Emirates Health Services, Emirates Down Syndrome Association Hold Event to Mark World Down Syndrome Day

Emirates Health Services (EHS) joined the Emirates Down Syndrome Association in celebrating World Down Syndrome Day at the latter’s headquarters, where a delegation from EHS, including doctors, took part and children put on various performances.

Dr. Manal Jaarour, Chairman of the Board of Directors at the Emirates Down Syndrome Association, welcomed the delegation and escorted them on a tour of the Association’s development centre, where they explored the services it provides, and applauded the support it offers to People of Determination with Down Syndrome.

Dr. Jaarour reported that since its establishment, the Association has helped 558 individuals with Down Syndrome, and is now witnessing increasing demand for its early intervention services, educational rehabilitation classes, professional training classes, and supportive therapeutic services. The Association provides physical and occupational therapy, speech and language therapy, and special education and behaviour modification sessions.

“Over the course of the past few years, the Emirates Down Syndrome Association has made tremendous progress in the methods and quality of services it provides,” Dr. Jaarour added. “Our efforts have helped integrate a large number of children with Down Syndrome into public schools, as well as train other in various fields. Our partners play a tremendous role in these achievements and we rely on their continued support, in line with the directives of our wise leadership.”

For her part, CEO Salma Kanaan asserted that the Association abides by a clear path that is rooted in best practices, and committed to providing high-quality services, recruiting highly specialised and competent professionals to work with People with Down syndrome, which has led to positive results, consistent with the National Policy for Empowering People of Determination.

The Association provides a bundle of outstanding services that include vocational rehabilitation, employment, sports training, technical workshops, robotics, and recycling, in addition to other projects that will be announced in the near future.

The Emirates Down Syndrome Association organises interactive events and activities aimed at engaging People of Determination, especially in sports activities, promoting their sense of responsibility, and boosting their self-confidence. Activities include bocce, bowling, and golf tournaments, as well as swimming and horse riding. People with Down Syndrome will also be participating in regional and global competitions.

The visiting delegation from Emirates Health Services concluded the event by giving presents to the participating children with Down Syndrome.