Mismatched socks for Down syndrome awareness

Windorites wore their craziest socks to support the Rock your Socks campaign, to increase awareness for those with Down syndrome.

Stephanie Seguin, whose four-year-old daughter Hazel was born with Down syndrome, sees her daughter’s disability as a gift, not a problem.

“I hope to create an environment where people don’t mind talking about difference. Hopefully, when she understands all of this, this community will be more welcoming of her,” Seguin said. “My daughter is beautiful and different. Different is not a bad thing.”

Seguin has been a vocal supporter and promoter of the Rock your Socks campaign. Aside from sharing her family’s story worldwide, she is the organizer for this year’s event at St. Clair College.

“This is an important event for our daughter and my family to raise awareness for Down syndrome,” said Seguin.

“Students donated a few dollars to support our new foundation. We are excited people are helping other people.”

Seguin created the blog Chasing Hazel where she shares her family’s daily life. This year, Seguin and her husband Matt have launched the “Chasing Hazel Foundation” in Windsor. It strives to educate and raise awareness about how important individuals with Down syndrome are to the community.

World Down Syndrome Day is observed on March 21 every year and has been officially recognized by the United Nations since 2012. According to the WDSD website, Down Syndrome International encourages people to say “My Voice, My Community,” enabling people with Down syndrome to speak up, be heard and influence government policy and action.

Anyone interested in supporting the cause can visit www. ChasingHazel. com.