Down Syndrome Association of Nigeria

Thanks to GoodNaijaGirl…..we bring you this important post…

about the …Down syndrome Association of Nigeria is a non-governmental, not-for-profit association of children with Down syndrome as well as their parents, caregivers, and other interested stakeholders.

The association of Nigeria was formed on 4th of December, 2001 by a parent of a child with Down syndrome. Societal attitude toward parents of people with Down syndrome is totally negative in the Nigerian society. Society defines them by what they do not have rather than what they have; what they cannot do rather than what they can do; they are relegated, denigrated and stigmatised on the basis of some retrogressive myth and tradition They are abused physically and sexually with impunity and in extreme cases; even their right to life itself is denied them. It is against this rather harrowing and ugly backdrop that Down Syndrome Association of Nigeria evolved with a vowed commitment to bridge the gap between children/adults with Down syndrome and the rest of the society through a support system that seeks ultimately to integrate them. This commitment is rooted in the firm belief that if given the necessary encouragement and enabling environment to grow like others, people with Down syndrome can and do actualise their potentials and live a fulfilled life. In a vast country like Nigeria, as well as in the entire West African coast, with a combined population of well over 230 million, we are the known non-governmental organization working to provide leadership in all areas of concern as it relates to persons with Down syndrome. It should be noted that charity/volunteer work in our part of the world could be most challenging and frustrating, especially as there is very insignificant, if any, support (both morally/financially) from the Government and corporate concern

Mission Statement

Vision – Our vision is a world where all young people with Down syndrome are offered the opportunities that they need to achieve their individual potential.

Now they need your help!

LIFE SAVING HEART SURGERY FOR 3 DS BABIES

…on behalf of the underlisted babies who have been diagnosed with a serious heart defect:

Ajoke Taofeek (F) – 9 months
Felicia Oyinloye (F) – 12 month
Etim Gabriel (M) – 18 months.

In view of the urgent need for an immediate corrective surgery so as to save the lives of the remaining three babies, the association is making urgent arrangements towards this, but are not financially in a position to bear the total cost hence the appeal for partnership/support in this life-saving venture. It is estimated that the total amount required for the corrective surgery on the three babies in India is approx =N=10.5m. These donations will be used for the sole purpose and benefit of the children
Any donations, no matter how little, will be highly appreciated. Please note that all cheques should be made payable to: DOWN SYNDROME ASSOCIATION OF NIGERIA or paypal payment to info@dsanigeria.org.

For those of you in Nigeria who would like to donate money in person, or volunteer your time, please call or visit the DSAN headquarters. They are located in Lagos, and can be reached by phone at +234 (1) 2704710, +234 (1) 8119718 or +234 (0)8032285545.