HR0821 99TH GENERAL ASSEMBLY

HR0821 LRB099 14597 MST 38734 r

HOUSE RESOLUTION

WHEREAS, In October of 2015, the National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS) will be celebrating Down Syndrome Awareness Month; and

WHEREAS, Down syndrome occurs when an individual has a full or partial extra copy of chromosome 21; this additional genetic material alters the course of development and causes the characteristics typically associated with Down syndrome; and

WHEREAS, One in every 691 babies in the United States is born with Down syndrome, making it the most common genetic condition; approximately 400,000 Americans have Down syndrome and about 6,000 babies with Down syndrome are born in the United States each year; and

WHEREAS, Down syndrome occurs in people of all races and economic levels; and

WHEREAS, The cause of the extra full or partial chromosome is still unknown; maternal age is the only factor that has been linked to an increased chance of having a baby with Down syndrome; and

WHEREAS, People with Down syndrome have an increased risk for certain medical conditions such as congenital heart defects, respiratory and hearing problems, Alzheimer's disease, childhood leukemia, and thyroid conditions; many of these conditions are now treatable, so many 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; and

WHEREAS, People with Down syndrome attend school, work, participate in decisions that affect them, and contribute to society in many wonderful ways; and

WHEREAS, 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; therefore, be it

RESOLVED, BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE NINETY-NINTH GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, that we recognize the National Down Syndrome Society's October 2015 celebration of Down Syndrome Awareness Month; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a suitable copy of this resolution be presented to the NDSS as a symbol of our respect and esteem.