Mother says state program gives comfort in raising child with Down syndrome

by Victor R. Martinez from The El Paso Times:
Gaby Escobar knows first hand how important the It-Takes-a-Village concept is.
In this case, "the village" consists of speech/language, occupational and physical therapists from Early Childhood Intervention — or ECI.
Escobar's two-year-old daughter Analuisa, who was born with Down syndrome, has been a part of the program since she was a few months old.
"I could not imagine raising her without this help," she said. "I'm very proud of the work all the team — the therapist, the family and Analuisa — have put in. I am very grateful for all the help and love that they have shown us. They have become our family."
ECI is a statewide program for families with children, birth to 3-years-old, with disabilities and developmental delays.
ECI supports families to help their children reach their potential through developmental services. Services are provided by a variety of local agencies and organizations across Texas.
"She has had a speech and language pathologist since she was born," Escobar said. "She can say about 17 words and 27 more in sign language. Her first words where 'papa.' She's in love with her papa."

39th Annual NDSC Convention

It's not too late to register to attend the NDSC's 39^th annual convention in San Antonio! The "Deep in the Heart" convention takes place August 5-7 at the JW Marriott Hill Country. While registration is closed for the Youth and Adults Conference, Brothers and Sisters Conference and Kids' Camp program, registration is open until July 15 for the General Convention and pre-conference sessions.

Each year, thousands of people from across the globe attend the National Down Syndrome Congress Annual Convention.  For most, it’s to hear the latest information from world-renowned experts.  For others, it’s a great vacation. But, for nearly all, there’s the one-of-a-kind NDSC family reunion feeling that permeates the convention weekend.

This August, the annual convention will be Deep in the Heart, in San Antonio, Texas, home of the Alamo, Sea World, Six Flags, Fiesta Texas, Morgan’s Wonderland, and, of course, the world-famous River Walk.

The General Convention offers parents and professionals an opportunity to learn from the best speakers from around the world and share experiences with one another.  To enhance the convention experience our Pre-conference Sessions offer an opportunity to go in-depth on a single topic.

Teens and adults with Down syndrome will be empowered at the Youth & Adults Conference.  Siblings of individuals with Down syndrome will have a chance to learn and be heard at the Brothers and Sisters Conference. This year, we’ll be offering Kids’ Camp, a supervised place for  younger kids to gather while the rest of the family attends conference workshops.  It truly is like a giant family reunion!