A Royal Navy leading writer has held awareness events in Portsmouth’s Guildhall and Navy Command Headquarters to increase understanding of Down Syndrome.
LWtr Rebecca Fyans is mum to five-year-old Sebby who has Down Syndrome and is a trustee and new parent liaison for the Portsmouth Down Syndrome Association support group.
As part of World Down Syndrome Day she held a coffee morning at the Guildhall, raising £4000 and a similar event at Navy Command in Whale Island where the proceeds are yet to be counted.
World Down Syndrome Day (WDSD) is a global awareness day which has been officially observed by the United Nations since 2012.
Having a set calendar date ensures that local organisations can choose their own activities and events on WDSD to help raise awareness of what Down syndrome is, what it means to have Down syndrome, and how people with Down syndrome play a vital role in our lives and communities.
Rebecca said: “We were so excited to be able to host these coffee sessions to be able to celebrate the day and help people to understand a bit more about Down Syndrome.
"We had an amazing time at the Guildhall where we raised a significant amount of money and made some key contacts at the council to be able to help with support for our group in the future.
“We also held a special screening of a film called The Sanctuary at The Vue which further helped with fundraising and building awareness and I have been so pleased with all the support everyone has given me throughout.
“I am proof that you can have a child with special needs while serving in the military and still being able to work full time – the Royal Navy has been incredibly supportive to me.”
If you would like to make a donation to support the work of Portsmouth Down Syndrome Association , please visit their Virgin Money Giving page or set up a regular donation: https://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/charity-web/charity/finalCharityHomepage.action?charityId=1005248
There is also a text donate number: text PDSA21 plus amount to 70070 eg. PDSA21 £5.
Portsmouth Down Syndrome Association
Portsmouth Down Syndrome Association are committed to improving the lives of children and their families, in Portsmouth and South Hampshire, by providing friendship, support and an extensive range of educational services from birth.
Portsmouth DSA Provides:
- Information and training days for parents and related professionalsU
- Up-to-date information and advice about all aspects of Down syndrome
- Access to our information lending library
- A very warm welcome and guidance for new parents
- Social opportunities for our families to come together, make friends and share experiences
- A wide range of specialist educational services including Communication Therapy, Early Intervention Groups, a School Outreach Service and Drama Groups for members
If you would like to help raise funds on behalf of Portsmouth DSA and need more information, or if you are a business and would like to work in charity partnership please contact the group via their website: www.portmouthdsa.org.
