Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre (SLBMC) joins the global community in observing World Down Syndrome Day on Saturday, March 21, with a series of activities aimed at raising awareness, promoting inclusion, and celebrating the vibrant lives of individuals with Down syndrome.
𝗥𝗼𝗰𝗸 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗦𝗼𝗰𝗸𝘀 & 𝗪𝗲𝗲𝗸𝗲𝗻𝗱 𝗖𝗲𝗹𝗲𝗯𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀: 𝗦𝘁𝗮𝗿𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗧𝗼𝗱𝗮𝘆, 𝗙𝗿𝗶𝗱𝗮𝘆, 𝗠𝗮𝗿𝗰𝗵 𝟮𝟬
To kick off a full weekend of awareness, SLBMC staff are participating in the global “Rock Your Socks” campaign today, Friday, March 20. We invite the entire community to join us today and throughout the weekend by wearing brightly colored or mismatched socks. Because chromosomes are shaped like socks, this fun, visible gesture serves as a powerful symbol of acceptance and individuality.
“World Down Syndrome Day is a reminder that every individual deserves to be seen, valued, and included,” said Dr. Saleem Hughes, Chair of the Pediatrics Department at SLBMC. “The ‘Rock Your Socks’ campaign is a simple way to start conversations and challenge perceptions. We encourage everyone to wear their socks proudly and help us spread awareness across Antigua and Barbuda.”
𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗺𝘂𝗻𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗘𝘃𝗲𝗻𝘁𝘀 & 𝗣𝗮𝗿𝘁𝗻𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗵𝗶𝗽𝘀
SLBMC is proud to highlight and support several community-led activities taking place over the weekend:
𝗔𝗻𝗻𝘂𝗮𝗹 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁𝘀 𝗗𝗮𝘆 (𝗧𝗼𝗱𝗮𝘆, 𝗠𝗮𝗿𝗰𝗵 𝟮𝟬): SLBMC is collaborating with the Adele School, the Victory Centre, and CHATS for a day of play. This event provides a joyful space for children of all abilities to connect and showcase their strengths.
𝗔𝗻𝗻𝘂𝗮𝗹 𝗙𝘂𝗻 𝗥𝗶𝗱𝗲 (𝗦𝘂𝗻𝗱𝗮𝘆, 𝗠𝗮𝗿𝗰𝗵 𝟮𝟮): Hosted in collaboration with the Antigua & Barbuda Cycling Federation and Good Humans Inc., this event promotes health, unity, and inclusion. The public is encouraged to ride along in support of our community.
“Collaboration is key to creating supportive environments,” added Dr. Hughes. “Events like the Fun Ride and Sports Day allow us to come together, celebrate our children, and reinforce the message that inclusion matters. These partnerships remind families they are not alone.”
SLBMC remains committed to building a society where every individual is valued and supported.