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Down Syndrome

Down syndrome is the term for a set of cognitive and physical symptoms that can result from having an extra copy or part of a copy of chromosome 21.

Insights Into Down Syndrome … from an Expert

During Down Syndrome Awareness Month—and every month—Special Olympics athletes like David Egan are banishing myths and leading the way to inclusion.
2 Min Read

A Sister Looks Back on her Family Legacy

Chicago Mayor Richard J. Daley meets with Eunice Kennedy Shriver, William McFetridge, and Special Olympics athletes, including Kevin O’Brien, before the first International Special Olympics Summer Games in 1968.
5 Min Read

“Born This Way” is a Win for Inclusion at the 2018 Emmy Awards

The cast of A&E’s reality series “Born This Way” is breaking barriers as one of the most inclusive shows on television.
1 Min Read

Jamie Foxx Learned ‘How to Live’ from Sister, a Special Olympics Athlete

DeOndra Dixon, long time Special Olympics athlete, inspires everyone she meets, especially her Oscar-winning brother, Jamie Foxx.
1 Min Read

Iraqi Athlete Aims High at MENA Regional Games

Growing up, Mohamed Kheir Allah dealt with isolation and stigma. Find out what he has learned about himself by competing.
1 Min Read

How Andy Miyares Found Peace in the Pool

Being different never kept him out of the pool; in fact, it's what got him in the water in the first place.
1 Min Read

Katy Wilson

Katy Wilson, 35, has won gold in gymnastics, and served as a Sargent Shriver International Global Messenger. She has traveled the globe to share the message and spirit of Special Olympics and tell everyone that people with Down syndrome can do anything—given high expectations and respect.
1 Min Read

How David Egan Found His Voice Through Sports

David Egan has always dreamed big. Learn how he is changing attitudes toward people with intellectual disabilities.
1 Min Read

What's Up With Down Syndrome? Meet David Egan

David served as a Joseph P. Kennedy Jr. Foundation Public Policy Fellow, working with the powerful House Ways and Committee.

How Lani De Mello Defied a Doctor's Predictions

"She’s never going to achieve anything." That's what Lani's mom was told by a doctor. Watch to learn how Lani proved him (very) wrong.