Running The Air Force Marathon

Research Down Syndrome funds and supports scientific research at leading institutions that are studying the basis of intellectual impairments in Down syndrome. One of the ways they are doing this is with the RDS Runners program. They are charity sponsors with various marathons around the country.

Last year my husband, Joe, completed his first marathon -the Air Force Marathon - as a runner for RDS. He also completed the Disney Half Marathon in Jan. Joe will once again be running in the Air Force Marathon on Sep 21st and raising money for Research Down Syndrome.

Down syndrome is one of the most common genetic conditions, but one of the least funded in the NIH. Research in Down syndrome isn't just DS-specific but extends to research connected with Alzheimer's and leukemia.

There are several current research studies happening now that are focusing on the why and how having the extra chromosome causes delays for people with Down syndrome; including how to 'turn off' the extra expression that happens in specific genes.

Research like this could possibly lead to medical therapies for intellectual disabilities to help improve memory and cognition which will allow people with Down syndrome to be more independent.


If you are able to donate to Joe's Crowdrise page for the marathon it is much appreciated!