- Friday 10 September 2010
- Subscriptions
- Photo Sales
T4T day celebrations in Tariki
SIMONE Bellringer, New Plymouth, with Dad, Warren, get bat to ball in the game of cricket.
ON Sunday, March 21 the Taranaki Down Syndrome Association hosted its annual celebration of T4T day.
This date was chosen internationally as World Down Syndrome Day to signify the uniqueness of Down Syndrome in the triplication (trisomy) of the 21st chromosome (hence the use of the date 21/03).
T4T is the catchy title used in New Zealand for a concept centred on tea parties. It refers to ‘Tea 4 Trisomy 21.’ T4T parties are an opportunity to raise awareness of Down Syndrome in the community.
This year the local association held its T4T party at the Tariki Hall and Domain, giving members the opportunity to utilise the inside area for arts and crafts, dancing, music, face painting and enjoying lunch together as well as the outside area for sporting games such as tug-of-war and an exciting game of cricket.
The aim of the Taranaki Down Syndrome Association is to promote the participation of people with Down Syndrome in our community through support, information, inclusion and advocacy.
Down Syndrome is a life-long condition that causes delays in learning and development. It cannot be cured, but problems can be eased if people with Down Syndrome have the right help, and if other people have a positive accepting attitude.
In New Zealand one baby in about 1000 is born with Down syndrome –one or more a week. People with Down syndrome are individuals and vary in their abilities and achievements. They are contributing members of society. They do have features in common, but they also closely resemble their parents and family.
The Association’s Community Liaison Person, Tracey Lord, expressed appreciation for the support of Sport Taranaki, Icons Sport, Creative Spaces and volunteers in the running of the ‘party’.
Great weather ensured a fun day was had and the Taranaki Down Syndrome Association hope each year will bring more people to its T4T celebration.
