Wednesday, May 03, 2006

Double Helix Ribbon Magnet

This ribbon magnet seems to indicate that the driver is an advocate for Down Syndrome. It is clever because it replaces part of one of the ribbon strands with a double helix of DNA. Since Down's Syndrome is caused by a chromosomal abnormality characterized by the presence of an extra copy of genetic material on the 21st chromosome (trisomy 21), the ribbon with DNA strand is very appropriate.

As with all ribbon magnets, there is not enough room to express the full idea intended. I don't think the driver advocates Down Syndrome, perhaps they actually mean they are an advocate for research into or support for people and families affected by Down Syndrome. That is a little to much to cram on to one ribbon magnet, and is the danger inherent in expressing yourself with a sign on the back of your car.

For more on my strange obsession with ribbon magnets, please click on Ribbons within Ribbons, Livestrong armband magnet, (premature) Death of the meme, Empty Sentiment ribbon magnet, negative space and other mutations, and my favorite, Support Our Pants.

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1 comment:

Miraclemansmom said...

Actually, I have this magnet and I DO advocate for Down syndrome. I wouldn't change a single thing about my 5 year old son with DS. Take it as you will - advocacy for DS itself, for the people with DS, for research about DS - it all fits.