In this episode of DSACO: Up for Discussion, we're talking all things Down Syndrome Festival & 5K! Whether you're a long-time supporter or brand new to the event, this episode will get you excited for the best day ever.

We sit down with Leslee Boswell, DSACO's Executive Director, to talk about the heart, history, and impact behind this incredible day. From family teams and custom shirts to the inclusive energy that brings thousands together — it's more than just a run, it's a celebration of community, awareness, and advocacy.

1. Why do we host a 5K?
2. What’s the story behind the matching team shirts?
3. How does this event support individuals with Down syndrome?

All of that and more in today’s episode.

Tune in, get inspired, and get ready to register!

🔗 To learn more about the Down Syndrome Festival & 5K or to register your team, sign up for the race, or get involved, visit: dsfestivaland5k.com

In this episode, we sit down with Eilene Franks, a passionate mother and advocate, to explore the incredible impact of SoonerStart—Oklahoma’s early intervention program for infants and toddlers with developmental delays or disabilities. Eilene shares her personal journey with her son Hudson, who has Down syndrome, and how SoonerStart helped lay the foundation for his growth and success.

We discuss how the program works, who qualifies, and the life-changing benefits it provides for families across the state. Whether you're a new parent, a caregiver, or simply want to learn more about the resources available in Oklahoma, this episode offers both practical information and heartfelt inspiration.

Listen in to discover:

• What SoonerStart is and how it supports families
• Eilene’s personal experience navigating early intervention
• How to get started and what to expect from services
• Why early support can make a lifelong difference

To learn more about SoonerStart, visit https://oklahoma.gov/health/services/children-family-health/sooner-start.html

Tune in now and hear how early intervention can open doors and build brighter futures.

In this episode, hosts Sarah Soell and Kathy Trout take a closer look at medical diagnoses commonly associated with individuals with Down syndrome. This conversation isn’t meant to alarm but to empower families, caregivers, and advocates with knowledge about what to watch for and how to better support their loved ones throughout life.

A special focus of this episode highlights the groundbreaking INCLUDE Project (Investigation of Co-occurring conditions across the Lifespan to Understand Down syndrome) — a national research effort that is transforming how we understand and address medical conditions impacting individuals with Down syndrome.

Launched in 2018 at the direction of Congress, the INCLUDE Project supports vital research into conditions such as:

• Alzheimer's disease and dementia
• Autism
• Cataracts
• Celiac disease
• Congenital heart disease
• Diabetes

The project emphasizes the critical need to include individuals with Down syndrome in clinical trials, ensuring that research and treatments are informed by their unique needs.

Key Takeaways:

• Common medical diagnoses associated with Down syndrome
• How families can be proactive in monitoring health
• The role and importance of the INCLUDE Project
• How clinical trials can drive better outcomes for the Down syndrome community

Whether you're a parent, educator, healthcare provider, or advocate, this episode provides valuable insights into the evolving landscape of medical care and research for individuals with Down syndrome.

Links & Resources Mentioned:

• Learn more about the INCLUDE Project through the NIH INCLUDE Project website
• More DSACO resources: www.dsaco.org
• Have ideas for future podcast topics? Email us at info@dsaco.org!