Dating app Glimmer wants to help folks with disabilities find love. More than 4,500 dating service companies exist today, but for Chicago resident Geoff Anderson, it wasn't enough. Dating4Disabled is a free, online dating site that allows users to meet, date and share resources with other people with disabilities. There are no contracts, everything is confidential and the website offers a range of tools, including forums, a messenger service and a smart search function. The options here are fairly standard among online.
March 21 marks World Down Syndrome Day on the Special Needs Calendar. World Down Syndrome Day is a global awareness day which has been officially observed by the United Nations since 2012. The day is is focused on raising awareness for individuals with Down Syndrome. In preparation for World Down Syndrome Awareness Day, we gathered together 42 Down Syndrome resources.
Check out these resources from the web, books, Facebook, Twitter and Pinterest and let us know your favorite Down Syndrome Resource in the comments.
About Down Syndrome
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1. KidsHealth.Org
If you are looking for a good site to help explain Down Syndrome to parents, teens and children, KidsHealth is the place. KidsHealth provides simple explanations about Down Syndrome that is easy for people of all ages to understand.
2. PubMed Health
PubMed Health provides information for consumers and clinicians on prevention and treatment of diseases and conditions. PubMed provides a basic explanation of Down Syndrome including explanations on the causes and effects of Down Syndrome, the Symptoms and treatment of Down Syndrome.
3. WebMD
WebMD gives a comprehensive overview of Down Syndrome and provides parents with basic information about the support and resources you need once your baby is born.
Down Syndrome Organizations
4. National Down Syndrome Society
The National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS) is a nonprofit organization committed to being the national advocate for the value, acceptance, and inclusion of people with Down syndrome. NDSS provides a number of programs and activities including local support groups, Toll-free and email helpline providing information to over 10,000 people a year, and the National Policy Center, the advocacy arm of NDSS which strives to protect the rights and remove barriers for all individuals with Down syndrome.
5. National Down Syndrome Congress
Founded in 1973, the National Down Syndrome Congress is the country's oldest national organization for people with Down syndrome, their families, and the professionals who work with them. They provide information, advocacy and support concerning all aspects of life for individuals with Down syndrome, and work to create a national climate in which all people will recognize and embrace the value and dignity of people with Down syndrome.
6. Down Syndrome International
Down Syndrome International (DSi) is a UK based international charity, comprising a membership of individuals and organisations from all over the world, committed to improving quality of life for people with Down syndrome worldwide and promoting their inherent right to be accepted and included as valued and equal members of their communities. DSI focuses on awareness campaigns and training workshops to educate people about Down Syndrome and be their advocate.
7. The International Down Syndrome Coalition
The International Down Syndrome Coalition is dedicated to serving individuals with Down syndrome from conception throughout their lives. IDSC provides support to families who have been given a prenatal diagnosis of Down syndrome. IDSC also provides up-to-date information, resources and support groups for families with Down Syndrome.
8. Band Of Angels
Established in 1994, Band of Angels provides support for individuals with Down syndrome and their families. Through a commitment to establish greater understand and acceptance, Band of Angels has been the voice of hope, inspiration and independence for persons with Down syndrome.
Down Syndrome Research
9. Down Syndrome Research And Treatment Foundation
The Down Syndrome Research and Treatment Foundation is dedicated to finding a treatment to improve cognition including learning, memory and speech for individuals with Down syndrome. Since their founding in 2004 DSRTF has become the leading private source of funding in the United States for Down syndrome cognition research. The website provides detailed information about the latest down syndrome research and clinical trials as well as information about applying for a research grant from the foundation.
10. Research Down Syndrome
The mission of Research Down Syndrome is to expand and enhance life opportunities for individuals with Down syndrome by funding scientific research directed toward the understanding and amelioration of impaired cognition. Research Down Syndrome educates and inspires a caring society to fund biomedical research findings which will translate into safe and effective, approved therapies to treat the cognitive impairment in individuals with Down Syndrome of all ages.
11. Linda Crnic Institute For Down Syndrome
The Linda Crnic Institute For Down Syndrome is part of the University of Colorado School of Medicine. Their mission is to significantly improve the lives of all people with Down syndrome and eradicate the ill effects associated with Down Syndrome. The institute has plans to be the world's first 'cradle-to-cradle,' fully integrated institute for Down syndrome with the highest quality basic, translational and clinical research, clinical trials, therapeutic development, medical care, education and advocacy in the pursuit of the mission.
12. University of Stanford Center for Down Syndrome Research
The primary goals of the Stanford Center for Down Syndrome Research are to:
A. Promote clinical and basic research programs to understand the underlying causes of learning deficits and communication disabilities in Down syndrome.
B. Develop pharmaceutical and behavioral therapies for individuals with neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative deficits.
C. Offer clinical programs for Down syndrome individuals and their families.
D. Plan and execute clinical trials of promising therapies that can improve the lives of individuals with Down syndrome and their families.
13. UC-San Diego Center for Down Syndrome Treatment and Research
The Down Syndrome Center for Research and Treatment (DSCRT) is one of the first programs in the country to connect academic research with treatment of adults and children with Down syndrome. Their goal is to apply cutting edge basic research to develop treatments that will help people with Down syndrome improve their cognition and forestall the onset of Alzheimer's disease.
Down Syndrome Blogs
14. Enjoying The Small Things
Kelle Hampton uses her writing and photography talents to bring you into her family's life. Enjoying the small things is a great read for moms who have a child with Down Syndrome.
15. Down Wit Dat
Down Wit Dat is a blog by Jen Logan, a mother of three children; a boy and a set of boy/girl twins. One of the twins, Wyatt, was born with Down Syndrome. Jen write about her life, medical research and advocacy for individuals with Down Syndrome.
16. Noahs Dad
Rick Smith documents the journey of his son, Noah through his early life. He also provides resources and tips about Down Syndrome and other special needs topics.
17. Garden of Eagan
Garden of Eagan is a blog about life with a child with Down syndrome. This blog covers the life of an older child with Down syndrome and is very interesting for parents with older children or for those who want to look to the future.
Down Syndrome Books
18. Bloom: Finding Beauty in the Unexpected
Bloom is an inspiring and heartfelt memoir that celebrates the beauty found in the unexpected, the strength of a mother's love, and, ultimately, the amazing power of perspective. The author of the popular blog Enjoying the Small Things—Kelle Hampton interweaves lyrical prose and stunning four-color photography as she recounts the unforgettable story of the first year in the life of her daughter Nella, who has Down syndrome.
19. Expecting Adam: A True Story of Birth, Rebirth, and Everyday Magic
John and Martha Beck had two Harvard degrees apiece when they conceived their second child. When Martha learned her unborn son had Down syndrome, she battled nearly everyone over her decision to continue the pregnancy. By the time her son was born, Martha, as she puts it, 'had to unlearn virtually everything Harvard taught [her] about what is precious and what is garbage.'
20. Down Syndrome Parenting 101: Must-Have Advice for Making Your Life Easier
Down Syndrome Parenting 101 offers inspired takes on a host of important issues, from learning to recognize and celebrate your child's personality and gifts to finding a great teacher for him, and from insisting your child pull his own weight to giving your child his space as an adult.
21. The Year My Son and I Were Born
In The Year My Son and I Were Born, Kathryn Soper takes us along on her personal journey through Thomas's tumultuous first year—as she strives to balance the loss of the child she thought she would have with loyalty for the baby she actually holds in her arms. Can she love Thomas for himself? Can she protect him from the world's insensitivity—and from her own doubts?
22. Road Map To Holland: How I Found My Way Through My Son's First Two Years With Down Syndrome
When Jennifer Groneberg and her husband learned they'd be having twin boys, their main concern was whether they'd need an addition on their house. Then, five days after Avery and Bennett were born, Avery was diagnosed with Down syndrome. This book is a resource, a companion for parents, and above all, a story of the love between a mother and her son-as she learns that Avery is exactly the child she never knew she wanted.
23. Count Us In: Growing Up with Down Syndrome
At ages nineteen and twenty-two, respectively, Jason Kingsley and Mitchell Levitz shared their innermost thoughts, feelings, hopes, and dreams, their lifelong friendship—and their experiences growing up with Down syndrome. Their frank discussion of what mattered most in their lives—careers, friendships, school, sex, marriage, finances, politics, and independence—earned Count Us In numerous national awards, including the EDI Award from the National Easter Seal Society.
Down Syndrome On Facebook
24. Circle 21
Circle 21 was the brainchild of a group of Toronto Moms that saw the need for an organization that would allow families of children with Down Syndrome around the corner from one another and around the world, to meet, exchange best practices, ideas and strategies, and work together to take on increasingly complex issues.
25. IDSC
The International Down Syndrome Coalition provides amazing resources, photos and videos on their Facebook Page. They also offer over a number of Facebook groups with focuses on siblings, friends, family, losses and more.
26. Kids With Down Syndrome
This Facebook page was started so families of kids with Down Syndrome could connect and ask questions, share exciting new milestones, post pictures, or just get support.
27. Down Syndrome in Arts & Media
Down Syndrome in Arts & Media provides a casting liaison service for individuals with Down syndrome and other developmental disabilities who want to be actors and models. On Facebook the post Down Syndrome resources and pictures with a focus on art and entertainment.
Down Syndrome Apps
28. Down Syndrome Family Network
The Down Syndrome Family Network is a network in which parents or caregivers of persons with Down Syndrome are able to access the resources, support and answers they need to educate and develop the full potential of these individuals throughout their lives.
Down Syndrome On Twitter
29. Global Down Syndrome
The Global Down Syndrome Foundation is dedicated to improving the lives of people with Down syndrome by supporting basic clinical & research & clinical care.
30. Canadian Down Syndrome Society
Canadian Down Syndrome Society (CDSS). The CDSS supports self-advocates, parents and families through all stages of life. On Twitter they provide Down Syndrome resources and spread the message of awareness.
Best App For Down Syndrome
31. Pamela Wilson
Resources, advocacy and information on childhood disabilities for families of babies, children, teens and adults. My son has Down syndrome and Type 1 Diabetes.
32. Children's Link
Offering resources and support links to parents and families who have children or young adults with Down Syndrome.
Down Syndrome On Pinterest
There are some amazing Down Syndrome boards on Pinterest. Here are some boards that provide great images, quotes and Down Syndrome Resources.
33. Pedia Staff
34. Little Angels Special School
35. D Park
36. Nancy Streets
37. Suze Black
38. Megan Landmeier
39. Stephanie Martinez
40. Debbie
41. Alyson Dunn
42. Sheri Burger
Dating apps is one of the most popular categories among applications. The market is flooded with dating apps that allow users to find a match based on educational qualification, family background and more. However, most of these apps offer similar features with little or no uniqueness.
But, a new dating app in development claims to be very different from others, and has already created quite a controversy. This new dating app, called digiD8, is the idea of Harvard University geneticist – George Church.
This app is named after the startup behind it digiD8, which was incorporated in September by Barghavi Govindarajan. As per Barghavi's LinkedIn profile, she is the co-founder and CEO of digiD8. The company or the app's name is inspired by D8, which is an internet slang for date.
What makes this app different from others (and controversial as well) is that it matches based on the users' DNA. Yes, you read it right – DNA. Church recently discussed about his DNA-based dating app while talking to CBS '60 Minutes,' suggesting digiD8 is good for the human race.
Church says that his app will help prevent users from being matched with others having some genes that could result in rare genetic diseases. These rare diseases could be cystic fibrosis, which leads to chronic lung infections; Tay-Sachs, which impacts brain and spinal cord nerves; down syndrome; sickle cell anaemia and more.
Most people have a mutant gene, which is different from the usual gene. And, this mutant gene gets passed on to the kids they have. Presence of one such gene does not result in a disease, but two copies of the same gene could cause sickness.
This means, if a child inherits the same mutant gene from both parents, there are more chances of the child to be born with a disease due to the mutant gene. This is what Church aims to eliminate with his DNA-based dating app. Church said on '60 Minutes':
About 5 percent of children are born with a severe genetic disease, and so that means you're compatible with about 95 percent of people
Communication Apps For Down Syndrome
Church believes that his DNA-based dating app will prevent people from having kids with inherited genetic diseases. The researcher even claims that his concept could help purge the world of many genetic diseases.
Though Church's concept of a DNA-based dating app appears noble, critics have valid points against the app as well. Critics mostly argue that such an app would promote eugenics, a philosophy of promoting selective breeding to develop a superior human race.
We can also say that this philosophy is against God's will. Such a philosophy was promoted by Hitler and the Nazis at the time of the Second World War to develop a 'pure' master race. The movement, however, lost steam after end of the Second World War.
Critics have one more valid point against digiD8. According to the critics, if such technology falls into the wrong hand, it could be used for unlawful or unethical purposes as well.
For instance, some may use the technology to locate people with a gene for gender dysphoria and eliminate or discriminate against trans people, people of different color or those with other types of disabilities. Vardit Ravitsky, a bioethicist at the Université de Montréal, said in a blog post:
So I guess this means wiping me out along with millions of other disabled people. Ever considered that having a disease doesn't mean a life that's tragic or full of suffering?
Another concern related to this DNA-based dating app is the confidentiality of the data. It is possible that the app's data falls into the wrong hands, breaching user privacy. Church, however, assures total privacy of the data.
In The Year My Son and I Were Born, Kathryn Soper takes us along on her personal journey through Thomas's tumultuous first year—as she strives to balance the loss of the child she thought she would have with loyalty for the baby she actually holds in her arms. Can she love Thomas for himself? Can she protect him from the world's insensitivity—and from her own doubts?
22. Road Map To Holland: How I Found My Way Through My Son's First Two Years With Down Syndrome
When Jennifer Groneberg and her husband learned they'd be having twin boys, their main concern was whether they'd need an addition on their house. Then, five days after Avery and Bennett were born, Avery was diagnosed with Down syndrome. This book is a resource, a companion for parents, and above all, a story of the love between a mother and her son-as she learns that Avery is exactly the child she never knew she wanted.
23. Count Us In: Growing Up with Down Syndrome
At ages nineteen and twenty-two, respectively, Jason Kingsley and Mitchell Levitz shared their innermost thoughts, feelings, hopes, and dreams, their lifelong friendship—and their experiences growing up with Down syndrome. Their frank discussion of what mattered most in their lives—careers, friendships, school, sex, marriage, finances, politics, and independence—earned Count Us In numerous national awards, including the EDI Award from the National Easter Seal Society.
Down Syndrome On Facebook
24. Circle 21
Circle 21 was the brainchild of a group of Toronto Moms that saw the need for an organization that would allow families of children with Down Syndrome around the corner from one another and around the world, to meet, exchange best practices, ideas and strategies, and work together to take on increasingly complex issues.
25. IDSC
The International Down Syndrome Coalition provides amazing resources, photos and videos on their Facebook Page. They also offer over a number of Facebook groups with focuses on siblings, friends, family, losses and more.
26. Kids With Down Syndrome
This Facebook page was started so families of kids with Down Syndrome could connect and ask questions, share exciting new milestones, post pictures, or just get support.
27. Down Syndrome in Arts & Media
Down Syndrome in Arts & Media provides a casting liaison service for individuals with Down syndrome and other developmental disabilities who want to be actors and models. On Facebook the post Down Syndrome resources and pictures with a focus on art and entertainment.
Down Syndrome Apps
28. Down Syndrome Family Network
The Down Syndrome Family Network is a network in which parents or caregivers of persons with Down Syndrome are able to access the resources, support and answers they need to educate and develop the full potential of these individuals throughout their lives.
Down Syndrome On Twitter
29. Global Down Syndrome
The Global Down Syndrome Foundation is dedicated to improving the lives of people with Down syndrome by supporting basic clinical & research & clinical care.
30. Canadian Down Syndrome Society
Canadian Down Syndrome Society (CDSS). The CDSS supports self-advocates, parents and families through all stages of life. On Twitter they provide Down Syndrome resources and spread the message of awareness.
Best App For Down Syndrome
31. Pamela Wilson
Resources, advocacy and information on childhood disabilities for families of babies, children, teens and adults. My son has Down syndrome and Type 1 Diabetes.
32. Children's Link
Offering resources and support links to parents and families who have children or young adults with Down Syndrome.
Down Syndrome On Pinterest
There are some amazing Down Syndrome boards on Pinterest. Here are some boards that provide great images, quotes and Down Syndrome Resources.
33. Pedia Staff
34. Little Angels Special School
35. D Park
36. Nancy Streets
37. Suze Black
38. Megan Landmeier
39. Stephanie Martinez
40. Debbie
41. Alyson Dunn
42. Sheri Burger
Dating apps is one of the most popular categories among applications. The market is flooded with dating apps that allow users to find a match based on educational qualification, family background and more. However, most of these apps offer similar features with little or no uniqueness.
But, a new dating app in development claims to be very different from others, and has already created quite a controversy. This new dating app, called digiD8, is the idea of Harvard University geneticist – George Church.
This app is named after the startup behind it digiD8, which was incorporated in September by Barghavi Govindarajan. As per Barghavi's LinkedIn profile, she is the co-founder and CEO of digiD8. The company or the app's name is inspired by D8, which is an internet slang for date.
What makes this app different from others (and controversial as well) is that it matches based on the users' DNA. Yes, you read it right – DNA. Church recently discussed about his DNA-based dating app while talking to CBS '60 Minutes,' suggesting digiD8 is good for the human race.
Church says that his app will help prevent users from being matched with others having some genes that could result in rare genetic diseases. These rare diseases could be cystic fibrosis, which leads to chronic lung infections; Tay-Sachs, which impacts brain and spinal cord nerves; down syndrome; sickle cell anaemia and more.
Most people have a mutant gene, which is different from the usual gene. And, this mutant gene gets passed on to the kids they have. Presence of one such gene does not result in a disease, but two copies of the same gene could cause sickness.
This means, if a child inherits the same mutant gene from both parents, there are more chances of the child to be born with a disease due to the mutant gene. This is what Church aims to eliminate with his DNA-based dating app. Church said on '60 Minutes':
About 5 percent of children are born with a severe genetic disease, and so that means you're compatible with about 95 percent of people
Communication Apps For Down Syndrome
Church believes that his DNA-based dating app will prevent people from having kids with inherited genetic diseases. The researcher even claims that his concept could help purge the world of many genetic diseases.
Though Church's concept of a DNA-based dating app appears noble, critics have valid points against the app as well. Critics mostly argue that such an app would promote eugenics, a philosophy of promoting selective breeding to develop a superior human race.
We can also say that this philosophy is against God's will. Such a philosophy was promoted by Hitler and the Nazis at the time of the Second World War to develop a 'pure' master race. The movement, however, lost steam after end of the Second World War.
Critics have one more valid point against digiD8. According to the critics, if such technology falls into the wrong hand, it could be used for unlawful or unethical purposes as well.
For instance, some may use the technology to locate people with a gene for gender dysphoria and eliminate or discriminate against trans people, people of different color or those with other types of disabilities. Vardit Ravitsky, a bioethicist at the Université de Montréal, said in a blog post:
So I guess this means wiping me out along with millions of other disabled people. Ever considered that having a disease doesn't mean a life that's tragic or full of suffering?
Another concern related to this DNA-based dating app is the confidentiality of the data. It is possible that the app's data falls into the wrong hands, breaching user privacy. Church, however, assures total privacy of the data.
According to Church, even the person submitting the data won't know about his or her DNA results. Talking of how digiD8 works, users will have to submit their saliva sample to a lab, which would then run genetics tests on the specimen to find out the genetic diseases the user may have.
Thereafter, the app uses that data for the match making, or, we can say matches to a user who doesn't have those same disease genes. This lowers the chances of the disease being passed onto the future children.
Further, defending his app against accusations of promoting eugenics, Church argues that digiD8 in no way is related to eugenics as it does not promote forced sterilization, breeding, and extermination. Also, he argues that his app is open to all, and is not against 'not so serious diseases' that are helpful in ensuring diversity.
But if [a baby] has some very serious genetic disease that causes a lot of pain and suffering, costs millions of dollars to treat and they still die young, that's what we're trying to deal with
Advocates of Church's dating app say it is similar to genetic counseling, which some couples already make use of. Critics, however, argue that while counseling help couples decide whether or not to have a baby, the digiD8 would prevent users from meeting in the first place.
A point to note is that Church's dating app concept is not a new thing. Pheramor is also a DNA-based dating app that uses DNA swab tests and algorithm for match making. The app is now over a year old, but its number of users is nothing when compared to the usual dating app such as Tinder and Bumble.
Church's digiD8 is still in the development phase. But, considering the controversy and buzz it has already generated, it will be interesting to see whether or not this app makes to the real world. And, if it launches, the response to it, as well as, its impact on the society will be something to watch for.
Do let us know in the comments section below, what you feel about such DNA-based dating app.
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