Santry boy features in calendar

A NORTHSIDE boy is featured in a 2014 calendar the proceeds of which will go towards the opening of a new centre dedicated to children with Down syndrome.

The Down Syndrome Centre has launched its first calendar, entitled

‘I’m Able2’, which concentrates on children’s abilities rather than their disabilities.

The calendar features portraits of 34 children with Down syndrome from all over Ireland showcasing their abilities.

Among the talented group is Liam Caseiro, from Santry, who is

‘able2 make a difference’, and is the January model.

Each picture was taken during the summer with families travelling to Priory Studios in Stillorgan, where Dominic Lee donated his time and expenses to the project.

All proceeds of the calendar will go towards securing a premises that will be home to the Down Syndrome Centre.

Once opened, the centre will provide essential services to children with Down syndrome and their families. These will include physiotherapy, speech and language therapy and occupational therapy, as well as workshops and seminars for parents.

The centre will also create an opportunity for networking for parents of children with Down syndrome in a supportive and informed environment, with plans to include a respite facility. There is no such centre in Ireland and they rely entirely on public donations in order to make it a reality.

Sharon Dagg, chief executive of the Down Syndrome Centre, said they were very proud of the project and were very grateful to all the families that submitted an entry to be a part of the calendar.

“It is important to us that we highlight the abilities of children with Down syndrome which is central to the Down Syndrome Centre’s ethos,

? stated Ms Dagg.

“We believe that with access to the correct services and tools required in their early development, children with Down syndrome are able to reach their full potential; singing, dancing, riding a bike or representing their country as the calendar shows.

“By purchasing a calendar you will be helping to open the first centre dedicated to children with Down syndrome in Ireland.

?

To purchase a calendar or to find out more about the Down Syndrome Centre, visit www.downsyndromecentre.ie/shop. The calendars will also be available in Avoca stores across Ireland in the coming weeks and are priced at

?¬7.99.