Tabish Shahzad

Karachi Down Syndrome Program (KDSP) is an organization formed by a group of concerned parents and passionate individuals advocating the value, acceptance and inclusion of people with Down syndrome living in Karachi and to provide them with the opportunity to lead fulfilling lives. KDSP intends to do its part by: 1. Spreading awareness about Down Syndrome: - Distribution of literature relating to Down Syndrome in schools, hospitals and other relevant institutions - Holding events such as teacher training workshops and seminars - Educating parents through theme based meetings and events - Highlighting success stories of people having Down Syndrome through electronic and social media 2. Creating a Parent Support Group: KDSP creates a forum where parents of children having Down Syndrome can get together and help each other through sharing of resources, words of advice or simply by lending an ear in understanding each others’ circumstances. KDSP also initiated a Parent First Call Program whereby new and expecting parents who already have a Down Syndrome diagnosis have the opportunity to connect with other parents of children with Down Syndrome and receive support. 3. By Providing Early Intervention Support: Early intervention aims to enhance the development of infants through a systematic program of therapy, exercises and activities designed to address developmental delays that may be experienced by children with Down syndrome. The most common early intervention services for babies with Down syndrome are physical therapy, speech therapy, and occupational therapy. KDSP intends to focus on these three forms of therapy by aligning ourselves with various therapy centres, clinics and hospitals in Karachi to provide early intervention support to children with Down Syndrome. We intend to develop strategic affiliations with these institutions in order to allow our members easy access to these facilities across Karachi. Websitehttp://www.kdsp.org.pk