March 2019

Another 3.21 Is In the bOoks!

Annually, World Down Syndrome Day (WDSD) is observed on March 21st – a date formally recognized by the United Nations to signify the uniqueness of the triplication (trisomy) of the 21st chromosome which causes DS.  This year, we celebrated 3.21 in style at the Elk’s Club, as we were joined by local families who all share one thing in common…a family member who rocks their 21st chromosome!  This annual event serves as a celebration, an informal support group, and another opportunity for us to strengthen community connections. Food, dancing, games and comradery made for a memorable evening.

Read below to see how some of our supporters from near and far rocked the day away!

  • Caitlyn Marchesani, a Rock supporter, participated in the National Down Syndrome Society’s (NDSS) “virtual’ racing event. The event encouraged participants to run, walk, bike, hike, swim and/or move for 3.21 miles at any time, any place and at any pace to celebrate WDSD and raise awareness for the DS community. Caitlyn and her team donated their proceeds to the NDSS and didn’t let the rain on 3.21 stop them from trekking from “the Bull, over the Brooklyn Bridge, to Barclay’s”!

  • Led by Rachel Bello, Aunt to Rocker Alicia, the Carlstadt NJ Education Association hosted a WDSD rock your crazy socks fundraiser in honor of Rock the 21. By wearing colorful, spirited socks, they educated their fellow teachers and students about DS, and helped spread the message we are all more alike than different.

  • For the second year in a row, employees at Newport Vineyards in Newport, RI, rocked their crazy socks on 3.21! Organized by Rock supporter, Allison Wilke, the team at Newport Vineyards has made celebrating WDSD an annual tradition. The crazy socks sparked conversation and raised awareness among all who visited the Vineyard on 3.21. All proceeds were generously donated to Rock the 21.

  • Finally, Rockin’ Socks events continued west with employees from Kingdom Capital in St. Louis, MO, including Rockin’ Aunt Michelle Hackmann, sporting their most fashionable, rocking socks.

How did you celebrate WDSD? Send us your story at rockthe21ds@gmail.com.