A Day With Shae – Celebrating World Down Syndrome Day!

About seven houses down from my home at Buffalo Springs Lake lives a young lady who I've known since she was just a little girl. Her name is Shae and she demands that I keep Sunny D in my outdoor fridge for her to drink when she stops by the house. Which is often.

Shae is a very special person with a very special condition. Shae has Down Syndrome and it's only part of what makes her so unique! She's always smiling. Always has some funny story to tell. And ALWAYS laughs at my jokes. Which is why she's one of my very best friends--along with her mom and step-dad, John and Jennifer.

Shae is a former Frenship cheerleader, a semi-professional comedian, a coinsurer of fine foods (mainly whatever you put in front of her), and she's about to be 21-years old!

Shae's mom informed me a few weeks ago that World Down Syndrome Day was coming up on 3/21 and I asked Shae if she wanted to talk about it on the radio with me. She VERY excitedly said, "YES!!!"

So, Shae and her family--including her dad, Mike--all came to the station to talk about this special day of celebration. Tune in to hear what she had to say and read below to find out how YOU can participate!

About World Down Syndrome Day

Every year on March 21st, the world comes together to celebrate World Down Syndrome Day—a day dedicated to awareness, advocacy, and acceptance. The date, 3/21, isn’t just random. It was chosen to represent Trisomy 21, the genetic condition where individuals are born with an extra 21st chromosome—a small difference that makes a big impact!

Why It Matters

World Down Syndrome Day is about more than just awareness—it’s about celebrating the achievements, abilities, and unique strengths of individuals with Down syndrome. It’s a day to advocate for inclusion, support equal rights, and spread understanding about neurodiversity.

How You Can Take Part

Want to show your support? Here’s how you can join in:

👕 Wear Mismatched Socks – It’s a fun, symbolic way to celebrate the beauty of differences and the uniqueness of that extra chromosome!

📚 Educate Yourself & Others – Attend a local event, workshop, or read up on Down syndrome to help break down misconceptions.

💙 Support Organizations – Consider donating to groups that provide resources, education, and advocacy for individuals with Down syndrome and their families.

📲 Spread the Message – Use #WorldDownSyndromeDay on social media to share positive stories, experiences, and words of encouragement.

🎉 Join a Community Event – Many cities host walks, meetups, and awareness campaigns to celebrate the day—check for local events near you!

A Celebration of Strength & Joy

People with Down syndrome, like Shae, bring so much to the world—kindness, resilience, creativity, and joy. World Down Syndrome Day is a chance for all of us to recognize their contributions, amplify their voices, and work toward a future where everyone is valued and included.

So, on March 21st, let’s wear our crazy socks, spread positivity, and make sure the world knows that differences are what make us stronger. 💙💛 #WorldDownSyndromeDay