Sofia Sanchez, 7, has Down Syndrome. But unlike the other kids who are shy and ashamed for having the disorder, she strongly believes that it's making her special.
Sofia's mom, Jennifer Sanchez, reaches out to her family and friends as part of Down Syndrome Awareness Month celebration, CBS News learned. Instead speaking for her kids, this time she let her daughter's voice be heard.
Sofia knew that she has Down Syndrome. At this early age, she may not be aware that it is genetic but she understands that it's in her blood. This little bundle of joy explained that having Down Syndrome is not scary. In fact, it's exciting and it makes her special.
Sanchez said that Sofia is fond of acting, dancing and all other stuff that girls her age normally do. But the thing she loves the most is speaking up for her people.
Down Syndrome is a life-long disorder caused by a problem in the gene, according to WebMD. Children with this disorder have similar features, like having a flat face and a short neck.
Other chromosome problems may cause Down Syndrome but usually, children affected by this disorder have 47 chromosomes. The extra or abnormal chromosome affects the way the body and brain develop.
The exact cause of Down Syndrome is yet to be determined but experts believe that there are certain risk factors. These include a woman getting pregnant at the age of 35 or older, having siblings or having another baby with the same disorder.
Down Syndrome is diagnosed through a series of screening and diagnostic tests. It has been learned that many children born with this disorder may also have heart, ear, intestine or breathing problems.
There is already an increase in support for people affected by Down Syndrome in the United States. Hundreds of community members joined the recent Buddy Walk in Webster, New York - a one mile walk aims to raise awareness and money for programs to help the individuals with Down Syndrome and their families, Time Warner Cable News reported.
