In celebration of World Down Syndrome Day on 21 March, Cayman's T21 NPO will host the inaugural T21 Walk, Run, Scoot and Push event on Sunday, 23 March, at Camana Bay. The organisation aims to raise CI$50,000 annually to support families in need of educational or medical assistance while promoting awareness of individuals with Down Syndrome.
Founded by Kesrene Estrella-Dabrio and Desiree Jacob, T21 NPO is named after trisomy 21, the genetic condition that causes Down Syndrome.
“We started T21 NPO to create a space where everyone is celebrated and supported,” Jacob said. “Our mission is to assist families needing therapies, medical help or opportunities for social inclusion. Everyone deserves to feel valued and included.”
This inaugural event takes place during the organisation’s first anniversary weekend.
“We launched on 21 March 2024, World Down Syndrome Day, also known as Rock Your Socks Day,” Estrella-Dabrio said. “We designed this event to be inclusive, welcoming people of all ages and abilities, from infants in strollers to seniors on scooters.”
The event begins at Next Chapter at 6 a.m., offering participants a choice between a 1-mile loop or a 5K route. Refreshments and giveaways will be available at the finish line.
“We want to help families where their pockets are running short,” Estrella-Dabrio said. “Many in our community can’t participate in activities due to their additional needs. This event is about creating opportunities for everyone to enjoy life to the fullest.”
T21 NPO has partnered with the Department of Children and Family Services, Golden Age Home and the Alzheimer’s and Dementia Association of the Cayman Islands for the event.
Register today by visiting https://t21npo.com/local-events/ or follow @T21Cayman on social media or email info@t21npo.com to learn more.
This article was first published in the February/March 2025 print edition of Camana Bay Times.