John’s Crazy Socks Introduces Williams Syndrome Awareness Socks
John’s Crazy Socks has released a series of Williams Syndrome Awareness Socks. These beautiful socks feature the blue and green hands and red heart that symbolize Williams syndrome (and is part of the WSA logo), against a white background. There is a crew sock and knee high socks. The company will donate $2 from the sale of each pair to the Williams Syndrome Association.
John Cronin, co-founder of John’s Crazy Socks, is a 21-year-old man with Down syndrome. He says, “I want people to know about Williams syndrome, what people with Williams syndrome can do, and the challenges they face.”
The idea for the Williams syndrome awareness sock came from a Long Island Mom, Kelly Dombroski, whose son Tyler, 17, has Williams syndrome. She heard about John’s Crazy Socks and the awareness socks and asked the company to create a sock. Kelly says, “People with Williams syndrome face many challenges and shining a light on the condition will help everyone. I was so happy when John and Mark said they could make a Williams Syndrome Awareness Sock.”
Jennifer O’Byrne, the volunteer and event coordinator at the Association, says, “We’re very excited for the release of these awareness socks. Part of our mission includes
increasing awareness and understanding of Williams syndrome. And the donation will enable us to do more for our individuals and their families.”
What is Williams syndrome?
According the Williams Syndrome Association (williams-syndrome.org), Williams syndrome (WS) is a genetic condition that is present at birth and can affect anyone. Approximately 30,000 individuals in the United States are affected by this disorder. It is characterized by medical problems, including cardiovascular disease, developmental delays, and learning challenges, which often occur side by side with striking verbal abilities, highly social personalities and an affinity for music. It occurs equally in both males and females.
The Connection of John’s Crazy Socks with Williams syndrome
Down syndrome, which co-founder John Cronin has, shares many similarities with Williams syndrome including cardiac issues, developmental delays and learning disabilities. Like children with Down syndrome, children with Williams syndrome tend to be social, friendly and endearing. Every day, John demonstrates what a person with disabilities can do: he helps lead his business, works hard within that business and serves as the public face of the business. It is only natural for us to raise awareness of Williams syndrome.
John’s Crazy Socks and their Awareness Socks
John’s Crazy Socks is committed to demonstrating what is possible for people of all abilities. The company also has a core value of giving back. It donates 5 percent of earnings to the Special Olympics and has a series of Awareness Socks. The Down Syndrome Awareness Socks raise money for the National Down Syndrome Society and ACDS. The Autism Awareness Socks raise money for Autism Speaks and the Autism Society of America (Nassau/Suffolk Chapter).
John’s Crazy Socks offers other charity socks that raise money for breast cancer research, the Special Olympics and the Whaling Museum of Cold Spring Harbor, NY. Each month, the company publishes its Giving Back Report to let customers know about its charitable activities.
About the Williams Syndrome Association
The Williams Syndrome Association (WSA) is the most comprehensive resource for people and families living with Williams syndrome as well as doctors, researchers and educators. The WSA provides resources, support and the latest medical information to help people with Williams syndrome and their families.
