In Praise Of The ``Buddy Walk''

Floor Speech

(Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania asked and was given permission to address the House for 1 minute and to revise and extend his remarks.)

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to praise the ``Buddy Walk'' being held this Saturday in State College, Pennsylvania. It is sponsored by the Centre County Down Syndrome Society. The society exists to be a resource for families with a child with Down syndrome and for those who are expecting a child with Down syndrome. Their goal is to educate friends, relatives and even communities that individuals with Down syndrome are energetic, capable and loving people who play, work and go to school just like the rest of us.

The statistics on their Web site change some of the preconceived stereotypes many people have. For example, half of all Down syndrome children go to mainstream school classes, one out of every five plays a musical instrument, and three out of five know how to operate a computer.

I am a member of the Congressional Down Syndrome Caucus who supports legislative activities that would improve Down syndrome research, education, treatment and promote public policies that would enhance the quality of life for those with Down syndrome.

The Centre County Down Syndrome Society does a great deal to educate people that those with Down syndrome do lead productive lives, and they deserve to be commended.

END

Source