Cogua Kids: Buddy Walk 2011

Buddy Walk 2011 was a smashing success! There were so many people this year that it seemed overly crowded at times (for a brief moment we lost Mateo between the snacks line and the bounce houses). We walked for Francesca and with Francesca touting our bees and enjoyed the beautiful fall day. Every year I say I am going to do t-shirts for our team ... next year will have to be the year. There are all kinds of cute sayings "Claire's Baum Squad: Igniting Down Syndrome Awareness," "Strollin' with Vollen," "Bella's Buddies: Designer Genes." Cassie suggested we plan this summer before the craziness of fall and a new school year kick into gear. So ... if you are reading this now ... PLAN TO WALK WITH US NEXT YEAR and BEE part of TEAM FRANCESCA! It really is so much fun!

The Buddy Walk is organized by the Down Syndrome Alliance of the Midlands (formerly Omaha Down Syndrome Parent Network). We have been a part of this incredible network of families since the very beginning when Francesca was just a few months old. In fact, ODSPN welcomed us while we were still at the hospital when Francesca was born. There are no words to describe how meaningful it is to have relationships with other families with children with DS. DSA has been a major lifeline to our family. All of the proceeds from the Buddy Walk go to DSA and help fund a variety of activities we participate in. Also, our group advocates for new families with little ones with DS. One of the most recent projects was the creation of a new welcome booklet given to families in the hospital explaining who we are and how we support families. I wish I could be more "hands-on" with the organization, but at this point in my busy life, it is not feasible. Again, someday ...

THANK YOU to our family and friends near and far who supported us this year through walking or donations. Your support really does mean so much to us and we love you!