From left to right:Jaden and Friends member, Ms. Tin Garcia of Peridot’s Medical Supply, Ms. Mely V. Manalo (Manager & Publisher, Dyaryo Veritas Batangas), Ms. Lauren Costabile (Founder & Executive Director, Hearts of Joy International), Ms. Christiana Molnar (Cardiac Nurse, Hearts of Joy Foundation), alongside Down Syndrome patients.
BATANGAS CITY – IN a heartfelt celebration of World Down Syndrome Day, international and local organizations came together to raise awareness and provide medical support for children with Down
syndrome and congenital heart defects.
The Hearts of Joy International and Jaden and Friends Inc., in
collaboration with Dyaryo Veritas Inc., hosted an Educational Forum and Medical Screening on March 23, 2025, at the Batangas KIPSI Memorial School.
The event opened with a solemn Mass led by Father Miguel Samaniego, setting a reflective tone for the day. Following the service, the forum commenced with Dr. Louisa Joan Go, a Pediatric Interventional Cardiologist, delivering the welcome remarks, emphasizing the importance of early diagnosis and medical
intervention for children with Down syndrome.
One of the most moving moments of the forum was the speech by Mr. Luis Harder, President of the Down Syndrome Association of the Philippines, Inc. He shared his personal journey as a father of a
child with Down syndrome, highlighting the emotional challenges parents face upon diagnosis.
“Many parents experience denial at first,” Harder admitted. “Caring for a child with Down syndrome requires extra patience and dedication. But the trauma of the diagnosis lasts only a short moment—while the joy of raising them lasts forever.”
Understanding Down Syndrome and Its Challenges
Leading the discussion on Down syndrome was Ms. Lauren Costabile, Founder and Executive Director of Hearts of Joy International. She explained that Down syndrome is a genetic condition caused by an extra copy of chromosome 21. This additional chromosome influences a child's development, including their cognitive abilities and physical features.
Ms. Christiana Molnar, a Cardiac Nurse from Hearts of Joy International, further shed light on the medical complications associated with Down syndrome. She pointed out that 50% of children with Down syndrome are born with congenital heart defects, many of which require surgical intervention.
Free Medical Screening for Children
While the forum was ongoing, a team of doctors from the National Children’s Hospital and Delos Santos Hospital, led by Dr. Louisa Joan Go, conducted free 2D echocardiography screenings for 68 children from various towns and cities in Batangas. This initiative aimed to detect heart conditions early, ensuring timely medical care for affected children.
A Collaborative Effort for a Noble Cause
The success of the Heart & Down Syndrome Batangas Pedia-Cardio Screening was made possible
through the joint efforts of multiple organizations and institutions, including:
Hearts of Joy International
Jaden and Friends Inc.
Dyaryo Veritas (Batangas) Inc.
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints
Down Syndrome Association of the Philippines, Inc.
National Children’s Hospital & Center for Pediatric and Congenital Heart Diseases
Batangas District Eagles Club, represented by Mr. Angel Balmes, BDEC District Governor
Gardner School of Multiple Intelligence
Filipino-Chinese Chamber of Commerce, President, Mr. Willy Wong
Batangas KIPSI Memorial School, President, Mr. Jack Co
Through these collective efforts, the event not only provided medical assistance but also fostered greater understanding and acceptance of individuals with Down syndrome.
As the event concluded, the message was clear: children with Down syndrome deserve love, support, and access to proper healthcare. With continued efforts from advocacy groups and medical professionals, more families will receive the help they need, ensuring a brighter and healthier future for their children.
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