What is Down syndrome?  Down syndrome occurs at conception.  The embryo has 47 chromosomes in each cell instead of the usual 46. One baby in every 800 live births is born with Down syndrome.  As the child grows the extra chromosome uniquely impacts how the body and brain develop. People with Down syndrome have a lifetime of potential just like any other person. 

Parent Advocates Down Syndrome (PADS) "...believes individuals with Down syndrome will excel, discover a hopeful future and enjoy life in an inclusive and supportive community ." PADS is a non-profit organization in Central Alabama dedicated to promote awareness & acceptance of, and advocacy for individuals with Down syndrome. PADS    offers education & support programs for individuals, their families, caretakers, educators, medical professionals,   service providers and the communities where they reside.

The Adult Down Syndrome Clinic at UAB funded through the John Mark Stallings Endowed Support Fund "...serves as a medical home, attending to the unique health and life issues of adults with Down syndrome." Strides in pediatric heart and health care have significantly increased the average life span of individuals with Down syndrome. The clinic offers knowledgeable care for these maturing adults and addresses the concerns of their caretakers. The clinic serves Alabama and the Southeast Region of the United States. Complete funding of the Endowed Support Fund will become an Endowment for future generations and permanently named, The John Mark Stallings Adult Down Syndrome Clinic.

Our Philosophy
Individuals with Down Syndrome are exceptional. We believe that they can and will excel in our communities. Together, we can make their world a brighter place.

Our Members
P.A.D.S. members are diverse. Everyone is welcome. We share one vision--a world for individuals with Down Syndrome where limitless potential is accepted, expected and embraced.

Our History
Over the past twenty years, P.A.D.S. has become a key player among disability groups, pioneered educational changes, created numerous opportunities for individuals with Down syndrome, and most importantly, reached out to countless individuals with Down syndrome and their families to offer emotional, social and educational support.

Our Affiliations
P.A.D.S. is an affiliate of the National Down Syndrome Congress and the National Down Syndrome Society. P.A.D.S. also has strong partnerships with many statewide agencies and advocacy groups. In 2008 P.A.D.S. became a member of NRCA Alabama.