October is Down Syndrome Awareness Month

October is Down Syndrome Awareness Month

Down Syndrome Awareness (4)

What is Down Syndrome?

Down syndrome is a genetic condition that causes delays in physical and intellectual development. It occurs in one in every 691 live births. Individuals with Down syndrome have 47 chromosomes instead of the usual 46. It is the most frequently occurring chromosomal disorder. Down syndrome is not related to race, nationality, religion or socioeconomic status. The most important fact to know about individuals with Down syndrome is that they are more like others than they are different.

For families living with someone with Down Syndrome, every day is a chance to promote Down syndrome awareness. The calendar, however, provides us with one month during the year when we can really step up those efforts. IMG_0589

How can you promote Down Syndrome Awareness?

  • Distribute National Association for Down Syndrome (NADS) posters and bookmarks to area schools, libraries, or businesses (you can order them through the NADS office or the website: www.nads.org)
  • Provide your obstetrician or your family doctor with updates about how your child is doing and, if they are receptive, with family photos or information about Down syndrome
  • Donate books about Down syndrome to your local school or library
  • Talk to your child’s class
  • Arrange for a NADS speaker to give a presentation at your child’s school or at an organization in your community.
  • Contact local media about doing a human interest story about your family or about activities involving people with Down syndrome in your area.
  • Write a letter to your local paper

Prom portrait (2)Organize a special event during October to highlight the gifts of people with Down syndrome—a performance, or an art exhibit or a screening of a movie or video featuring characters with Down syndrome (you could also show the NADS video, Talents that Inspire)

DS awarenessOrganize a “Down Syndrome Awareness Day” at a local restaurant or community event.

The transition to adulthood can be a very difficult time for families living with a person with Down Syndrome. Planning for the future is a critical part of this transition. If you would like more information on estate planning for your family, give C.H. Edwards, Inc. a call at 516-249-5200 or visit our website at www.chedwards.net.

Written by: Denise Visco

Burglar’s Don’t Vacation Like You Do!

Burglar’s Don’t Vacation Like You Do!

Burglary blogFor many Long Island folks, it’s Vacation season! Everyone is headed to their favorite getaway place, but Burglars don’t vacation the way you do. Their favorite “getaway vacation” is your unoccupied home! To make sure your home is protected while you are away, follow some of these simple tips to ensure that you will come home to amity.

  • Stop mail and newspaper delivery or have a neighbor collect them for you while you are away.
  • Have your lawns mowed, so it looks that the home is be kept up with. This is especially important if you are planning a trip where you will be gone for a few weeks.
  • Investing in an automatic timer will help turn your living room lights on and off so that when it gets darker at night, it will appear that someone is in the house.
  • Tell your close neighbors that you will be going away and ask if they can keep an eye on your house.
  • Double bolt your doors before leaving and set your alarm if you have one already installed.
  • If you do not have a burglar alarm already installed, before you leave for your trip invest in installing one.
  • Put cash, jewelry and other valuable items in a safe in your house or a safe deposit box at your bank.

Before leaving for your trip, call your Insurance agency and make sure your coverage is sufficient in-case of a break in! If you do not already have coverage on your valuable items such as your jewelry, furs, cameras and expensive computers, call C.H. Edwards and we will be happy to assist you in finding a policy that fits you, and your needs.

Following these simple steps will protect your home, belongings and your ease of mind while enjoying your vacation with your loved ones.