Public support for World Down Syndrome Awareness Day observed in Antigua and Barbuda on March 21 continues to grow annually. While this year’s central theme was “Improve our Support Systems,” participants also embraced the traditional “Lots of Socks” campaign, wearing multi-colored socks to raise awareness.
For the second consecutive year, CIBC Caribbean staff not only participated by wearing colorful socks but also contributed EC$2,500 to the Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre (SLBMC) to support their work with Down Syndrome.
Dr Saleem Hughes, Chair of the Pediatric Department at SLBMC, expressed gratitude for the donation: “On behalf of the Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre, as well as our patients and their families, we extend our sincere gratitude to CIBC for their generous contribution to our cause. Your support is greatly appreciated, and we encourage other institutions to follow suit as we work towards enhancing our support systems moving forward.
Let us be the catalyst for the change we wish to see in Antigua and Barbuda, inspiring others to follow our lead in making a positive impact.”
Jesseca Ormond Byers, Human Resources Officer at CIBC Caribbean, emphasized the bank’s commitment to community involvement: “We are so privileged to be here for the second successive year, to offer our support to the staff at SLBMC and to thank you for your dedication. We encourage individuals and organizations to champion the rights and dignity of individuals with Down Syndrome, not just today, but every day. Our collective efforts will continue to make a positive difference.”
She added that CIBC Caribbean “reaffirms its dedication to support these initiatives as we strongly believe in social corporate responsibility.”
World Down Syndrome Day has been observed annually on March 21 since 2007. The date (21/3) symbolizes the triplication of the 21st chromosome that causes Down Syndrome. The United Nations General Assembly has officially recognized the observance since 2012.
