On Saturday we participated in our very first Dash for Down Syndrome, held at nearby Hartwood Acres.
We were told about it after I announced the news about Liam. We were not going to attend this year, but at the last minute, I felt the overwhelming need to go. We rearranged plans so we could make it.
It ended up being a perfect day! The weather was perfect, the trees were beautiful, and it was a wonderful experience!
I can not say enough great things about this event! As soon as we arrived, I was overcome with emotion. Everything was perfectly coordinated and we were overwhelmed by the amount of people that were there and the sense of community that surrounded us.
As soon as we registered and met a few new people, we headed over to the petting zoo. It was Dylan, Lexie, and Lily's favorite part of the day! They were so excited to feed all the baby animals with bottles!
The kids reluctantly agreed to leave the petting zoo, but some of my extended family had arrived, and we had planned to meet up with them.
Two of my dad's cousins, Rita and Ruth Ann, came to the Dash. Rita's daughter, Alex, and her boyfriend, Zack, came along, too. They are a wonderful family! Rita has done an amazing job raising her 4 kids. They are the sweetest, most polite teenagers/young adults that I've ever met. My dad's cousin, Ruth Ann, lost her son, Joey, when he was 11 years old. I was really young when he passed away, and now that I understand what she went through, I have so much respect for her. He had Down Syndrome, so they were walking in honor of him.
It was their first time meeting Liam!
My kids adore Alex, and she had the same effect on Liam!
We had some time before the dash began, so the kids had cookies, got balloons, got tattoos, got their faces painted, met the mounted police and their horses, and played a game. Liam was obviously too young to enjoy any of it, but he was perfectly content in the carrier.
Finally it was time for the Dash to begin! We were in the middle of the pack, and the line of supporters stretched as far as the eye could see. Our family walked for Liam and in remembrance of Joey.
It was an amazing experience walking with people who all had the same goal. It was so wonderful that we could walk with family members we only see a few times a year. I was so proud to walk for our sweet Liam.
I am so thankful we attended the Dash. I know Grant feels the same way. Our family had a great time, and it was an incredible experience for the kids! We left the event feeling hopeful about Liam's future and inspired to rally our family and friends to join us next year!
Liam slept through the entire event, but I know he's going to enjoy it for years to come!
Team Liam!!!
What a fabulous event!! Count me in for next one!!! :)
ReplyDeleteAwh, how fun! Team Liam!! =)
ReplyDeleteThat is the most beautiful ever! I will attend and support the next race I hear of in support of your sweet child!
ReplyDeletefirst of all - you look great. I don't think I looked so good after having my babies for a long time! ha! what a great event to honor your precious little man!
ReplyDeleteI love his little cape and leg peeking out of the carrier. So cute.
ReplyDeleteI'm glad you had a good time!
What a fun event, and I loved his little outfit! :-)
ReplyDeleteCongratulations!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! My computer did not work for many weeks and I could not blog. Liam is beautiful! These pictures look like so much fun! You are such a great mom creating so many wonderful memories for your children. Have a great night my friend! :)
ReplyDeleteMama Hen
Too sweet. I love his costume. You have a beautiful family. I am glad you all decided to attend.
ReplyDeleteI think it is awesome that you made it to this event! Your baby boy is gorgeous.
ReplyDeleteI loved your post on what to expect! Very sweet and poignant!
ReplyDeleteThis looks like such a great event and I am glad you have such a wonderful family and community surrounding and supporting you!
YAY!! Love his little outfit!
ReplyDeleteWhat a great event!!!
ReplyDeleteKate @ Raising the Rogers
You are so awesome! - @Dayngr
ReplyDelete