Brain scan identifies patterns of plaques and tangles in adults with Down syndrome

Researchers have outlined the connection between Down syndrome and Alzheimer's disease. For instance, all persons with Down syndrome show signs of the brain pathology of Alzheimer's disease by the age of 40. Persons with Down syndrome are 3-5 times more likely to develop Alzheimer's disease, with earlier age of onset. A recently published study from UCLA describes the development of a chemical marker called FDDNP that binds to both plaque and tangle deposits, allowing neuro-imaging that provides a tool to track pathologies in Down syndrome related to Alzheimer's disease.

RDS Golf Classic

This event was preceded on the evening of June 15 by the Texas Twilight for Down Syndrome reception featuring live and silent auctions.

A highlight of the golf awards dinner was the speech given by Lyndon LaPlante, an avid golfer and all around athlete.  LaPlante said that when people look at him they often “only see all the things that they think I cannot do.,”  He emphasized that he loves to compete in a number of sports, including golf, baseball, basketball, football, track and field, and swimming.  “I coach football, and in late April I gave a golf lesson to Gov. Rick Perry,” he continued.  “So maybe when you look at me now, you will see the young man with all the possibilities, not (the young man) with all the limitations.”

On the event, Patty Watson remarked: “The success of this tourney was made possible through the caring and generosity of more than 130 golfers, 200 auction attendees, numerous corporate and personal sponsors, and a group of dedicated volunteers,” she added. “We are deeply grateful, absolutely amazed and humbled. “

RDS is grateful for the continuing support of Patty and Paul, and so many dedicated volunteers.

We are blessed to have so many amazing sponsors this year! Thank you for making a difference for all people with Down syndrome.

Congratulations Marathoners, and Thank You, Team Flynn!

A group of amazing men and women from the Washington, D.C. area, Team Flynn, headed to San Diego and ran the San Diego Rock n Roll Half Marathon to support RDS and Down syndrome cognitive research.  The marathon, which took place on Sunday, June 5, started at Balboa Park and finished at Sea World.  The following day, Team Flynn limped over to an appreciation party, hosted by RDS, where they learned more about the promise of Down syndrome cognitive research.  Thank you, Erin Fry, for organizing this event, and all of Team Flynn.

If you are interested in participating in RDS Runners' events(upcoming events are the San Francisco Marathon on July 31 and Chicago Marathon, October 9), or would like to organize an RDS runners' event, contact us at info@researchds.org.

RDS Ambassador, Patty Watson, in the News

What a great story on Patty Watson, a strong supporter of placing persons with disabilities in the work force, and an RDS Ambassador, who has worked tirelessly to support Down syndrome cognitive research.

For more information on how you can assist the support of Down syndrome cognitive research as an RDS Ambassador, contact us at info@researchds.org

First Annual Libretti

The golf event was followed by cocktails, a buffet dinner and award ceremony. RDS thanks the event organizers, including Mark Piserchio and Jack Dean for organizing this event.

San Diego Rock

The marathon, which took place on Sunday, June 5, started at Balboa Park and finished at Sea World. The following day, Team Flynn limped over to an appreciation party, hosted by RDS, where they learned more about the promise of Down syndrome cognitive research. Thank you, Erin Fry, for organizing this event, and all of Team Flynn.

If you are interested in participating in RDS Runners’ events(upcoming events are the San Francisco Marathon on July 31 and Chicago Marathon, October 9), or would like to organize an RDS runners’ event, contact us at 877-863-2121.

Infosys Hosts Walkathon in Charlotte

Approximately 200 walkers from Infosys Technologies, Bank of America, Down Syndrome Association of Charlotte, and RDS participated.  A generous sponsorship check was given to RDS by John Daly, Senior Engagement Manager of Infosys. RDS greatly appreciates the support of Infosys, and its belief in the promise of Down syndrome cognitive research, and looks forward to continuing this partnership to support research that truly has the opportunity to increase life opportunities for persons with Down syndrome.