Raising Awareness on World Down Syndrome Day

On the 21st of March, communities around the world recognised World Down Syndrome Day to raise awareness for the inclusion and wellbeing of people living with Down Syndrome.

Down Syndrome (or Trisomy 21) is a naturally occurring chromosomal arrangement that has always been a part of the human condition. The chromosomal arrangement occurs in approximately 1 in 800 live births and is universally present across all racial, gender and socioeconomic lines. Down Syndrome usually causes varying degrees of intellectual and physical disability and associated medical issues.

At Afford, we focus on ability. We have a community of talented and inspirational individuals who challenge traditional norms to showcase the remarkable societal and global contribution of people living with Down Syndrome.

Dougie is one such individual. For many years Dougie has loved art. His passion for art goes well beyond just a hobby or a passing interest. Art is something that Dougie uses to express himself, to represent his understanding of the world around him and it is something that makes him truly happy.

His Dolphin Cove home in Penrith is full of the vibrant colours and patterns of his artworks. They have been created over many years with passion and an enduring desire for artistic perfection.

With support from lifestyle assistants at his home, Dougie attends art classes every week to progress his skills even further and connect with others who share his enthusiasm for creativity.

Dougie’s artworks are renowned among the Afford community as masterpieces and the art community agrees.

Dougie’s recent galactic inspired artwork received recognition in the 2020 Challenge Community Services Art Competition. With ‘Out of this World’ as his inspiration, Dougie spread paint across a blank canvas and used a hair drier and other methods to create a dazzling piece of art.

His artwork won the People’s Choice Award in the People with Disability ages 50+ category and was showcased in an exhibition at Ray Walsh House in Tamworth earlier this year.

Dougie is one of the many individuals in the Afford community who are realising their life dreams and goals as part of the Afford community.

As part of the Afford Lifestyle, Dougie has the support to explore his interests and achieve all that he wants in life.