Fifth Annual Step Up for Down Syndrome Walk

On Saturday, October 5, 2013, the Heartland Down Syndrome Association will host the Fifth Annual Step Up for Down Syndrome Walk in Cape Girardeau. The walk celebrates the value of individuals with Down syndrome and promotes awareness, respect, and opportunities for people with Down syndrome. The walk is scheduled for October 5th at 10 am at Cape County Park North.

In addition to a one-mile walk, participants will be treated to a puppet show, games, music and dancing, attendance prizes, and a picnic lunch. The event is a great opportunity to meet other families, learn about resources available in the community, and show support for a friend or loved one with Down syndrome. HDSA especially encourages professionals who work with children with special needs, such as teachers, coaches, therapists, and healthcare providers, to attend. There is no registration fee, and no pledges or donations to collect as the event is not a fund-raiser. T-shirts will be available by pre-order only and order information can be provided upon request.

The first local walk, then known as the Buddy Walk, was in 2009 and the first of its kind in Southeast Missouri. Beginning in 2010, the name was changed to the Step Up for Down Syndrome (SUDS) Walk. As many as 190 walkers have attended the event.

HDSA requests that those planning to attend the 2013 Step Up for Down Syndrome Walk please register in advance. Registration allows organizers to ensure that adequate food and supplies are available, and in the event of cancellation due to inclement weather, only those who have registered will be notified. Registration can be completed by leaving a message at phone number 573-334-5685 or emailing heartlanddsa@msn.com.