(SAVANNAH, GA) The Lowcountry Down Syndrome Society Buddy Walk Festival in Forsyth Park was a huge success, with over 3,000 walkers turning out to support families touched by Down syndrome. Savannah’s fourth annual Buddy Walk raised $62,000 this year for the cause. A second Buddy Walk, inspired by the LDSS Buddy Walk in Savannah, held in the combat zone of Afghanistan by Sergeant Samantha Allen-boasted the participation of over 300 soldiers who were unable to be present for the Savannah walk-raising an additional $3,000. Together, these walks garnered an impressive $65,000 in support of those with Down syndrome.
The Buddy Walk is held each year during October which is National Down Syndrome Awareness Month, to provide support and advocacy for individuals with Down syndrome and their families. Over 300 Buddy Walks are expected to occur throughout the United States this month.
About the Lowcountry Down Syndrome Society:
Established in 2006, the Lowcountry Down Syndrome Society (LDSS) is a non-profit family support group designed to benefit people with Down syndrome and their families. The LDSS is an affiliate of the National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS), a national advocate for the value, acceptance and inclusion of people with Down syndrome.
These societies envision and promote a world in which all people with Down syndrome have the opportunity to enhance their quality of life, realize their life aspirations, and become valued members of welcoming communities. Quality educational programs, a stimulating home environment, good health care, and positive support from family, friends and the community allow people with Down syndrome to develop their full potential and lead fulfilling lives. http://www.ndss.org
The Lowcountry Down Syndrome Society now provides outreach to families in eight local counties. Families are encouraged to bring their children with them to meetings, which are held on the fourth Tuesday of each month. These gatherings usually include a guest speaker as well as social time for families to meet and share with one another. For more information call John or Candy Bogardus at (912) 728-8505 or visit the website at http://www.ldssga.org.