My wish.

I wish my Charlotte could go through life without adversity and stereotypes. I pray that she will never be on the receiving end of ignorance. I hope that one day the "r-word" will be non-existent, inclusion will be the norm, and others will know that individuals with Down syndrome are just like the rest of us.

However, though society has come a long way in the acceptance of those with disabilities, the reality is we aren't there yet. It is estimated that over 90 percent of women will terminate a baby known to have Down syndrome. Hollywood producers think it is okay to use the word "retard" and "downsy" in films. Many medical professionals still refer to my child as a Down's baby. And while inclusion is becoming more wide spread through the public schools in this country, there is no guarantee.

In order to get to the place of total acceptance, we need to educate. To spread the word; having a child with Down syndrome is not scary! To let the big wigs in movies and television know, we will not tolerate the use of disability slurs. And to shout it from roof tops, those with Down syndrome are capable, loving, intelligent human beings who deserve equal opportunities.

It is because of this that we are raising money for Wisconsin Upside Down's annual Buddy Walk. On behalf of Charlotte, and others with Down syndrome, we want to spread awareness and acceptance. Missy has once again offered to organize "Charlotte's Web" for us. I have copied her email she sent today below, please consider joining us. Thank you.

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Fourteen months ago, Charlotte entered this world and began changing lives immediately.   Unknowingly, Charlotte has set out from day one to prove that she is more alike than different.  She loves  the water, climbing all over her siblings, making messes, and going after anything she is not supposed to have. 

Charlotte inspires and humbles me daily.  She teaches me everyday about the person I want to be, the young men I want my children to become, and the world I want to live in.   I want her to be accepted for the amazing person that she is and she deserves nothing less...we all do. 

Every time I hear the song "My Wish" by Rascal Flats, I think of Charlotte.  This song so clearly articulates all of my wishes for her, it brings me to tears each time I hear it.  Please take a few minutes to watch the phenomenal video Emily made to share Charlotte and this song with you. 

 I am so proud to be able to organize Charlotte's Web.  She is surrounded by an amazing web of people who love and support her and her family in all that she chooses to do.  Please join us for this year's Buddy Walk on October 16th to help raise awareness and acceptance for Charlotte and all others with Down syndrome.  Help make my wishes for her come true.

Here is all of the information you need to join our team..

What:  Wisconsin Upside Down Buddy Walk
When:  October 16, 2011 at 10:00 am
Where:  Steinhafels off of I94 in Waukesha
Why: This event is sponsored by Wisconsin Upside Down, a local organization which provides information, advocacy, and support for individuals with Down syndrome and their families.

To join our team or donate:
http://buddywalk.kintera.org/wiusd/charlottesweb

Once on the website...
 - Click on "Join our Team"
- Agree to the waiver
- Fill out your information, if you do not want to make a separate fund raising page, you can leave this section blank.  Unfortunately you will have to register  and create a user name for each person in your family separately.
- You will want to register adult walkers under "TEAM"

To make a donation:
- Click on the "General Team Donation" tab  :)

Please let me know if you have any questions and feel free to pass this on!
Thank You, Missy