Down syndrome did not prevent the Spaniard Pablo Pineda from getting higher education, and also become a film actor: he played main role V feature film“Me too” (2009).
Pablo Pineda is convincing proof that even Down syndrome is not a final death sentence for a person (like, probably, any illness or disability in general). A lot depends on the courage of the person himself, his willingness to fight for himself and his future, and also, of course, on the love and help of his loved ones.
What is Down syndrome
Down syndrome is a congenital genetic pathology in which a person has one extra chromosome: instead of 46, there are 47 of them in the chromosome set of a cell: one chromosome, namely the 21st, is represented by three copies instead of two.
This syndrome was first described in 1862 by English doctor John Down, misclassifying it as a form of mental disorder. Signs of people with Down syndrome are a flat face with slanted eyes (this pathology was even called “Mongolism” for quite a long time), an open mouth, a small nose, a short wide neck, a flat back of the head, decreased muscle tone, etc.
At the beginning of the 20th century, with the advent of eugenics, people with Down syndrome began to be forcibly sterilized in many US states. The same thing was done first in Nazi Germany, and then they began to be completely destroyed with the aim of “purifying the Aryan race” as part of the killing program “T-4” (“Action Tiergartenstrasse 4”).
It is recognized that the birth of a child with Down syndrome (on average 1 in 700-800 births) may be influenced by the age of the mother. Very often such children are born to women over 35 years of age. Usually people with Down syndrome are called “children of the Sun” - for their peacefulness and kindness, the absence of any aggressiveness.
In Russia, about 2,000 children with Down syndrome are born every year, and 85% of them turn out to be superfluous in their family: their parents abandon them. In Europe and the United States, if prenatal diagnostics diagnose a child in the womb with Down syndrome, more than 90% of mothers have an abortion. Doctors have been sounding the alarm about this for a long time, but they have not yet been able to cope with the problem.
Pablo is the first
Meanwhile, it is a misconception to believe that such children are not teachable. They do have delays in intellectual and physical development to varying degrees gravity. These may be problems with speech and hearing, development of fine motor skills and communication skills. However, they can still develop: learn not only to walk and talk, but also to read and write, like other children, albeit with a delay.
A striking example of the learning ability of people with Down syndrome is the Spaniard Pablo Pineda, born in 1974 in the Spanish city of Malaga. He grew up in a family where, in addition to him, his two older brothers were raised. Pablo became the first person in Europe with Down syndrome who was able to receive higher education. He graduated in 1999 from the University of Malaga with a degree in educational psychology.
The boy first learned that he was different from everyone else from his teacher at the age of seven, when he was about to go to school. "I am stupid?" – Pablo asked him. “No,” his interlocutor shrugged. “Will I be able to go to school?” He answered in the affirmative, although at that time this was unusual. Today, 85% of Spanish children with Down syndrome go to general, non-specialized schools. At the same time, Pablo became one of the very first such children who studied in a regular school along with other children.
Pablo remembers the school with gratitude. In one of the interviews about his school years he said this: “School is the best time. It was a wonderful, interesting, but also tough experience that enriched my life incredibly. It was especially difficult when I was a teenager.”
Fortunately for him, his parents cared very much about his development and did a lot with it. Pablo himself says this about this: “I grew up in a cultured family, with daily newspapers and a library, curiosity awoke in me very early... In general, such a child should be raised as a child, and not as a “disabled person”: he needs to be educated. Parents should talk to him because worst enemy children with Down syndrome - silence... Parents must always be with them, must show that this is their child. Children with Down syndrome do not need to be overprotected: they should constantly receive mental and physical stimulation and learn independently.”
Another secret to Pablo's success is hard work. For example, he said that he studies 6-7 hours a day. Pablo explained that for him this is in many ways a necessity: after all, people with Down syndrome need to study and learn educational material are harder than usual.
In his early youth, Pablo wanted to become a lawyer or journalist. However, in the end he chose the teaching profession at the university. For some time after graduation, Pineda worked in the municipality of Malaga. Now he is busy teaching at a school in the Spanish city of Cordoba.
At the 2009 San Sebastian International Film Festival, Pineda won the Best Actor award for Me Too, where he played a university teacher with Down syndrome. We can say that Pablo largely plays himself in the film.
We bring to your attention excerpts from one of the interviews with Pablo Pineda, where he talks about his life and how, in his opinion, society should treat people with Down syndrome.
Pablo Pineda: we should be seen as ordinary people
– What do you remember about school? Was it difficult to adapt?
– I remember my school period as quite useful for me. The difficulties I encountered were often caused by mistrust and fear on the part of senior teachers. They were full of prejudices, and it seemed to them self-evident that I would not cope with my studies. But I was lucky. Young teachers supported me. They approved of my stay at school and insisted that I stay.
WITH early childhood I always studied in government educational institutions. I must admit that my path was not paved with roses due to Down syndrome, and I had problems with integration.
– How do you fight for your integration? What's the hardest thing about this?
“From the very beginning until today, I have to constantly prove and show what I am capable of. It is very difficult, it is a very difficult struggle, the hardest in my life. I always have to go “one step ahead.” I have faced “no” hundreds of times, but I have learned to fight and achieve “yes.” Some things offended me. For example, I was told that my case was artificial, that it was a substitution, that I had a “mosaic” form of the syndrome (a variant of Down syndrome, in which only some, and not all, cells of the body contain the tripled 21st chromosome - ed.).
– In your opinion, are young Spaniards able to truly integrate a person with Down syndrome into society?
– I have many friends and I have wonderful memories of school. Children are more tolerant, more united. IN adolescence it was more difficult for me. The guys at the institute were not so understanding... Well, oh well, in any case, the good outweighs. Everyone has their own experience. All sorts of things happened to me, but, in general, my student life was happy.
– How did you get involved in your work?
– ... I am a certified teacher in the field special education in the direction of “educational psychology”. I am the only person with Down syndrome who has managed to make a career. I consider myself lucky; I am not without work. For almost a year I worked in the social welfare department of the City Hall of Malaga, then in a project for socialization and inclusion in professional activity people on the verge of marginalization... I really enjoy working.
– Do you understand that most people suffering from Down syndrome do not have the same opportunities for a self-sufficient life?
– I feel my exceptional position and I think that several circumstances contributed to this: firstly, I myself very clearly saw myself as such. Besides, my parents helped me as much as they could. They believed in my strength and always supported me. They decided once and for all for themselves that I was absolutely normal in everything and did not make any distinction between me and my brothers. Of course, it wasn’t easy for me.
– That is, do you think that parents play a key role in the development of a person with Down syndrome?
– The most important, without a doubt. But, unfortunately, many parents who have a child with Down syndrome immediately lose hope, do not invest in him as they should, because they simply do not realize his capabilities. This is what makes me different from most guys with Down syndrome. At the same time, it is very important not to overload such children with care; they must be given the freedom to develop.
– Have you ever had moments when you wanted to give up everything, moments of complete loneliness?
– Yes, in the second year of my bachelor’s degree. That year everything was going against me. The teachers were full of prejudices, I suffered a lot from my classmates, they looked down on me, contemptuously... that was the situation. I didn't tell my parents anything. As a result, I endured everything and came to the conclusion that I was able to overcome everything on my own. In general, I moved on with my life. It's funny that in the worst moments of my life, I always meet someone who helps me and supports me. A guardian angel always appears to me.
– What is your goal for the near future?
– I have always believed and continue to believe that my goal is to fight for the liberation of society from prejudices and stereotypes. Our voice must be heard by society, we must be seen ordinary people. To this day, I sometimes ask myself whether society really understands me. It seems to me that people with Down syndrome are not yet sufficiently understood and appreciated as individuals. There is a lack of awareness and often ignorance on this topic. In general, the road ahead is long, we will have to prove a lot.
– What advice do you have for a person with Down syndrome who is having difficulty coping with their condition?
– My advice is to never lose your presence of mind, feel strength and courage, accept yourself as anyone and love yourself. Do not be afraid under any circumstances, do not envy anyone and put aside your complexes! We must fight with all our might. Surely, you have some abilities, and they need to be cultivated. For example, I manage to write well and study well, but the bear stepped on my ear. Everyone decides for themselves what to develop.
– Can you remember a day that fills you with pride? The day when you felt that your efforts were not in vain?
– I can, and not just one such day. Once, when students in a professionally oriented course were being rewarded for their success, I was awarded a special prize. I was bursting with pride when I saw the packed assembly hall in front of me, heard applause and shouts of approval. These were truly indescribable feelings. Another time I was doing an internship at a school, and they gave me an incredible celebration, they prepared a bunch of surprises and poems in my honor. I still get goosebumps when I remember... We were all crying at the end!
There is a misconception that people with Down syndrome are absolutely unadapted to life and cannot study, work, or achieve any success. However, this is not at all true. Our heroes act in films, teach, walk on the catwalk and win gold medals!
Among the “children of the sun” there are talented actors, artists, athletes and teachers. Read our selection and see for yourself!
Judith ScottSad and amazing story Judith began on May 1, 1943, when twin girls were born into an ordinary family from Columbus. One of the girls, named Joyce, was born absolutely healthy, but her sister Judith was diagnosed with Down syndrome.
In addition to this, while still a baby, Judith fell ill with scarlet fever and lost her hearing. The girl did not speak and did not react in any way to remarks addressed to her, so the doctors mistakenly believed that she had severe mental retardation. The only person who understood Judith and could communicate with her was her sister Joyce. The twins were inseparable. The first 7 years of Judith's life were absolutely happy...
And then... her parents, under pressure from doctors, made a catastrophic decision. They placed Judith in a home for the feeble-minded and abandoned her.
Joyce separated from her beloved sister for 35 long years. All these years she suffered from melancholy and guilt. One can only guess what Judith was experiencing at this time. At that time, no one was interested in the experiences of the “mentally retarded”...
In 1985, Joyce, unable to withstand many years of moral torment, found her twin and took custody of her. It immediately became clear that no one was involved in the development and upbringing of Judith: she did not know how to read or write, she was not even taught the language of the deaf and dumb. The sisters moved to the Californian city of Oakland. Here Judith began visiting an arts center for people with mental disabilities. A turning point in her life occurred when she took a fiber art class (thread weaving technique). After this, Judith began creating sculptures from threads. The basis for her products was any objects that were in her field of vision: buttons, chairs, dishes. She carefully wrapped the found objects in multi-colored threads and created unusual, unlike anything else, sculptures. She did not stop this work until her death in 2005.
Gradually, her creations, bright, powerful, original, gained fame. Some were fascinated by them, others, on the contrary, were repulsed, but everyone agreed that they were filled with some kind of extraordinary energy. Judith's work can now be seen in outsider art museums. Their prices reach up to 20 thousand dollars.
Her sister said about her:
“Judith managed to show the whole world how someone who has been thrown into the dustbin by society can come back and prove that he is capable of extraordinary achievements.”Pablo Pineda (born 1974)
Pablo Pineda is a Spanish actor and teacher who has gained worldwide fame. Pablo was born in the Spanish city of Malaga. IN early age he was diagnosed with a mosaic form of Down syndrome (i.e., not all cells contain an extra chromosome).
The parents did not send their child to a specialized boarding school. He successfully completed regular school, and then entered the university and received a diploma in educational psychology.
In 2008, Pablo starred in the film “Me Too” - touching story love of a teacher with Down syndrome and healthy woman(the film has been translated into Russian). For his role as a teacher, Pablo was awarded the Silver Shell at the Saint-Sebastian Film Festival.
Pineda currently lives and teaches in his hometown of Malaga. Here Pablo is treated with great respect. They even named the square after him.
Pascal Duquenne (born 1970)
Pascal Duquenne is a theater and film actor with Down syndrome. WITH early years He became interested in acting, took part in many amateur theatrical productions, and after meeting director Jaco Van Dormael he received his first film roles. The most famous character he embodied is Georges from the film “The Eighth Day.”
At the Cannes Film Festival, Duquenne was recognized as best film actor for this role. He later starred in Mr. Nobody in a cameo role as the double of the main character, played by Jared Leto.
Now Duquenne is a media person, he gives numerous interviews and appears in television programs. In 2004, the King of Belgium made him Commander of the Order of the Crown, which is equivalent to knighting.
The paintings of American artist Raymond Hu delight connoisseurs. Raymond paints animals using traditional Chinese techniques.
His passion for painting began back in 1990, when his parents invited the artist home to take several private lessons from him. Then 14-year-old Raymond painted his first picture: flowers in a measuring cup. Painting fascinated him; he moved from flowers to animals.
Maria Langovaya (born in 1997)
Masha Langovaya is a Russian athlete from Barnaul, world champion in swimming. She took part in the Special Olympics twice and won gold both times. When Masha was little, her mother did not even think about making her a champion. It’s just that the girl was often sick, and her parents decided to “toughen her up” and sent her to the pool. Water turned out to be Masha’s native element: she loved to swim and compete with other children. It was then that her mother decided to send her daughter to professional sports.
Jamie Brewer (born February 5, 1985)
Jamie Brewer is an American actress who gained fame after starring in several seasons of American Horror Story. Already as a child, Jamie dreamed of acting career. She attended a theater group and took part in a variety of productions.
In 2011, she received her first film role. To the authors of the series American history horror" needed a young actress with Down syndrome. Jamie was invited to audition and, to her surprise, was approved for the role. Jamie also tried herself as a model. She is the first woman with Down syndrome to walk at New York Fashion Week. She presented a dress from designer Carrie Hammer.
Jamie is an active activist for the rights of disabled people. Thanks to her efforts, the offensive phrase “mental retardation” was replaced by “intellectual developmental disability” in the state of Texas.
Karen Gafni (born 1977)
Karen Gaffney is another amazing example of how people with disabilities can achieve the same results as healthy people, and even surpass them. Karen achieved amazing success in swimming.
Is everyone healthy man can swim across the English Channel? What about swimming 14 kilometers in water with a temperature of 15 degrees? But Karen did it! A tireless swimmer, she bravely overcame difficulties, taking part in competitions with able-bodied athletes. She won two gold medals at the Special Olympics. In addition, Karen founded a foundation to help people with disabilities and received a doctorate!
Madeline Stewart
Madeline Stewart is perhaps the most famous model with Down syndrome. She advertises clothes and cosmetics, walks the catwalk and takes part in photo shoots. One can only envy her determination. In order to get on the podium, the girl lost 20 kilograms. And her mother Rosanna also has a lot to do with her success.
“Every day I tell her how amazing she is and she believes it unconditionally. Maddie truly loves herself. She can tell you how gorgeous she is."Jack Barlow (7 years old)
A 7-year-old boy became the first person with Down syndrome to perform on stage with a ballet troupe. Jack made his debut in the ballet "The Nutcracker". The boy has been seriously engaged in choreography for 4 years, and he was finally entrusted to perform with professional dancers. Thanks to Jack, the performance performed by the Cincinnati Ballet Company was sold out. In any case, the video posted on the Internet received more than 50,000 views. Experts are already predicting a brilliant ballet future for Jack.
Paula Sage (born 1980)
Paula Sage's versatility would be the envy of an absolutely healthy person. Firstly, she is a wonderful actress who received several prestigious awards for her role in the British film After Life. Secondly, Paula is a brilliant athlete who plays netball professionally. And thirdly - public figure and human rights activist.
A wonderful teacher with Down syndrome works in one of the kindergartens in Argentina. 30-year-old Noelia copes well with her duties, the kids adore her. At first, some parents were against having a person with a similar diagnosis raise their children. However, they soon became convinced that Noelia was a sensitive teacher who loved children very much and knew how to find an approach to them. By the way, the kids perceive Noelia absolutely normally and do not see anything unusual in her.
The appearance of a special child in a family is a real test of humanity and tolerance, and raising such a child is a huge job that requires incredible spiritual strength.
The children of these stars were born with certain developmental problems, but their parents do not make a secret of this, but honestly talk about their experience, setting an example for many people.
On April 1, 2012, actress and presenter Evelina Bledans became the mother of a wonderful baby Semyon. Evelina found out that her child had Down syndrome at the 14th week of pregnancy. Doctors advised her to have an abortion, but the star categorically refused. And I have never regretted it. Now Sema is already 5 years old, he is an active, cheerful and very bright child. The star mother devotes a lot of time to the upbringing and development of her baby. For example, already at 3.5 years old the boy learned to read, which not every healthy child can do. The actress proudly talks about her son’s successes on social networks, inspiring hope and optimism in other people raising special children:
“We show by our own example that such children can and should be loved and adored, that they are beautiful, smart and cheerful”Irina Khakamada and Masha
Successful politician and businesswoman Irina Khakamada for a long time hid the fact that her daughter Masha, born in 1997, has Down syndrome. Masha is a late child; Irina gave birth to her at the age of 42 from her third husband, Vladimir Sirotinsky:
“This is the hard-won, very desired fruit of our love”
Now Masha is 20 years old. She is studying at college to become a ceramist and is interested in theater. The girl loves dancing and has outstanding creative abilities. And recently Maria got a boyfriend. Her chosen one was Vlad Sitdikov, who was also diagnosed with Down syndrome. Despite the illness, the young man achieved amazing success in sports: he is the world champion in the bench press among juniors.
Anna Netrebko and Thiago
Your only son Thiago, a world opera star, gave birth in 2008. At first it seemed that he was absolutely healthy and developing in the same way as ordinary children. However, when by the age of three the child had not learned to pronounce even basic words, the parents decided to show him to the doctor. Thiago was diagnosed with a mild form of autism. The opera star did not fall into despair; she found first-class specialists who had enormous experience in dealing with autistic children, and enrolled her son in one of the best specialized schools in New York.
Thiago is now 8 years old; and he is making amazing progress. There was hope that the boy would be able to fully recover. On the talk show “Let Them Talk,” Anna Netrebko addressed all mothers of autistic children:
“Believe me: this is not a sentence! There are methods that develop such children to normal standards."Colin Farrell and James
Colin Farrell's eldest son, James, has Angelman syndrome, also known as happy doll syndrome. Its symptoms: developmental delay, convulsions, causeless outbursts of merriment. As for James, water brings him particular joy. Colin Farrell says:
“He loves everything to do with water. If he gets upset about something, I just fill a bowl of water."
Despite the fact that Farrell broke up with James' mother a long time ago, he devotes a lot of time to raising his son:
“I adore James, I'm crazy about him. He helps us all become better, more honest, kinder..."
James took his first steps at 4 years old, spoke at 7, and only began to eat on his own at 13. Despite this, Farrell claims that his son is “dragging him in his arms.”
When Diesel, Toni Braxton's youngest son, was 3 years old, doctors diagnosed him with autism. The singer blamed herself for the boy’s illness; she believed that in this way God was punishing her for the abortion she had in 2001. At first, Toni became desperate and overwhelmed with guilt. But for the sake of Diesel, she pulled herself together and turned to the best specialists who helped the boy a lot. In 2016, Toni announced that her 13-year-old son was completely cured.
Sylvester Stallone and Sergio
Sergio, the youngest son of Sylvester Stallone, was born in 1979. When the boy was 3 years old, his parents decided to take him to the doctor, as they were alarmed by the child’s isolation and inability to communicate. It turned out that the boy has a severe form of autism. For Stallone and his wife, this was a real shock. Doctors suggested placing Sergio in a special institution, but his parents didn’t want to hear about it. The entire burden of the struggle for her son fell on the shoulders of his mother. Stallone almost never showed up at home, working his ass off and earning money for Sergio’s treatment.
Sergio is currently 38 years old. He lives in his own special world, from which he never leaves. His father often visits him, but, in his own words, he is not able to help his son.
Model Jenny McCarthy showed the whole world that autism can and should be fought. She proved this with the example of her son Evan, who was diagnosed with this disease in early childhood.
From early childhood, the best specialists worked with Evan, and the actress herself devoted a lot of time to the child. As a result, he learned to make friends and went to secondary school. This is huge progress, considering that previously the boy was unable to make simple eye contact.
Jenny believes that the cause of the disease was vaccinations (although modern medicine does not confirm that vaccination causes autism spectrum disorder).
Jenny spoke about her experience in the book Louder Than Words. In addition, she organized a special foundation that deals with the problems of autism.
In 2009, a terrible tragedy occurred in the family of John Travolta: the actor’s 16-year-old son Jett died as a result of an epileptic seizure. Only after the death of the young man did the public learn that he had autism, as well as asthma and epilepsy. After losing his son, John Travolta fell into a long depression:
“His death was the most terrible experience of my life. I didn’t even know if I could survive this.”Danko and Agata
3-year-old Agatha, the youngest daughter of singer Danko, has been diagnosed with a very serious disease since birth - childhood cerebral paralysis. The cause of the illness was a difficult birth.
Doctors and relatives persuaded the singer to place the baby in a specialized institution or abandon her altogether, believing that he and his wife would not be able to provide the girl with professional care. However, Danko did not even want to hear about giving his daughter into the wrong hands. Now the girl is surrounded by the love and care of loved ones; They work with her a lot, and she has already begun to take her first steps.
Katie Price and Harvey
British model Katie Price is a mother of many children; she has five children. 15-year-old Harvey, her eldest son, is blind from birth; In addition, he was diagnosed with autism and Prader-Willi syndrome, a very rare genetic disease, one of the manifestations of which is an uncontrollable need for food and, as a result, obesity. The unfortunate boy has already suffered a lot of grief: his own father, football player Dwight Yorke, refused to see him, and later child was subjected to online bullying.
Dan Marino and Michael
Michael, the son of American football player Dan Marino, was diagnosed with autism at the age of two. Thanks to timely and successful treatment, Michael, who is already 29 years old, lives an almost full life, and his parents founded a foundation to help children with autism spectrum disorder.
Konstantin Meladze and Valery
The son of music producer Konstantin Meladze suffers from autism. For a long time The boy’s parents hid this from the public, but after their divorce in 2013, Meladze’s ex-wife gave a frank interview in which she talked about how difficult it is to raise an autistic child. She also advised all parents of special children to contact doctors as early as possible, since early diagnosis plays a huge role in the successful treatment of autism.
John McGinley and Max
20-year-old Max, the eldest son of actor John McGinley, has also been diagnosed with Down syndrome. Although the “Scrubs” star divorced the young man’s mother a long time ago, he continues to take an active part in his son’s life. In one of his interviews, McGinley addressed all parents whose children were diagnosed with Down syndrome.
“You didn't do anything wrong. This is not a punishment for the mistakes of your youth. The child has 21 chromosomes. You are not the only ones to whom God sent this miracle. And love. Love works wonders"Michael Douglas and Dylan
Dylan, the eldest son of Michael Douglas and Catherine Zeta-Jones, has some developmental problems, but his parents did not disclose the exact diagnosis. Michael briefly mentioned his son's health in 2010, admitting that Dylan has "special needs."
Neil Young and his children
By a strange quirk of fate, both sons from the Canadian musician’s two marriages have cerebral palsy. This disease is not hereditary, so the appearance of two children with this diagnosis in one family is a very rare coincidence.
Knowing firsthand the problems of disabled people, Young and his wife Peggy founded a school for special children.
Robert De Niro and Elliot
U famous actor six children. In 2012, at a press conference dedicated to the premiere of the film My Boyfriend Is Psycho, de Niro admitted that his son Elliot, born in 1997, has autism.
Fyodor Bondarchuk and Varya
Varya, daughter of Fyodor and Svetlana Bondarchuk, was born in 2001, premature. For this reason, the girl is slightly behind in development. Parents do not consider their daughter sick, preferring to call her “special.” Varya’s mother talks about her with delight:
“Fantastic, funny and much loved child. It is simply impossible not to love her. She is very bright"
Most of the time, Varya lives away from her parents, abroad, where she receives quality treatment and education.
Sergei Belogolovtsev and Zhenya
The youngest children of actor Sergei Belogolovtsev, twins Sasha and Zhenya, were born premature. Zhenya was diagnosed with 4 heart defects, so he had to undergo surgery in infancy. major surgery, after which the child developed cerebral palsy. At first, the parents hid this diagnosis from others and were even embarrassed about their own son. But they soon realized that by talking about their problem and sharing their experience, they could help many people.
But Zhenya is doing well: he graduated from a school for gifted children, went to college and even became a TV presenter. Now he hosts the program “Miscellaneous News” on the Raz TV channel.
Once upon a time, the diagnosis of Down syndrome sounded like a death sentence, but over the years, society has adapted to these special people. Some of them managed to become famous and achieve success, proving that Down syndrome is not a death sentence, and people who have it are not doomed, reports.
People with Down syndrome become artists, lawyers, actors, models, athletes and restaurateurs. The main thing is desire, hope, endurance, strength and, of course, the support of caring people.
Note that International Down Syndrome Day began to be celebrated in 2006 at the suggestion of Greek geneticist Stylianos Antonarakis from the University of Geneva. At the VI International Symposium on Down Syndrome, held in Palma de Mallorca, on the initiative of the boards of the European and World Down Syndrome Associations, it was decided to declare March 21 as International Down Syndrome Day.
The twenty-first day of the third month was not chosen by chance, since Down syndrome is associated with 3 copies of chromosome 21 (trisomy 21).
REFERENCE. Down syndrome is a chromosomal abnormality characterized by an additional 21 chromosome - complete (trisomy 21) or partial (due to translocation). Such people have 47 chromosomes in their karyotype instead of the usual 46. They have a characteristic appearance, an increased likelihood of developing a certain range of diseases (for example, congenital defects of the cardiovascular system, acquired defects of the sensory system), a certain mental retardation, as a result of which slower mental development occurs against the background of healthy individuals and worse social adaptation.
Due to the impossibility of completely treating the problems of this anomaly, medicine does not aim at permanent treatment, but at ensuring a normal social status for people with Down syndrome.
DATA. According to WHO statistics, every 700th child is born with Down syndrome in the world. This ratio is the same in different countries, climatic zones and social layers. Genetic failure occurs regardless of the lifestyle of the parents, their health, habits and education.
It is known that the risk of having a child with Down syndrome depends on the age of the mother. For women under 25 years of age, the probability of having a sick child is 1/1400, up to 30 years old - 1/1000, at 35 years old the risk increases to 1/350, at 42 years old - to 1/60, and at 49 years old - to 1/1/1000. 12. However, since young women in general give birth to significantly more children, the majority (80%) of all children with Down syndrome are actually born to young women under the age of 30.
50 percent of babies have congenital abnormalities of the heart, stomach and intestines. Previously, they lived up to 40 years because these diseases were not treated. Now life expectancy is 60-65 years.
They fall in love easily and never betray, often creating families. Children are not born in such families; almost all men with Down syndrome are infertile. In women, pregnancy ends in miscarriage or premature birth.
There are many jobs in the United States that are specifically designed for people with Down syndrome. T Some people work as waiters in cafes and repair shoes. It is beneficial for them to entrust work that requires a scrupulous approach - arranging literature in the library, delivering mail. It is difficult for such people to find work in Ukraine.
FAMOUS AND SUCCESSFUL PEOPLE WITH DOWN SYNDROME
Artist Raymond Hu
30-year-old artist Raymond Hu lives in California, USA. He paints using Chinese techniques, using ink and watercolor on rice paper. Raymond draws portraits of animals - lions, tigers, lizards, elephants, fish, turtles, dogs. His works are in demand and are even exhibited at various auctions.
Artist Michael Jurgue Johnson
Another artist from the USA, Illinois, Jurgu Johnson Michael was born with Down syndrome, but this does not prevent him from creating real works of art. His works include portraits, images of animals, and landscapes. To be able to help his family, he draws not only from his own inspiration, but also fulfills orders.
The man has a website where he exhibits his work and accepts orders. He took part in many competitions and exhibitions.
Actress, athlete and lawyer Paula Saj
Paula Sage was born in Scotland in 1980. The illness did not stop her from starring in several films, for example, for her role in the British film “After Life” she received a BAFTA award in the category “Best Film Debut”, plays professional netball and became successful lawyer. Paula provides legal support to two international funds- Ann Craft and Mancap.
Teacher and athlete Karen Gafni
The 37-year-old woman continued her education after graduating from high school, and in 2001 received a teaching assistant certificate from Community College in Portland.
She also runs a non-profit organization that helps children with disabilities, in particular those with Down syndrome, adapt to society. Despite being paralyzed left leg She became the first person with Down syndrome to swim the English Channel. After that, Gaffney set several more records and became a gold medalist at the Paralympic Games.
Karen swam 9 miles in Lake Tahoe in temperatures of 60 degrees Fahrenheit, which is 15 C. She became the first person with Down syndrome to do so.
Actor, teacher and social activist Pablo Pineda
Spanish actor who received the Silver Shell at the San Sebastian Film Festival in 2009 for Best Actor in the film Me Too. He lives in Malaga and works in the municipality and also teaches. Pablo has several degrees: teaching, bachelor of arts and a diploma in educational psychology. When he returned to Malaga from San Sebastian, where he received the prize, the mayor of the city, Francisco de la Torre, presented him with the Shield of the City award.
Pablo is the first person with Down syndrome in Europe to receive university education. He gave preference to teaching, leaving the profession of an actor.
Musician and composer Ronald Jenkins
At age 6, Ronald received a synthesizer for Christmas. It was on this instrument that he learned to play simple melodies and played with friends. At school he played in the Marching band, and because he couldn't play notes, the band leader allowed Jenkis to write his own piano parts, "playing along" at performances around town.
Subsequently he became a successful composer and musician. Many connoisseurs of electronic music consider Ronald a genius. Since 2003, under the pseudonym "Big Cheez", he began posting his melodies online. In 2006, Jenkis began posting his videos on YouTube. Now the 28-year-old musician is a YouTube star.
His online videos quickly gained popularity, but the turning point was an invitation from the sports website ESPN.com to record a topic for a podcast. A year later, Ronald released his first studio album - Ronald Jenkees.
Restaurateur Tim Harris
Tim Harris is a successful restaurateur. He owns Tim's Place, "the friendliest restaurant in the world," which offers visitors, in addition to traditional dishes, free hugs from Tim. Since opening the restaurant in 2010, Tim has hugged more than 22,000 people.
Actress Stephanie Ginz
Stephanie Ginz became the first actress with Down syndrome in film history. Stephanie starred in her first film, Duo, at the age of 12. The film became a real sensation. In 1996, "Duo" received numerous awards, including the Academy Award, the Chicago International Film Festival, the Wasserman Award for Best Cinematography, as well as awards from Warner Brothers and Martin Scorsese.
Model Madeline Stewart
20-year-old Australian Madeline Stewart made her debut on the big catwalk as a model in September 2015. Since then, the girl with Down syndrome has become a popular model: she is constantly invited to participate in shows by famous designers, and popular brands offer models to star in their advertisements. In 2016, Madeline again became the star of New York Fashion Week.
Ukrainian Instagram star Sofia Sanchez, which supports children with Down syndrome around the world
Jennifer and Hector Sanchez adopted a Ukrainian girl when she was just over a year old. The Sanchez family's own son also has Down syndrome.
“We were able to give our boy a sister who understands him, and they can walk their path together,” Jennifer explained her action.
Sophia, on her own initiative, became a defender special people, showing how much they love life. Sofia already goes to school, travels with her family and spends her leisure time actively. She became popular thanks to a video in which she says that being sick with Down syndrome is not scary, and everyone who has it is special.
Until recently, people with Down syndrome were perceived as an exceptionally unhealthy segment of the population who could not cope with their affairs on their own, study and work on an equal basis with everyone else, and be a full-fledged member of society. But today the situation has changed radically, and many famous people with Down syndrome have proven that they can achieve great success in life, despite the terrible verdict of doctors.
What is Down syndrome
Down syndrome, or trisomy, is a genetic abnormality caused by the appearance of an extra chromosome in the 21st pair. That is, if the normal number of chromosomes is 46, then with the syndrome a person develops 47 chromosomes.
This pathology occurs in 1 out of 700 newborns. However, if a woman is over 35 and a man is over 45, then this statistics changes significantly and then is already 1 in 20.
People of the sun - who are they?
Such people are characterized by a Mongoloid eye shape, which is why this disease was previously called “Mongolism.” As well as a flattened back of the head, skin folds in the corners of the eyes, an open mouth or strongly drooping corners of the mouth, a short neck and limbs. In addition, these children have severely weakened immunity and developmental delays.
However, it has been noted that children with Down syndrome are very affectionate, cheerful, kind and patient. They do not know how to hate, lie, envy or harm others. That's why they are called "special" or "children of the sun."
Extraordinary Actors
Today, actors with Down syndrome are no longer such an amazing story as one might previously imagine. There are at least two dozen actors who have this anomaly, but it has not stopped them from becoming famous.
- Liam Bairstow. He played the role of Alex in Coronation Street.
- Jamie Brewer. The actress became famous for her role as Adelaide in the TV series American Horror Story.
- Luke Zimmerman. Played Tom Bowman in the series " Secret life American teenager."
- Lauren Potter. The actress became famous after her role as Becky in the TV show Glee.
- Chris Burke. The actor appeared in the film "Desperado", where he was noticed by the producers of the series "Life Goes On" and invited to the main role.
- Pascal Duquenne. Belgian actor who played in the film "The Eighth Day" and received an award at the Cannes Film Festival.
- Sarah Gordy. British model, actress and singer. She played Pamela Holland in the TV series Down and Up Stairs.
- David DeSanctis. Got the role of Producer in famous film"Where the dream lives."
- Richard Beckett. The British actor starred in the TV series “No Offences.”
- The Spanish actor gained popularity after the film “Me Too.”
The world also knows such actors as E. Barbanell, T. Jessop, S. Brandon, T. Barella, A. Friedman, K. Garcia, E. House, D. Laurie, K. Nausbaum, D. Stevens and others.
To sports with a smile
No less famous people with Down syndrome have joined the ranks of athletes.
- Karen Gaffney. The girl's leg is paralyzed, but this does not prevent her from participating in competitive swims. She swam across the English Channel at 15 o C, 14 km. In addition, Karen is an active disability rights activist and the first person to receive a doctorate in humanities with Down syndrome. She also won gold at the Paralympic Games several times and founded a foundation that helps people with disabilities.
- Paula Sazh. Participated in the Paralympic netball games. In addition to sports, he actively acts in films and practices law on behalf of people with Down syndrome.
- Ayelen Barreiro. The young girl is a professional dancer. Participates in competitions along with other participants. She has been involved in rhythmic gymnastics for many years and has incredible flexibility and energy.
Successful and strong people
And now we will talk about the most successful and famous people with Down syndrome in the world.
- Judith Scott. This woman's story is amazing. She was born in a pair with a twin sister. However, her sister was absolutely healthy, while Judith herself turned out to have Down syndrome.
At the age of 7, her parents sent the girl to a home for the feeble-minded. She spent 35 years of her life there until her sister found her and took custody of her. The woman did not know how to read or write, no one cared for her. But one day, having taken a course in thread weaving (fiber art), Judith became so carried away that she began creating sculptures from the first objects that came to hand.
Now she is no longer alive, but her creations are sold in the Outsider Art Museum, the price of which reaches 20 thousand dollars. Judith is one of the most famous people with Down syndrome.
- Raymond Hu. A California-based artist is captivating art lovers with his Chinese-style paintings using rice paper, watercolor and ink. He depicts birds and animals, often drawing from life.
- Ronald Jenkins. Musician from America. Composer of music in the style of techno, rock and roll, hip-hop, etc. Electronic music lovers recognized him as a genius.
- Tim Harris. A restaurateur who owns the friendliest and most hospitable restaurant in the world. In addition to a delicious lunch or dinner, every visitor will receive Tim’s warm and sincere hugs. By the way, even Barack Obama ordered these same hugs.
- Madeline Stewart. Australian model, catwalk star. World designers and brands are simply fighting for the girl. In 2016, she was the star of New York Fashion Week. She starred for Vogue and became a designer.
- An artist who learned to draw on his own. Now he is a successful and very talented professional who has already held an exhibition at Vanderbilt University in Tennessee.
- Noelia Garella. An excellent teacher works in Argentina with children from kindergarten. At first, not all parents were delighted that a girl with a similar disease was working with their children. But the children’s joy and their attachment to the teacher convinced them. The children themselves do not notice the peculiarities of their favorite teacher at all.
Famous people with Down syndrome in Russia
- Until recently, a girl with Down syndrome was the only one who managed to get an official job. Doctors suggested leaving the girl in the maternity hospital, but the parents did not do this. Maria’s mother worked with her daughter, taught her to speak and read, and walked with her in the forest, since the parents of the neighboring children did not want the girl to play with their offspring.
After leaving kindergarten She became an actress at the Theater of the Simple-minded. The girl also plays the flute and helps teach “sunny” children at Downside Up.
- Sergey Makarov. Colleague of Maria Nefedova in the theater workshop. He won a prize at the Kinotavr festival thanks to the film "Old Women", where he played Mikolka.
- Evgenia Dubrovskaya. Vologda artist and student at the College of Folk Crafts. Has the title "Student of the Year 2016".
- Bogdan Kovalchuk. The sunny boy lives in neighboring Ukraine. A very educated guy became the first in his homeland who entered university with such a diagnosis. He is a master of the computer, English language, he has an excellent memory for dates and names. Knows almost all the capitals of the world's states.
Russian will to win
The list of the most successful people with Down syndrome in Russia is completed by our athletes.
- Leysan Zaripova. In Russia she became the first to have a license to teach Zumba fitness dance. Received the Grand Prix award at the Inclusive Dance festival 2016. And has the title “Graceful Pearl of Tatarstan-2016”.
- Andrey Vostrikov. The Voronezh guy became the absolute champion of the world and the Russian Federation in artistic gymnastics among people with disabilities. In the Paralympic Games, Andrei took gold (4 medals) and silver (2 medals).
- Maria Longovaya. Winner of the Paralympic Games in swimming. She became a gold, silver and bronze medalist. When the parents sent the girl to the pool to improve her health, they had no idea that they were raising a future champion.
- Arina Kutepova. The only person in Russia with Down syndrome who became a candidate for master of sports. Her niche is artistic gymnastics.
Sunny children from the West
In addition to famous adult people with Down syndrome, we would like to draw attention to children.
- Max, son of actor John McGinley. The boy was diagnosed with Down syndrome. John loves his son very much and spends all his free time from filming TV series with him. He calls to love these children and calls them “a miracle from God.”
- Alvaro, son of the head coach of the Spanish national football team, Vicente del Bosque. This is a young 21 year old guy. And the whole team considers him their talisman.
Unusual children in Russia
Children with Down syndrome among famous people in Russia have always attracted a lot of attention.
- The actress is raising a wonderful 5-year-old boy, Semyon. She never hid him from the public; on the contrary, she constantly shares her son’s successes and is very proud of him.
- “Both the celebrities themselves and children with Down syndrome” - this is what they say on social networks about Lolita Milyavskaya and Irina Khakamada.
Eva, Lolita's daughter, has poor eyesight. At first Lolita hid her daughter’s illness, but now she is trying to help her realize herself.
Masha, Irina’s daughter, was born when her mother herself was 42 years old. Now she is studying abroad and dating a guy with the same diagnosis.
All these stories of famous people with Down syndrome cannot leave humanity indifferent. These people prove every day that they deserve to be in society. Their incredible strength and desire for life are worthy of admiration and great respect.
