2nd Annual Dash for Down Syndrome – What a Morning!

 Our hearts are so full after an incredible event! We have some amazing descriptions of what took place at our 2nd Annual Dash for Down Syndrome and we thought we would share them with you.

“It was a beautiful morning in Lakewood, Ohio. Lakewood Park was bustling with folks of all ages and over by the pavilion there was music, dancing, singing and folks were smiling, laughing, talking, stretching. Folks of all ages were busy pinning numbers on, eating a donut, drinking water. The energy was contagious, the excitement grew and then those familiar words were heard, “ON YOUR MARK, GET SET, GO!”

And the runners were off-there were wee ones in strollers being pushed by Mom and Dad, runners of all ages heading down Clifton Blvd. Their 3.21 miles was a significant number. Next up were the walkers, led by a group of energetic young friends who were followed by Moms, Dads, Grandparents, Aunts, Uncles and Friends. Their one mile walk around the park brought cheers and clapping as they made their way to the finish line. Soon after, the runners began to arrive and cross the finish line—there was more cheering, clapping, hugs and lots of water! You see, Friends, this morning was all about celebrating—celebrating our Friends with Down syndrome. GiGi’s Playhouse Cleveland’s 2nd annual Dash for Down Syndrome is in the books and thanks to all those who came, GiGi’s Playhouse Cleveland will continue its programming and services to our Down syndrome community free of charge! Thank you All for the best Saturday morning!” – Thank you, Barbara Bagdonas!

“It occurred to me today as I was going through the GiGi’s Playhouse Cleveland pictures from our amazing Dash yesterday…had we not had Lael, we wouldn’t only miss out on her love and joy, but we likely wouldn’t have become a part of this amazing community! I just looked through 300+ pictures and every picture has something in common: joy! Pure, unadulterated joy! From finish line crossers to background conversations, you cannot miss it! My husband asked what I was looking at because I had a smile plastered across my face for so long. I told him I was looking at unconditional love. I feel so fortunate to be in this world, with these people, figuring out puzzle after puzzle alongside so many beautiful souls. I love this picture of our little tribe and my big sister standing by my side. Unconditional love. #theluckyfew” – Thank you, Amy Stack!

For our full album of pictures from the event, click here!