COLUMBUS, Ga. (WRBL) — October is Down Syndrome Awareness Month, and a local organization held a fundraiser that allows people to celebrate and walk with their buddies with Down Syndrome.
Families and the Columbus community gathered at Synovus Park Saturday morning for the annual Greater Columbus Buddy Walk.
The Down Syndrome Association of Greater Columbus held this fundraising event to celebrate and bring awareness to individuals with Down Syndrome, or 'buddies' at the event.
Board member Toya Barnes described what the event had to offer.
"We have lots of activities, face painting, and we have a DJ for live dancing," Barnes said. "And then our actual walk, we are going to do a lap around the track here at Synovus Park and celebrate all our Down Syndrome community members."
The Muscogee County Sheriff's Office came to support the community and lead the way on the field during the walk.
There were special appearances from Ms. Georgia, USA World 2025 Quadasia Love, and Clingstones' mascot Fuzzy.
President of The Down Syndrome Association of Greater Columbus Carrie Defenbaugh said the event helps people not only celebrate individuals with Down Syndrome, but also provides resources about the genetic disorder.
"Most people have heard of Down's syndrome, but they don't really know anything about Down's syndrome," Defenbaugh said. "Most of what you read on the internet is somewhat true, but I wouldn't say it isn't the full truth of what individuals with Down Syndrome are. Their Down Syndrome is just a part of them. It's not all of what makes them, them."
Defenbaugh is also a mother to a child with a dual diagnosis of Down Syndrome and autism who enjoys events like the Buddy Walk.
Additionally, Barnes has a son with the same dual diagnosis. She believes that the genetic condition should be advocated for.
"Just as much as we celebrate our neurodivergent community members and members on the autism spectrum, we want to make sure that we're celebrating our Down Syndrome community as well," Barnes said.
Members with the Down Syndrome Association were glad to not only raise money, but also recognize each buddy and help bring more awareness.
All money made from the event will go directly towards the organization, which can be given back to families with new life. Funds also helps the organization come up with new and better resources for those families.
0 comments: