Our Five Ring Circus: Dash for Down Syndrome 2014

Monday, October 20, 2014

Dash for Down Syndrome 2014

On September 27th, we headed into Pittsburgh for the Dash for Down Syndrome!

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This was our second year attending the Dash.  We attended last year's Dash when Liam was just 1 1/2 months old.  It was a last minute decision, but I'm so glad we went. It was our first real experience with the Down Syndrome Community.  These families are amazing!

This year, the Dash was held at a different location.  It was a hot, sunny day, and so many people showed up.  It really is a wonderful community!

Liam just wasn't his usual self that day.  I couldn't figure out why he wasn't smiling much and was acting so sleepy. A few days later, I found out why.  He was cutting his upper molars!

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I'm going to admit, my heart wasn't in it this year.  I refuse to let that happen next year!  I need to learn how to let go of disappointment and focus on those around me. 

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Liam was completely enthralled with the soccer field.  He refused to look at anyone!

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He even refused to look at the Pirates Parrot!

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When I picked him up, I couldn't figure out why he was covered in black dots.  Turns out the field was covered in shredded tire for better cushioning!

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While we waited for the walk to start, I took the girls to meet the Pirates Parrot and we stood in a LONG line (technical difficulties) for a bounce house. 

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Finally, we lined up on the hot field and got ready to walk!

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We walked for our sweet Liam. 

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We also walked for my dad's cousin's son, Joey, who passed away way too young.  He, too, had Down Syndrome.

After the walk, we went inside for a snack.  We didn't expect it to be so hot, and Liam needed to get out of the sun.  He was chowing down on his sock, so we swapped it for his very first Smiley Cookie (it's a Pittsburgh thing)!

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We are so thankful for our family and friends who joined us to support Liam and the Down Syndrome community!

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Until next year, Dash!

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There's no doubt about it:  We love this kid SO much!

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