Steps for a Brighter Tomorrow | First Annual Buddy Walk Promotes Awareness & Acceptance of Down Syndrome

DS Support 1st Annual Buddy Walk in Oakbrook, IL The DS Support Buddy Walk is a one mile walk that celebrates October, National Down Syndrome Awareness Month, and promotes the awareness and acceptance of Down syndrome. All funds raised through the Buddy Walk support various local programs and the National Down Syndrome Societys education, research and advocacy efforts.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Aug 5, 2003
Contact: Jennifer Paganessi
815-439-8693

Steps for a Brighter Tomorrow | First Annual Buddy Walk Promotes Awareness & Acceptance of Down Syndrome
Oakbrook, IL - Individuals with Down syndrome, along with their friends and family, will walk in full force on October 11, 2003, for the inaugural DS Support Buddy Walk, organized by DS Support and the National Down Syndrome Society. The Buddy Walk celebrates October, National Down Syndrome Awareness Month, and promotes the awareness and acceptance of Down syndrome.

Registration begins at 1 pm, and the walk follows at 2 pm at Central Park in Oakbrook. Family festivities include games, entertainment, face painting, food and prizes.

By promoting awareness and acceptance of people with Down syndrome, DS Support hopes to break down many of the existing stereotypes about the abilities of people with this genetic condition and show that they are more like their non-disabled peers than they are different. All funds raised through the Buddy Walk will support various local programs and the National Down Syndrome Societys education, research and advocacy efforts.

Call DS Support at 815-439-8693 for more information about participating in the Oakbrook Buddy Walk and other events and services for individuals with Down syndrome, or visit their Web site at www.dssupport.net/buddywalk.

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Note: Media representatives interested in covering the event should contact Jennifer Paganessi, at 815-439-8693. Down syndrome is a chromosomal abnormality affecting more than 350,000 people in the United States. People with Down syndrome possess a wide range of abilities and are active participants in the educational, occupational, social and recreational activities of the community.