A collaborative initiative of the Autism Society of Colorado and the Mile High Down Syndrome Association.

“Providing Education, Support and Inspiration for the Journey”

MISSION: The mission of The DS-Autism Connection is to provide specialized education and support to parents, teachers, health care providers - and anyone else - caring for individuals faced with the unique challenges caused by the Down syndrome/autism dual diagnosis (DS-ASD).

WHO and WHERE: The DS-Autism Connection is the collaborative initiative of the Autism Society of Colorado (ASC) and the Mile High Down Syndrome Association (MHDSA). Additional support is provided by dynamic experts in the field from JFK Partners, The Children’s Hospital – Denver, and the Denver Adult Down Syndrome Clinic.  Those benefiting from The DS-Autism Connection include Colorado parents, guardians, caregivers, educators, health care providers, service coordinators, clergy, and others, providing care to children and adults with the DS-ASD dual diagnosis and/or complex and bewildering behaviors.

ABOUT THE DS-ASD DUAL DIAGNOSIS: Down syndrome and autism are both equal opportunity disabilities – meaning that anyone, anywhere, regardless of race, creed or socio-economic status, can have a child with either condition. Down syndrome occurs once in every 733 live births, making it the most commonly-occurring chromosomal condition and cause of cognitive disability.  It is believed that between 5%-10% of those born with Down syndrome also fall somewhere on the autism spectrum.  Some providers are convinced that the number is much higher, perhaps closer to 20%.

Children and adults living with DS-ASD are an under-served and often misunderstood population.  Parents often know in their hearts that something is amiss, but they are unaware that there may actually be a diagnosis to confirm their worries – and answers to their many questions.  They may feel totally alone and overwhelmed as they observe other children with Down syndrome growing and developing according to expectations.  Teachers may become frustrated and overwhelmed without the tools and resources they need to ensure the success of their dually-diagnosed students. Some may even refuse to include such a child in their classroom.  Or worse, children may miss out completely on proven educational strategies such as early intervention and supplemental therapies.  Healthcare providers are often-times reluctant to suggest a second diagnosis and may even be unaware that the two conditions may co-occur.  Through The DS-Autism Connection we aim to dispel the myths and misconceptions by providing education and support, and working collaboratively to find real solutions to every day challenges.  We want every person caring for a child or adult with DS-ASD to know that there is help and there is hope – and they do not have to travel this journey alone.

2010 Offerings:

o         Family Nights at Beau Jo’s Pizza in Arvada every other month. (See Event Calendar)

o         Coffee Connection discussion groups every other month. (See Event Calendar)

o         Online Support Group – http://health.groups.yahoo.com/group/colorado_ds_autism_connection/

o         Facebook – The Down Syndrome-Autism Connection.  Become a “fan”, get valuable updates and post pics.

o         End-of-Summer Picnic  - To be determined

o         Fall Conference – To be determined

Need more information?  Please contact Robin Zaborek.