About Down Syndrome

The Down Syndrome Footprint goal is to help parents, friends and loved ones celebrate these special people that influence our lives. Understanding the facts about Down syndrome is the first step in meeting the opportunities and challenges that Down syndrome presents.

Down syndrome occurs where there is a genetic alteration of the chromosomes; it is the most common chromosomal condition. Specifically, these individuals have three copies of the 21st chromosome, rather than two copies. Currently, there are more than 400,000 United States citizens living with Down syndrome.

Those with Down syndrome tend to have physical traits of low muscle tone, small stature and an upward eye slant. Some children born with Down syndrome have an extra-large space between their big toe and the second toe. It is this medical marker that inspired the footprint symbol that Down Syndrome Footprint utilizes today. Even with these physical traits and potential health complications, those with Down syndrome have greatly increased their life expectancy.

One fact that cannot be ignored: those with Down syndrome are people first. It is this viewpoint that has guided Down Syndrome Footprint in its business approach. As the company moves forward, it is this belief that will direct company principles well into the future.