Annual Event Honors Families who have a child with Down syndrome

COLUMBIA, SC — The Wright family of Irmo is serving as Ambassadors for Family Connection of South Carolina’s Buddy Walk 2023. Buddy Walk is held in honor of families who have a child with Down syndrome. Funds raised through Buddy Walk help Family Connection provide services and resources to families across South Carolina who have a child with a disability or chronic health condition. Buddy Walk also supports the vision of the National Down Syndrome Society to help create 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.

Nasir Wright was diagnosed with Down syndrome at six months old. Soon after, he began speech, occupational, and physical therapies. Nasir has accomplished many unexpected things including making AB Honor Role at his elementary school.

Nasir’s mom, Melanie, describes him as happy, excited, and ready to learn something new every day. “Nasir is a loving, caring boy, who is always willing to reach out to anyone who needs help” says Melanie.

Participants can register online and fundraise throughout October, which is Down Syndrome Awareness Month. On Sunday, October 29th, Family Connection will host the Buddy Walk event at Saluda Shoals Park Athletic Fields. Family-fun activities will be held from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. A walk around the athletic fields will begin at 2:00 pm with an awards ceremony immediately following. For registration, sponsorship, and additional event details, please visit www.familyconnectionsc.org/buddy-walk.  

“We are excited to host Buddy Walk 2023 as a celebration for families, friends, sponsors and supporters to come together in honor of Down Syndrome Awareness Month and to help support the mission of Family Connection” said Amy Holbert, CEO. “Family Connection continues to serve more than 6,000 families each year who have a child with a disability or chronic health condition. Buddy Walk is a wonderful opportunity to bring people together to support our goals of promoting inclusion, equity, and community.”

Presenting Sponsor for Buddy Walk 2023 is Zinger’s Fencing. Additional sponsors include Dominion Energy, Thompson & Hiller Defense Firm, Modern Woodmen, Mighty Kidz, A Mother’s Rest, Special Olympics South Carolina, Humana, The Family of Richard B. Perkins, Bace Financial Services, Midlands Therapy Services, Beyond Early Intervention, Richland/Lexington Disabilities and Special Needs Board, Little Johnny, Bright Start, R&J Masonry, HealthLinks Magazine, and ongoing sponsor: BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina.

For additional event information and vendor and sponsorship opportunities, contact Jacki Garbinsky, Marketing and Events Manager at [email protected] or 803-995-1413.

About Family Connection of South Carolina

Since 1990, Family Connection of South Carolina has been changing lives by making connections, raising awareness, and promoting inclusion for those with disabilities and chronic healthcare conditions. We offer programs and services to ensure that parents, professionals, and caregivers have access to available resources to help their children reach their full potential. Our work focuses on five areas: Parent Support, Healthcare, Education, Training and Advocacy. BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina is an ongoing sponsor of Family Connection of South Carolina. For more information or to make a referral or donation, visit www.familyconnectionsc.org or call 1-800-578-8750. Connect with us on Facebook,  LinkedIn, You Tube, and Instagram.