about their condition. Their socialization also broadens as they interacted with other children. Moreover, this became opportunity for them to discover something about themselves and develop their confidence in dealing with other people.

Elsie Gaches Village is a residential care facility that serves mentally challenged persons with underlying medical problems. ###