Speaker: Tony Zito RN, Marketing Director, Grand Strand Down Syndrome Society
Michael Moss introduced our speaker, Tony Zito, the Marketing Director of Grand Strand Down Syndrome Society. Born in Cleveland Ohio, Tony graduated from Ohio State University in 1972 with a degree in education and political science. Two years later, he graduated from Mount Carmel School of Nursing. He has four daughters and has been living in Myrtle Beach for the past seven years. Tony retired professionally 3 year ago to work full time with the Down Syndrome Society in Horry County.
Down Syndrome (als o referred to as Trisomy 21) is the most common genetic disorder that affects the 21st chromosome. About 1 in every 700 babies in the United States will be born with it. People with down Syndrome have an extra copy of the 21st chromosome for a total of 47, rather than 46. This extra chromosome can affect the person’s course of development, as well as certain traits. Some of these traits may be small stature, low muscle tone, or upward slanted eyes.
The mission of the Grand Strand Down Syndrome Society is to make life better for people in our community who have Down Syndrome and to provide professional support for their families and caregivers. They bring to light the potential and greatness that each person with Down Syndrome possesses.
Grand Strand Down Syndrome Society (GSDSS) is a 501(c)(3) organization funded through donations, grants, corporate sponsorship, memorial donations, and proceeds from several fundraising events, including their annual Buddy Walk ® held in October. You can become a member of the Society, donate, or volunteer at special events. More information can be found on their website: https://www.grandstrandds.org/
