BinSina Pharmacy, the oldest pharmacy in the UAE, owned by Al Khayyat Investments, recently supported the World Down Syndrome Day Walkathon 2011 organised by UAE Down Syndrome Association.

“It is a matter of great pride to work with the UAE Down Syndrome Association in this cause of raising awareness of the rights of people with Down syndrome,” said Clive Stanley, CEO of the retail division at Al Khayyat Investment.

“We at BinSina believe that every company has a role to play in society. This awareness campaign will go a long way in easing the lives of people having Down syndrome and we are happy to contribute to such a noble cause."

Sonia Al Hashimi, UAE Down Syndrome Association president, said: “Our goal for the day was to raise awareness for the rights and dignity of people with Down Syndrome and with the help of BinSina Pharmacy, we were able to achieve that goal. We truly appreciate BinSina’s public support for our cause.”

The Dubai Mall hosted the annual World Down Syndrome Day Walkathon. BinSina Pharmacy was one of the primary sponsors to the event.

Children's activity stations were placed throughout the Dubai Mall featuring storytelling, face painting, balloon bending, football, hand painting, cupcake decorating and photography, among others.

Al Hashimi added: "We want people everywhere to understand how beautiful the people with Down Syndrome make our world. The response of the community and in particular the corporate community has been overwhelming. There has been a lot of encouragement from businesses that have come forward to assist in our awareness raising endeavors."

The UAE Down Syndrome Association provides various services, such as speech therapy and occupational therapy, to improve the lives of children and people with Down Syndrome in the UAE, a statement said. – TradeArabia News Service