Funny, brave, kind.. just like everyone else
Scots Down’s kids star in film aimed at educating UK pupils about syndrome
SEVEN Scots kids with Down’s syndrome star in a touching new video which will help educate pupils in the UK about the condition.
It aims to dispel myths and negative connotations attached to Down’s.
It was produced by the charity I Am Me Scotland, and includes a short film and an animation narrated by kids with the syndrome.
Jade Lennon, from Irvine, who is mum to Chloe, is “incredibly proud” her daughter is part of the project, saying: “At just eight, to help educate her peers about something that’s a part of her is amazing.
“As Chloe was learning her lines for the animation, it allowed her to learn more about herself and ask more questions about Down’s.
“Change starts with younger generations and I love that Chloe is doing a small part in helping to shape this generation’s mindset around Down’s.”
In the video, Chloe says: “We’re all different, unique individuals, with likes and dislikes. However, we do have one thing in common; well apart from all being amazing, we’d like to tell you about Down’s.”
Stacey Corrigan, from Paisley, and mum to Daniel, hopes the video will go a long way to removing the stigma attached to Down’s.
She said: “I am so proud and feel privileged for Daniel to be part of this lesson. It is so important for us that Daniel is able to show others his Down’s syndrome doesn’t define him, it’s just a small part of what makes him Daniel.
“He is a funny, kind, compassionate, brave little boy who likes to play with his friends, to sing and dance but can also be a bit stubborn and naughty.”
About 4500 people have Down’s syndrome in Scotland, with about 70 babies born with the syndrome – which occurs when a baby is born with an extra chromosome – every year. The video also aims to celebrate the abilities and achievements of kids with Down’s and the joy they bring to family and friends.
The film also stars Elsa, 10, as well as Rian, six, of Inchinnan, Renfrewshire, who reveals he loves to dance, while Charlotte, nine, of Renfrew, tells of her favourite foods, and Grace Moultrie, 16, of Barrhead, tells of her love of dancing and concerts.