Down Syndrome Centre Launch First Ever “I’m Able2” Calendar

The Down Syndrome Centre has just launched their first calendar, entitled ‘I’m Able2’. The calendar features the portraits of 36 children with Down Syndrome from all over Ireland showcasing their abilities. Among the talented bunch is Joshua, aged two, who is able2 sing, Caitlin, aged 12 who won three gold medals representing Ireland at the All Stars Martial Arts Championships in karate in Texas this year, and Liam who was born to his besotted parents Méadhbh and Paulo in April. Each picture was taken during the summer with families travelling to Priory Studios in Stillorgan where Dominic Lee donated his time and expenses to the project. All proceeds of the calendar will go towards securing a premises that will be home to the Down Syndrome Centre. Once opened, the centre will provide essential services to children with Down syndrome and their families. These will include physiotherapy, speech and language therapy and occupational therapy, as well as workshops and seminars for parents. The centre will also create an opportunity for networking for parents of children with Down Syndrome in a supportive and informed environment, with plans to include a respite facility. There is no such centre in Ireland and they rely entirely on public donations in order to make it a reality. January stars - one of the touching images from the new calendar “We are so proud of this project, says Sharon Dagg, CEO of the Down Syndrome Centre, and are very grateful to all the families that submitted an entry to be a part of the calendar. “It is important to us that we highlight the abilities of children with Down syndrome which is central to the Down Syndrome Centres ethos.  We believe that with access to the correct services and tools required in their early development, children with Down Syndrome are able to reach their full potential; singing, dancing, riding a bike or representing their country as the calendar shows. By purchasing a calendar you will be helping to open the first centre dedicated to children with Down Syndrome in Ireland” To purchase a calendar or to find out more about the Down Syndrome Centre you can visit their website www.downsyndromecentre.ie/shop. The calendars will also be available in Avoca stores across Ireland in the coming weeks and are priced at €7.99.