7 years ago my wife and I were blessed with our boy, Blake. Blake was born with the genetic condition Trisomy 21, most commonly known as Down syndrome. Despite being presented with a grim outlook for our son’s future by a poorly informed doctor, we believed our little guy would lead us down a very special, serendipitous road. Needless to say, we fired the doctor and got on with life!

It did not take long for our family to realize that Down syndrome was just a small part of who our son was and was capable of becoming. Through the help of an early intervention program and outstanding support from some very dedicated people, we were able to learn much about Blake’s condition, and what we could do to help him thrive.

Today Blake is a loving, active- sometimes feisty-- kindergartner, with a solid appreciation for “guy humor.” He loves fishing, playing basketball, soccer, and catching a good play or musical at the theatre. He is looking forward to learning Brazilian Jui Jitsu with his brother this summer.

The North Coast Down Syndrome Network is a 501(c)3 Oregon nonprofit affiliated with the National Down Syndrome Society. Its mission is to promote community awareness and to build a supportive network to empower all families and individuals with special needs here on the Oregon Coast. They have truly helped our son and many others with special needs in the rural community we call home.

Through outreach, education, support, and recreation, the gap between people of all abilities can be bridged. Please join me in bridging this gap as I train for the Pacific Crest Triathlon in SunRiver, OR in June. I am dedicating my first triathlon to Blake and all the people with special needs that the North Coast Down Syndrome Network serves.  Their spirit, love for life, and courage is inspiring.  I am asking for your donation to the North Coast Down Syndrome Network to keep the love, respect, dignity, and inspiration a reality for all the people who face special challenges everyday. Thank you all for your support.  And I promise...I wont quit :)

SIncerely,
Phil Chick