Charlotte's Web

A month or so after Charlotte was born, I remember having a conversation with Missy about attending a local Down syndrome awareness walk. I was still in a pretty bad place; the shock of Charlotte's diagnosis was very fresh and her upcoming heart surgery loomed over us. However, I agreed that if I didn't have to do anything other than show up, I would be honored if Mis wanted to form a team for Charlotte. Missy set to work, sending out emails and fielding questions from friends and families. In the midst of all her efforts, we also talked about what we wanted to name our team. I am not sure who came up with Charlotte's Web, but it seemed like the logical choice. The web of support that had formed around Charlotte as well as Mike and I and the other kids was incredibly apparent from the start.

That September of 2010, the first Charlotte's Web team was formed, and over 90 of our friends and family walked with us. A few weeks later, I also started this blog and used the same name, as it was originally intended to be a method of communication for all those who wanted to updates about Charlotte during her heart surgery and recovery.

A year after our first Buddy walk, in October of 2011, another LARGE group of Charlotte's Web participants gathered and helped us raise a crazy amount of money. We had a great time, and Charlotte, now with a healthy heart and 15 months old was still inspiring our friends and family to not only accept difference, but embrace it.

Unfortunately our annual tradition of Buddy Walk took a hiatus in 2012 due to Charlotte's hospitalization for her Celiac disease. It was a rough, rough time for our family, and we were sad to miss the walk, but promised to be back in 2013.

AND, we will be.

Currently, Charlotte's Web is in the running for largest team at this Saturday's Buddy Walk. I don't think I will ever quite be able to comprehend the enormity all of those who support us. We thank you.

Over the past three years, Charlotte's Web has grown. New friends, therapists, and teachers have now come into her life and shown crazy amounts of unconditional love and support. Charlotte would not be who she is without her web. We thank each and every one of you.

There is still time to join our team. This event is so much more than the walk; there will be food, face painting, bounce houses, raffles, and more. Find out more by clicking here!