Las Vegas – Down Syndrome Las Vegas (DSCLV) announces DS>>>C24, the 3rd Annual Las Vegas Down Syndrome C, to be held Saturday, October 12 at UNLV’s Kirk Kerkorian School of Medicine. Dedicated to empowering the Down syndrome community, this full-day event promises a day of cutting-edge research presentations, expert insights, and meaningful.
From 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., DS>>>C24 will offer a comprehensive program tailored to medical professionals, educators, social workers, families, and individuals with Down syndrome. The c, made possible through the generous support of the Thomas Nelson Abdella, MD, Foundation and UNLV, aims to bridge the gap between the latest research and practical, everyday care.
“DS>>>C24 represents our commitment to providing the Down syndrome community with the most current, evidence-based information,” says Lisa Holmquist, Founder and CEO of DSCLV. “This year, we’re especially excited to hear from Brian Skotko, Director of the Down Syndrome Center at Massachusetts General Hospital and unveil groundbreaking research developments that could revolutionize care practices.”
The event features an impressive lineup of key speakers, each bringing unique expertise to the forefront:
Dr. Brian Skotko, who in addition to his duties at the Down Syndrome Center in Boston is an adjunct professor at Harvard University Medical School, will open the c with his presentation “Celebrating Life With Down Syndrome” and discuss the virtual Down Syndrome Clinic To You (DSC2U) service.
Terri Couwenhoven, MS, CSE, a respected educator in puberty and sexuality for people with Down syndrome, will lead sessions on relationships, puberty, and dating basics.
The Improvaneer Method team will conduct an interactive improv skills workshop, demonstrating innovative approaches to enhancing communication and social skills development. The team features Nick and Audrey, two adults with Down syndrome who are improv pros.
A major highlight of the c will be an exclusive presentation by Dr. Thessa Hilgenkamp, Assistant Professor and Researcher at UNLV’s Department of Physical Therapy. Dr. Hilgenkamp will officially unveil the findings of a groundbreaking study on the impact of physical activity for individuals with Down syndrome, offering insights that promise to enhance quality of life and care strategies.
DS>>>C24 offers concurrent sessions throughout the day designed specifically for teens and adults with Down syndrome, aged 13 and up. This inclusive approach ensures that individuals with Down syndrome are active participants in their own learning and community building while parents and caregivers are attending sessions built for their interests.
“Our goal is to create an environment where everyone – from teachers and medical professionals to family members and individuals with Down syndrome – can learn, c, and leave feeling empowered,” Holmquist adds. “Our diverse program’s goal is to enrich the lives of individuals with Down syndrome and their families, from childhood through adulthood, fostering a vibrant community of learning, growth, and celebration.”
Early bird registration is available until August 31, at $70 per person. After this date, general admission will be $75, with a discounted rate of $50 for individuals with Down syndrome.
For more information and to register, visit http://www.downsyndrome.org/c.