National Down Syndrome Awareness day is just around the corner on March 21st, since it’s the 21st day of the third month (a reference to the three copies of chromosome 21). 

To learn more about the condition and community we are joined by patient advocate, parent and Nurse, Jenness Stock. Jenness Stock (she/her) is a Nationally Certified School Nurse with a Masters Degree in Nursing Education. She is also a mother of five, and her youngest child had a prenatal diagnosis of Down syndrome. She is an active parent in the Down syndrome advocacy community, notably as a member of the Down Syndrome Diagnosis Network Medical Outreach Team. This team provides medical professionals with the tools and resources needed to discuss Down syndrome in a way that is supportive and educational at every stage. They share the most up-to-date evidence available to guide practitioners in delivering and discussing a diagnosis or screen result. 

Exploring Down Syndrome Advocacy:

• Jenness shares her journey into the Down syndrome advocacy community and highlights the rewarding moments she has experienced as a parent and advocate.

Challenges and Support:

• We delve into the challenges faced by individuals with Down syndrome and their families, discussing ways in which communities can offer support and foster inclusivity.

Navigating Healthcare Conversations:

• Jenness reflects on her own experiences with healthcare providers during the prenatal diagnosis of Down syndrome, offering insights into effective communication and support.

Educating Medical Professionals:

• As a trained nurse, Jenness discusses the intersection of her nursing background with her advocacy work, emphasizing the importance of education and awareness among medical professionals.

Down Syndrome Diagnosis Network:

• Jenness provides valuable insights into the work of the Down Syndrome Diagnosis Network Medical Outreach Team, highlighting key resources and tools provided to medical professionals.

Empowering Parents:

• Jenness offers advice and guidance to parents navigating a prenatal diagnosis of Down syndrome, drawing from her own experiences and journey.

Creating Inclusive Environments:

• We explore the role of schools in creating inclusive environments for students with Down syndrome and other disabilities, discussing strategies for fostering acceptance and support.

Celebrating Down Syndrome Awareness Day:

• As we approach National Down Syndrome Awareness Day, Jenness shares a heartfelt message about the importance of celebrating and supporting individuals with Down syndrome.

As we conclude our conversation with Jenness Stock, we are reminded of the power of advocacy, compassion, and community in embracing and celebrating individuals with Down syndrome. Join us in honoring their unique abilities, contributions, and the joy they bring to our lives.

During the interview Jenness provided resources, check them out below…

Down Syndrome Diagnosis Network's (DSDN) Resource for Medical Professionals 

Form to request materials from DSDN for providers and patients

GiGi’s PlayHouse

We recommend you also check out Glee Actress Lauren Potter on Episode #176. She shares her experience of having Down Syndrome including her advocacy and acting career. 

Stay tuned for the next new episode of DNA Today next Friday! New episodes are released every Friday. In the meantime, you can binge over 280 other episodes on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, streaming on the website, or any other podcast player by searching, “DNA Today”. Episodes since 2021 are also recorded with video which you can watch on our YouTube channel, this includes some episodes recorded at NBC Universal Stamford Studios. 

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