‘Happy Walk’ for Down syndrome

MANILA, Philippines - Arthur Ryan Dee is more than just your ordinary kind of guy.

The 25-year-old professional is dedicated to his job in a trucking firm and finds time for his passions – bowling and painting.

He is a smart and fun guy to talk to, as are most persons with Down syndrome.

Ryan, a graduate of office information management from a popular computer school, admits doing his tasks at work can sometimes be challenging.

“It’s a little bit tough, but I can work it,” he told The STAR yesterday.

His mother Rosanna revealed that Ryan has other talents: swimming and badminton.

She admitted having a child with Down syndrome brought luck to their family, though not in a financial sense.

“We were lucky and privileged because raising him taught us the real virtue of patience,” she said.

According to Mrs. Dee, the secret to successfully raising children with Down syndrome is to “treat them as normal as possible.”

Ryan was just one of many faces of the 12th “Happy Walk” held at the Skydome of SM North EDSA in Quezon City yesterday.

Hundreds joined the annual event organized by the Down Syndrome Association of the Philippines (DSAPI), a non-profit organization founded by parents and physicians in 1991, aimed to support families who have children with Down syndrome.

Happy Walk was highlighted by a parade inside SM North Edsa and special performances by children with Down syndrome.

The children were then treated to a fun-filled party, raffles and activity booths in the afternoon.

Every February, the DSAPI organizes several events to celebrate National Down Syndrome Consciousness Month, including the “Tee-Up For Down” golf tournament, A Day with the Philippine Air Force and “Look Up for Down” art exhibit.