Thousands of Euro has been raised by one Waterford school, to mark World Down Syndrome Day today, Friday March 21st.

Waterford Educate Together National School alongside Down Syndrome Waterford & South Kilkenny came together to raise the vital funds, with over €9,000 raised for Down Syndrome Ireland.

Leading the event was Katie Jacob, a teacher at the school who has been an advocate for the Down Syndrome community for many years. Katie ran 63 kilometers over 21 hours, completing 3 kilometers an hour.

Katie was met by hundreds of students, as she completed her final lap on hour 21 of her journey, concluding at Waterford Educate Together National School.

The event was held in memory of Nichola Aylward, former CEO of Down Syndrome Ireland.

Patrick Pender, Principal, Waterford Educate Together said, “This event is a true reflection of our school’s values—community, inclusion, and perseverance. Run for Dreams is more than just a fundraiser; it’s a movement to ensure that every individual with Down Syndrome receives the support they deserve. We are incredibly proud of Katie and the entire school community for coming together to make this event a success.”
Katie Jacob, Lead Runner & Teacher at Waterford ETNS said, “I am honoured to take on this challenge for a cause so close to my heart. Running for 21 hours may be tough, but it’s nothing compared to the strength, determination, and spirit of individuals with Down Syndrome. Every step of this journey is dedicated to them and their right to dream big.”

Systemic issues

WLR spoke to one parent at the event. Mary Fell and her Son Jamie took part in the activities, however Mary wanted to let her feelings be known about healthcare when it comes to people with Down Syndrome.

Over 7,000 people in Ireland live with the condition, with Ireland having the highest number of babies with Down syndrome at 27.5 out of 10,000 born here according to doctorsolve.com.

Ms. Fell said she is nearly one decade waiting for Jamie to avail of vital health services on the public waiting list.

“Down Syndrome Ireland are great for funding with the likes of physio, and it is difficult to get those services. A lot of people have to go private to get those services, whereas Down Syndrome Ireland will actually cover some of the costs when you have to go private.

“We’re still on a public waiting list. Jamie has had no services in the last seven years since before lockdown, he has had no physio, no speech, no OT.

“Everybody’s on a waiting list  and we’re waiting for a call, and you’re hoping every week you’re going to get a call, you’re ringing. If you need services you’re hoping to find somebody, but you’re just waiting on a call back. It’s even to try and find somebody to take you on as private, because the private list is full as well.”

Down Syndrome Ireland have been advocating for wait times to be decreased when it comes to Down Syndrome Children in Ireland. The #CareCantWait campaign was launched recently, with parents continuing to wait for physio, speech and occupational therapy for their children.

Check out the video from the event below, and tune into WLR News tomorrow and the Big Breakfast Blaa on Monday morning for more on this story.

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