NZ Down Syndrome Association honours Dame Patsy as part of 40th anniversary

The New Zealand Down Syndrome Association (NZDSA) sent a heartfelt message of gratitude to Her Excellency Dame Patsy Reddy for her support as the Patron of the organisation, as part of our Down Syndrome Awareness Month celebrations. October marked the 40th anniversary of the NZDSA, who have supported families and advocated for people with Down Syndrome since 1981. Dame Patsy finished her term as Governor General of New Zealand in October, and NZDSA President Kim Porthouse says that the 40th anniversary of NZDSA was a terrific opportunity to also mark the terrific contributions by its distinguished Patron. “On behalf of all our members, staff, and the wider Down syndrome community, we want to send a genuine message of thanks to Her Excellency Dame Patsy Reddy, and we would like to wish her every success in her future endeavours,” says Porthouse.

The NZDSA President says that her community has appreciated Her Excellency partnering with the NZDSA to promote its vision that people with Down syndrome are respected, valued, and equal members of their community, fulfilling their potential and aspirations. “Dame Patsy’s participation in the work of the NZDSA has assisted to change the attitudes and perceptions of the wider population, so that communities are more welcoming and include people with Down syndrome.” Porthouse is particularly grateful for the Governor-General hosting the annual National Award ceremonies and presenting the Achievement Awards to people with Down syndrome. “Being able to come to Government House and be hosted by the GovernorGeneral acknowledges the significance of these national achievements and serves to convey the important message that people with Down syndrome are worthy and contributing members of their community,” says Porthouse, adding that Her Excellency’s support of World Down Syndrome Day has facilitated greater awareness about the aspirations and abilities of people with Down syndrome. The NZDSA started from a humble coffee group in Auckland in 1981 and marked its 40th anniversary with the largest Virtual Down Syndrome Conference ever hosted in New Zealand. The conference offered webinars throughout October to cover a huge variety of important topics around health, employment, decision-making, relationships and well-being. Porthouse says that the scope and variety of the webinars was unparalleled in NZDSA’s long history, and was also a wonderful opportunity for the Down syndrome community to connect after the traumatic events in Auckland.

Left: Edward Borkin and Erin Smith hand out flowers to the Dame Patsy Reddy and Sir David Gascoigne at Government House

Right: Her Excellency Dame Patsy Reddy and Sir David Gascoigne with the winners of the 2021 NZDSA National Achievement Awards at Government House