A happy walk for Down syndrome
An estimated 6,000 attendees comprised of families, schools, supporters, advocates and SM employees, celebrated the triumphant life stories of people with Down syndrome and their families at the 17th Happy Walk for Down Syndrome, which was held recently at the SMX Convention Center, Manila.
Happy Walk was held in celebration of the National Syndrome Consciousness Month and is an annual activity that promotes awareness, acceptance and inclusivity of persons with Down syndrome into society.
Happy Walk was organized by the Down Syndrome Association of the Philippines, Inc. (DSAPI) in partnership with SM Cares. The event featured performances from children affected with the condition, celebrity performances, and fun interactive booths.
A parade around the SM Mall of Asia complex followed after the program allowing children with Down syndrome and their families to interact with the shoppers and tenants of the mall.
The event was attended by Hans Sy, chairman of the executive committee of SM Prime Holdings, together with US Ambassador to the Philippines Sung Kim and Ambassador-designate for the Royal Thai Embassy Vasin Ruangprateepsaeng, who have both long supported the advocacies of SM and DSAPI.
‘‘Having a child with Down syndrome has been one of the most remarkable experiences for me, as well as for countless parents and families. Some experiences can be so powerful that they have longlasting and life-changing impacts on our lives,’’ DSAPI chairman Elmer F. Lapeña shared.
Simultaneously, SM City Bacolod also joined the celebration and had their walk as well.
“At SM, we recognize the everchanging needs of the members of the community where we are present, and the more we celebrate our relationship with groups like DSAPI, the more that we understand what needs to be developed in making a welcoming mall, including persons with disability.” said Bien Mateo, SVP of SM Supermalls and director for SM Cares Program on PWDs.
The Down Syndrome Association of the Philippines is a non-stock, non-profit organization, founded in 1991 by a group of dedicated and committed parents and concerned physicians. It aims to offer support to families who have a child with Down syndrome and to initiate, develop, promote, encourage and support programs and projects concerning Down syndrome.
To know more about SM Cares, visit www.smcares.com.ph, www.facebook.com/OfficialSMCares or email smcares@smsupermalls.com