Parents of those with Down syndrome are speaking out about their children beginning to regress when they reach adolescence or adulthood.
Many families in Ireland are affected by Down syndrome regression, a condition marked by the sudden loss of previously acquired abilities that can progress rapidly over weeks or months.
The number of cases of Down syndrome regression is growing, yet in Ireland, there is no clear medical or support pathway for those affected.
Symptoms include loss of speech, motor difficulties, social withdrawal, compulsive behaviours, and in some cases, individuals become non-verbal, unable to care for themselves, or engage in previously enjoyed activities.
Sorcha Ward’s daughter, Aoife, from Co Donegal, was around 18 when she began regressing in 2016.
A once happy, fun-loving, GAA-obsessed young…