World Down Syndrome Day (21 March 2026): Kendre's Journey of Hope and Heart

At 12 years old, Kendre is a cheerful and affectionate boy who lights up most when he is outdoors. Being a foodie, he especially enjoys moments spent exploring new places and flavours. Born with Down Syndrome and a congenital heart condition, Kendre’s journey has been marked by both resilience and quiet strength. 

When Kendre was just 18 months old, he lost his father to cancer. As an only child, he shares an especially close bond with his mother, who has been his constant pillar of love and support through every milestone and challenge. 

Kendre joined Club Rainbow (Singapore) in 2017 after being referred by KK Women's and Children's Hospital (KKH). In his early years, when he was unable to walk independently, the family benefited from Club Rainbow’s home-based therapy services. As he grew older, weekly speech therapy sessions supported his communication development. Today, school holiday outings organised by Club Rainbow give Kendre opportunities to explore the community in ways that are meaningful and affordable for his family. 

Over the years, Kendre has overcome significant challenges. He no longer requires a nasogastric (NG) tube, has become more vocal, and in recent years has begun learning to read, count and write — milestones that reflect his determination and steady progress. 

While he may not have a fixed passion just yet, Kendre enjoys being guided in cooking and baking, delighting in the hands-on experience (and perhaps the tasty results). His dream is a simple but heartfelt one: to go on holidays and see more of the world. 

Looking ahead, his mother hopes that Kendre will grow in independence, manage daily tasks confidently, and one day hold a part-time job — spending his adulthood meaningfully and with purpose. 

And in his own words, Kendre has a message for everyone this World Down Syndrome Day: 

“There is hope in everything!” 

World Down Syndrome Day is a global awareness day to help people understand and support those with Down Syndrome better. The date being the 21st day of the 3rd month was chosen to represent the triplication (trisomy) of the 21st chromosome which causes Down Syndrome. Around 1 in every 800 babies will be born with Down Syndrome. People with Down Syndrome usually have an intellectual disability, and some health conditions are also more common in them. 

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