Edmonton Down Syndrome annual Buddy Walk

John Carle gives us an update on Sunday's annual Buddy Walk:

Today was the 4th annual “Buddy Walk” for the Edmonton Down Syndrome Society, as part of the national “Down Syndrome Awareness Week”.

As the father of Gabriel, a great little man with Down Syndrome, I’ve had the pleasure of attending 3 of the 4 walks. It’s an eye opening experience and one that fills me with both pride and joy at the same time. Pride and joy in the people who were there.

Let me start by throwing out some statistics… 1,200 people showed up. Impressive. $92,000 was raised. MOST impressive.

These are 2 statistics that are deserve of my pride. But this isn’t what I’m talking about tonight when I refer to MY pride.

Also, while I am naturally proud of Gabriel and my entire family, I’m not talking about them. (At least, not today…)

Also, while I marvel at the amazing people with Down Syndrome that I get to meet at this event, it’s not the pride that I have in them that I want to talk about tonight. Although they certainly deserve a special mention, and have a soft spot in my heart!

Money raised is being used toward a dedicated medical facility for persons with Down Syndrome, in conjunction with the University of Alberta system.

Edmonton Down Syndrome Society