Community comes together to raise money for Down syndrome

By Michael Thompson

Monday, Oct. 27, 2008 | 12:42 p.m.

Life becomes real when you are personally touched by another. This has certainly been the case since our family first met Luke and his family. Luke was born with Down syndrome. The greatest blessing is no one allows his condition to be an obstacle. He is our angel.

A few weeks ago, our family, along with many of his family's friends, was invited to be one of Luke's angels and to walk in his honor as part of a community effort to educate the public about Down Syndrome. Joined by hundreds of other children, families and community members, the energy was high as the event kicked off. The guest of honor, KVBC Channel 3 meteorologist Kevin Janison, invited each of the participants be do a little Jazzercise warm up before we began our walk.

With music playing, all the "Buddies" were invited to walk through the ceremonial balloon arch as we began our one-mile trek around Acacia Park in Henderson. Smiles, laugher, song and cheer was in the background as we walked to celebrate all those who have made a difference in our lives, by being just who they were.

The National Buddy Walk Program began as an advocacy event to promote awareness. It is also a fundraiser for the Down Syndrome Organization of Southern Nevada, which provides a variety of services to the Down syndrome community. Some services offered include therapies like music, speech, dance and yoga; as well as life skill, educational and medical seminars.