Support those with Down sydrome, especially Ryan

It has been said many times, so all of you know by now that Ryan was diagnosed with Down syndrome shortly after his birth. In addition to being a happy, active and thankfully healthy child; Ryan has reminded us about what is truly important in life: to laugh often, eat lots of ice cream and love unconditionally. The impact he has had on our family has been enormously positive.

When Ryan was a newborn we were fortunate to have the support of all of you and a local parent group as well. The information received from the parent group made our adjustment to Ryan's diagnosis much easier. When we moved to Greenville we quickly became involved with the Down Syndrome Family Alliance and have continued to receive support from them over the past three years. Our family knows first hand the importance of having a parent network like this one and wants to ensure that it is available to families and their children for years to come.

The Down Syndrome Family Alliance is a non-profit organization and an affiliate of the National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS). Their main means of raising funds to support their programs is the Buddy Walk. This walk was developed in 1995 to promote awareness and inclusion of people with Down syndrome and to raise money for research and educational programs. As I have learned more about NDSS my respect for them continues to grow and I am confident they use their funds wisely. For example, they are currently providing grant money to two and four year post-secondary institutions to delvelop college programs that are accessible to students with intellectual disabilities. That means I need to start saving money not only for Lilly to attend college but Ryan too. The National Down Syndrome Society also takes the lead in research, education and advocacy efforts to benefit people with Down syndrome and their families. They are the first place I turn when I need information.

At this year's Buddy Walk we will have a LIVE butterfly release at the end of the walk. I could give you many more reasons why you should sponsor a butterfly in Ryan's honor, but if I haven't convinced you with all that I have said thus far, just do it because Ryan is an adorable child that you love very much. Please mail your check for $20.00 payable to the Down Syndrome Family Alliance. Please e-mail me at rourkmar@charter.net if you need our home mailing address.

You can also make a credit card donation by going to FirstGiving