I wanted to share a little story with you. Before the premiere of our
fabulous Shepton Smiles. These girls have worked so hard all year and
while all of these Smile Cheerleaders are not effected by the same
issues, it was one child born in May of this year, that began the
brainstorming that led to the creation of Shepton Smiles. Her name is
Emma Grace. She was born to the father and step mother of our former
mascot, Brittany. Dawn (Emma's mom) experienced a normal pregnancy and
had every test come back as completely fine only to discover in the
delivery room that she had given birth to a child with down syndrom.
This was to say the least, a complete shock to the entire family system.
But this whole family has embraced this miracle that they were given
and Emma is perfectly precious (I have seen pics, I just want to squeeze
her up). I sat back and watched with amazement how this 15 year old big
sister embraced this new little girl whole heartedly and I hoped at that
moment more yong adults could demonstarte that amazing showing of
unconditional love. Along with the exposure the Mandy and I were given
through Oprah of all places, and People magazine we designed, kind of by
the seat of our pants, the Shepton Smiles. This whole long story was
necessary to tell to get to my next point. On Sunday November 7 the
Down Symdrome Guild of Dallas will be hosting their annual Buddy Walk.
The Buddy Walk® is an incredible day of celebration with family and
friends to raise awareness, raise funds, and raise the hope of a better
world for all people with Down syndrome. I am not requiring anyone to
participate, Lord knows we all have tons on our plates, but I would love
to see as many of the girls out there supporting the cause. I will be
there. I have copied the link below if you and your family would like
to participate and/or just to donate if you can. The team name to
register under is Emma's Empire. Come and join us! Feel free to ask
any questions of voice a concern as well. Happy Tuesday!
Thursday, October 21, 2010
Thursday, October 14, 2010
Facts - Down syndrome
The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) insures all children with Down syndrome free access to appropriate public education. This act enables all those w/disabilities to have the same public education as typical children. Teachers: Don't underestimate the abilities of your students no matter what..
When you refer to a person with a disability, you always state the person first and then state their disability! NEVER say, "That Down syndrome person," or, "That blind person." We are all humans, first and foremost, whether we have a disability or not. Emma is a person just like you and just like me.
There are over 400,000 people with Down Syndrome in the United States today. With statistics like these we need to come together as a nation to become more familiar with what Down Syndrome really is.
Sunday, October 10, 2010
Something a friend wrote that I loved and stole.
Emma may have Down syndrome but Down syndrome does not have her! October is National Down Syndrome Awareness Month. Let's start it off right by recognizing all the unique individuals with DS that we love and cherish! I love you Emma Grace. You have changed my life forever, in more ways than one. Thank you my sweet angel for your unforgettable smile and love.
Thursday, October 7, 2010
Buddy Walk Info.
atl.etapestry.com
Please join the Down Syndrome Guild of Dallas' 10th Annual Buddy Walk! November 7th, 2010. Festivities are from 11a.m.-3p.m. 1 mile Fun Walk begins at 1p.m.
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