“Light the Way” Campaign Endorsed by Governor First Spouses to Support Advances in Biomedical Research to Treat Down Syndrome Cognitive Impairment

Mary Pat Christie

New Jersey Governor First Lady Mary Pat Christie was joined by First Spouses across the country in sponsoring the Light the Way event on March 21. Mrs. Christie announced the event February 28, 2011 at the First Spouse Breakfast in Washington DC. See Press Release (PDF)

This program was officially launched on World Down Syndrome Day, March 21, 2011, bringing attention to the rapidly advancing area of Down syndrome cognitive research, which holds great promise for improving memory, learning and communication for individuals of all ages with Down syndrome.

On the evening of that day, participating First Spouses lit their respective governor residences in the color blue, or recognized the event in a variety of other ways in order to bring greater attention to Down syndrome cognitive research.  Participation included: Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Guam, Kansas, Massachusetts, Mississippi, Nebraska, Nevada, North Dakota, Ohio, Puerto Rico, Texas, Washington, West Virginia and Wisconsin. The goals of the Light the Way program are to expand awareness of Down syndrome cognitive research, including the efforts of Research Down Syndrome (RDS) to fund this research. Mrs. Christie noted that she endorses the Light the Way campaign because she is inspired by initiatives designed to empower individuals in her state and she is pleased to be joined by other First Spouses in increasing awareness about this research which brings a fresh approach to the complex issues related to the needs of those with intellectual disabilities.

Research Down Syndrome is excited by the interest within the community about the promise of Down syndrome cognitive research and is pleased to be a part of the ongoing efforts to increase opportunities for those with Down syndrome. It is our hope that the national attention the First Spouse initiative brings to the Light the Way campaign will motivate increased support for RDS’ efforts to educate and increase awareness and funding for Down syndrome cognitive research – motivating not only the Down syndrome community, but also the general public to support RDS’ work to empower individuals with intellectual disabilities to reach their fuller potential and lead more independent lives. 

Together we can bring renewed attention to Down syndrome cognitive research and the tremendous potential it holds for people of all ages with Down syndrome.

Drumthwacket Manor, Official Residence of the Governor of New Jersey.