31 for 21

So I started this blog because I saw "31 for 21" on a number of other websites, which it turns out is a movement to blog about Down syndrome every day during October. I got a late start, but here goes for the remaining days of the month.

Today I want to talk about how amazing the Buddy Walk can be. We participate in the one in Seattle, sponsored by the Down Syndrome Community. This month was our 6th time. I'm always moved by several things. First, the actual sense of community--all of these people (700 or so) in a public space, together, with something significant in common (DS) but so many differences: age, ethnicity, religion, social status, income level.... Another thing that moves me is all the support for DS that hasn't been there all that long. Support from state agencies, private groups, family, friends, other parents and self-advocates. And the thing that always brings tears to my eyes is the self-advocates, speaking for themselves and giving me a vision of all the things my son can be. Things that can be hard to see in the day-to-day grind. It's a really beautiful experience. And finally, the fact that the Puget Sound Buddy Walk takes place in view of the Space Needle, at Seattle Center in the heart of the city. It's just a really special experience for me each year.