BENEFITING: Research Down Syndrome
ORGANIZER: Research Down Syndrome
THE STORY:
My adorable niece, Avery Grace Gordon, was born on September 26, 2010 with Trisomy 21 - more commonly known as Down Syndrome. She has triumphed through a miriad of health challenges, including heart surgery at 2 mos old that had complications. It resulted in breathing difficulties and ultimately needing a trach to survive. During these first 21 months, she has not allowed her health challenges slow her down, managing to learn sign language (currently ~100 signs), start potty training and to consistantly learn new things from her amazing parents. I'm running the 1/2 marathon in honor of Avery and to fundraise for Research Down Syndrome (RDS) which helps research safe and effective therapies to improve learning and memory in persons with Down Syndrome.
07/06/2012: A wonderful update to Avery's story: she was able to have her trach removed this week! While there are still potential issues associated with the complication during surgery, this was a huge step forward for both her and her parents. This has provided further inspiration towards my goal of finding ways to help her and others with Downs Syndrome, people that should never be underestimated in what they can accomplish!!
Thank you, Avery, for being such a wonderful, smart and adorable motivator!!!
You can read more of her story at:
http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/averygordon
(note - you may be required to set up an account with Caringbridge if you don't already have one) Thank you!!!
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