New Diagnosis

Down syndrome is a genetic condition that occurs in one in every 691 births. It is the most frequently occurring chromosomal condition and is found in people of all races and economic levels. More than 400,000 people in the United States have Down syndrome.

A few of the common physical traits of Down syndrome are low muscle tone, small stature, an upward slant to the eyes, and a single deep crease across the center of the palm. Every person with Down syndrome is a unique individual and may possess these characteristics to different degrees or not at all.

People with Down syndrome have an increased risk for a medical conditions such as congenital heart defects, respiratory and hearing problems, Alzheimer’s disease, childhood leukemia, and thyroid conditions. However, many of these conditions are now treatable, so most people with Down syndrome lead healthy lives. Life expectancy for people with Down syndrome has increased dramatically in recent decades – from 25 in 1983 to 60 today.

People with Down syndrome experience cognitive delays, but the effect is usually mild to moderate and is not indicative of the many strengths and talents that each individual possesses. Children with Down syndrome learn to sit, walk, talk, play, and do most other activities; only somewhat later than their peers without Down syndrome.

Quality educational programs, a stimulating home environment, good health care, and positive support from family, friends and the community enable people with Down syndrome to develop their full potential and lead fulfilling lives. People with Down syndrome attend school and work, and participate in decisions that concern them, and contribute to society in many wonderful ways.

Down Syndrome for New Parents: What to Know During the First Year: See the video here

Facts About Down Syndrome

• Down syndrome is the most commonly occurring chromosomal condition.
• One in every 691 babies in the United States is born with Down syndrome.
• There are more than 400,000 people living with Down syndrome in the United States.
• Down syndrome occurs in people of all races and economic levels.
• A few of the common physical traits of Down syndrome are low muscle tone, small stature, an upward slant to the eyes, and a single deep crease across the center of the palm. Every person with Down syndrome is a unique individual and may possess these characteristics to different degrees or not at all.
• Life expectancy for people with Down syndrome has increased dramatically in recent decades – from 25 in 1983 to 60 today.
• People with Down syndrome attend school, work, participate in decisions that affect them, and contribute to society in many wonderful ways.
• All people with Down syndrome experience cognitive delays, but the effect is usually mild to moderate and is not indicative of the many strengths and talents that each individual possesses.
• Quality educational programs, a stimulating home environment, good health care, and positive support from family, friends and the community enable people with Down syndrome to develop their full potential and lead fulfilling lives.

Our First Connections Program connects our experienced parents of children with Down syndrome to parents with a prenatal diagnosis or with children newly diagnosed with Down syndrome. Your first connection is your “first friend” within our organization. Your connection will answer your questions honestly and will do their best to describe the joys and challenges they have experienced in their own personal journeys while supporting you every step of the way.

We can visit with you and your family at the hospital or at home, serving as a shoulder to lean on, a voice of experience, and a source of current information. We can provide all new parents a packet of up-to-date information about Down syndrome and resources available to you and your child. If we don’t have the answers to your questions, we’ll direct you to someone who may. We’re also here to listen with compassion, never judgment. Not every parent in First Connections has the same story or has found the same solution, but we have all had the same concerns at one time or another.

What We Can Share with You...

All of us on the First Connections Team agree that regardless of what our first reaction to the words “Down syndrome,” were at the time, our children have taught us that they bring boundless love, humanity and inspiration to our lives.
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No family should feel alone.
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Our services are free and confidential.
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Contact us at 405-600-9981, or fill out a request form.

D.A.D.S. - Dads Appreciating Down Syndrome

D.A.D.S. Group meets on Thursday once a month. Sign up as a DSACO Member to receive updates on D.A.D.S. meetings and DSACO’s monthly newsletter HERE.

‍Dads Appreciating Down Syndrome Group is a group specifically designed for dads to be able to meet, build community with one another and support each other. This is a time for them to share resources, ideas and strategies with one another while also enjoying time with other dads.

DSACO’s D.A.D.S. group’s mission is simple…

To assist and support, through fellowship and action, the fathers and families of individuals with Down syndrome.

The three foundational pillars of D.A.D.S. are Support, Action and Fellowship. You’ll find us out in the community coaching our kids’ sports teams, participating in our children’s IEPs, volunteering at local
Down syndrome fund-raising events, and even sponsoring fund-raising events of our own.

The cornerstone of D.A.D.S. groups is the monthly meeting where members come together to share insights and experiences. Face it: there are certain responsibilities that generally fall on the shoulders of the father. Having a child with special needs often affects how we approach those responsibilities.

We invite expert speakers to discuss medical, educational, financial, social, and any other issues that affect our children’s lives. And of course, we share stories and experiences that are unique to fathers of children with Down syndrome.

Parent 2 Parent Support Groups

DSACO offers regular meetings to provide information and support for parents and families of children with Down syndrome. These meetings are designed for parents and family members to be able to meet, build community and support each other while sharing experiences and creating new friendships. This group is parent lead and meets quarterly to discuss topics that are common to our families with children of all ages.