About Us
Our Story
Founded in 1992 through a collaboration between the National Association for Down Syndrome (NADS) and Advocate Lutheran General Hospital in Park Ridge, IL, our nationally recognized Adult Down Syndrome Center (ADSC) has provided physical, mental, and social health services to thousands of adolescents and adults with Down syndrome.
From our early days seeing patients twice a month in a shared space to today providing full-time services in our 6,500 square foot, specially designed medical center, we are committed to fostering a warm and welcoming environment, as we holistically care for the health and wellness needs of individuals with Down syndrome.
Specialized Care
As one of the few primary care clinics in the world focused solely on serving people with Down syndrome ages 12 and older, our multi-disciplinary team includes these specialized professionals.
We also, on an as-needed basis, refer patients who come to our clinic to dieticians, physical therapists, cardiologists, and other health professionals with experience caring for the health needs of people with Down syndrome.
Recognition
The ADSC team has received many awards from organizations such as the National Down Syndrome Congress, the Down Syndrome Medical Interest Group-USA, and the Illinois Academy of Family Physicians.
Additionally, we have been recognized as Top Doctors by Chicago Magazine and Castle Connolly.
Our staff frequently present at local and national events, including the National Down Syndrome Congress Convention and the National Down Syndrome Society Adult Summit.
Philosophy
These guiding principles are the foundation of our work at the ADSC.
The Research &
Education Initiative
The ADSC has gained extensive knowledge and experience over the years caring for people with Down syndrome.
Our mission is to share that knowledge through various means, including conferences and webinars, teaching residents and medical students, authoring books and articles, as well as developing educational materials.
In 2015, the Research & Education Initiative was started to formalize these efforts, with a special emphasis on patient-centered research and education to improve the quality of life for individuals living with Down syndrome.
The Center’s co-founders, Brian Chicoine, MD, and Dennis McGuire, PhD, have published two books – Mental Wellness in Adults with Down Syndrome: A Guide to Emotional and Behavioral Strengths and Challenges and The Guide to Good Health for Teens and Adults with Down Syndrome.
From Our Medical Director
The Importance of Research and Education
When the clinic opened in 1992, the medical community knew very little about caring for adults with Down syndrome knowledgeably and respectfully. Thankfully, we have come a long way since then, but there is still a lot to learn.
We are so appreciative of the opportunities we have had to work with people with Down syndrome, their families, and other clinics and organizations within the Down syndrome community. Documenting and sharing the knowledge we have learned together not only supports the individuals with Down syndrome seen at our clinic, but also others around the world.
Brian Chicoine, MD
Help Support Our Mission
Due to the generous support of our donors, we have been able to continue the important work of caring for people with Down syndrome, supporting their families, and helping to spread knowledge to many across the globe.
Together, we can continue to help shape a world where people with Down syndrome can lead healthy and active lives, filled with hope, happiness, and purpose.
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