As a Special Olympics volunteer, I have had a lot of experience with various forms of special needs, including Down Syndrome, which is what I will discuss today. Down Syndrome effects many people. According to the National Down Syndrome Society, this syndrome is caused when an individual has a full or partial extra copy of chromosome 21. There are about 6,000 babies born with Down Syndrome each year. There are also many myths that are present with Down Syndrome. One myth is that "people with Down Syndrome cannot be active members in their community." This is untrue, as many people with Down Syndrome work and attend events in their communities. They may also obtain more than one job and can be seen doing things like every other "normal" person.

I would also like to discuss the use of the r-word. This word is very offensive to not only people with Down Syndrome but also to people with other disabilities. Even though you may be saying it in a kidding manner to one of your friends, you must be aware of who's around you and who can hear what you're saying. When you use this word toward someone with disabilities, you are implying that the person is stupid and not important. The r-word is very disrespectful and degrading. Even though that person may not emotionally show you that the r-word hurt them, you don't know what they are feeling inside. Even though you may not consider someone with Down Syndrome "normal," they still have feelings like everyone else. Instead of calling someone the r-word, try to make friends with them. These people may become the best friends that you've ever had. Through my many years of working with children with Down Syndrome, I have learned that many times, all they want is to be included and to feel "normal." So, please if you don't take anything else away from this article, please try and include someone with Down Syndrome in your next adventure and you may gain a fantastic friendship.