2022 Walk Ambassadors | Down Syndrome Network

Meet the 2022 Walk Ambassadors

💛 Meet Sienna 💙

Sienna. Age 6 almost 7 (will be 7 on November 3!) sienna loves to dance & sing! Her favorite place to be is the park 🙂 What does the Down […]

💛 Meet Grace 💙

Grace Harper is 6 years old and we brought her home from the hospital 6 years ago this October. She started kindergarten this year and loves school. She is obsessed […]

💙 Meet Edward 💛

My husband and I have 5 children, ages 16, 14, 12, 5 and 2. Edward is our 5 year old with Down Syndrome. His younger sister was quiet a surprise […]

💙 Meet Milo 💛

We are a family of four, Omar, Wendy, Bruno, and Milo, originally from Sonora, Mexico residing in Phoenix, Arizona, since 2019. We love to take our kids camping, hiking, and […]

💙 Meet Joseph 💛

We were blessed when Joseph was born. We were told Joseph would not be like all other children. We did not expect that at 6 weeks. Four therapists worked with […]

💙 Meet Joaquin 💛

Joaquin is 6 years old and lives with his parents and big sister, Ximena (10). He loves hitting balls around the house and dancing to his favorite music. He is […]

💙 Meet Brett 💛

Brett Logan is 19 years old and lives in Gilbert, AZ. We are originally from Colorado and have been in Arizona for about 4 years now. He is super outgoing, […]

💛 Meet Chloe 💙

Chloe is a 15 yr old, who lives here in the Valley, she LOVES music, movies with music (Encanto, and Turning Red are her current faves), reading (especially about history, […]

💛 Meet Angelina 💙

Angelina Cielo is the youngest of 4 sisters. The day she was born completely changed our family’s lives for the absolute better! She brings us so much joy and has […]

💙 Meet Anthony & Jazzy 💛

Our family was blessed with 2 wonderful children with Down Syndrome. Anthony is 7 and Jazzy is 4. Anthony is a social bug, he loves sports, pretend play and is […]

💛 Meet Charlotte 💙

Charlotte is 10 years old and is the second youngest of 5 siblings. When Charlotte is not showing off her dancing and spinning skills, you can find her in the […]

💛Meet Liam W💙

Liam is 7 years old and has a zest for life! He is passionate about music, dance, baseball, soccer, horseback riding, adaptive water sports, and, of course… Youtube videos and […]

💙 Meet Avraam 💛

My Son Avraam, a 3 year old boy, with a beautiful personality has Down syndrome, never did I know what a beautiful life this is. We are walking for awareness […]

💙 Meet Liam B 💛

Liam is loving 13 year old boy with Down syndrome and Autism. He loves anything to do with music – playing drums, dancing to all kinds of beats (especially Latin), […]

💛 Meet Anthony 💙

“Anthony is 10 years old. He is the sweetest, loves giving hugs, and showing how strong and brave he is. In his spare time, he loves wrestling, swimming, watching his iPad and making new friends.”

What does Down Syndrome Walk Arizona mean to you?

🌟 The walk is a great opportunity for us to get together with friends from all over. It raises awareness, understanding and brings the community together.

What is your favorite part of the Walk?

🌟 Coming together and raising awareness!

Donate or Join Happy Homies

“My husband Eric & I have 3 sweet boys. Twins that are 5 yrs old named Cruz & Eli. And our newest addition Beau who is 10 months old. We love family time together & making memories. We live in Gilbert AZ & enjoy the little everyday moments in our lives together. The twins love their brother so much & already take in the roles as older protective bothers. Their bond is pure magic & it brings me the upmost happiness. We feel lucky to have Beau in our lives as I often describe him as “pure magic”.”

What does Down Syndrome Walk Arizona mean to you?

🌟 The Down Syndrome Walk Arizona means everything to me & my family. I have always felt connected to people with Down Syndrome my entire life & feel honored that I have a son of my own who was born with Down Syndrome. My hope is that the world will see how beautiful Down Syndrome is & that they are embodiments of all things GOOD in the world.

How have DSNetwork’s program and services directly supported your family and loved one with Down syndrome?

🌟 My aunt has Down Syndrome so I believe your program has helped her as she is 40 yrs old now. I love all the resources you provide & valuable information for families that have a loved one with DS.

What is your favorite part of the Walk?

🌟 This will be our first time! We are so excited!!!

Donate or Join Beau-Vengers

💛 Meet Theodore 💙

“Theodore (Teddy) brings nothing but happiness and sunshine to the world! He’s almost always flashing a big smile, like he’s saying, “I’m just thrilled to be here and loving every moment of life!” He loves Elmo, music and playing with his cousins. He especially lights up when he’s flipping through books. His absolute favorite? A story about 10 dinosaurs that he could read again and again! Teddy lives in Gilbert with his mom (Corissa) and dad (Matthew). They are proud, Arizona natives who never pass up amazing Mexican food, find way too much joy in our Target runs, and are constantly daydreaming about our next family adventure out of town.”

What does Down Syndrome Walk Arizona mean to you?

🌟 It’s truly wonderful to celebrate the extraordinary individuals with Down syndrome and to walk with pride and joy in their honor. We’re thrilled to support the DS Network and help raise funds for the families who depend on its amazing work. And of course—Go Devils!

How have DSNetwork’s program and services directly supported your family and loved one with Down syndrome?

🌟 The staff has been absolutely wonderful to meet with and learn from. When you first find out that you’re blessed with a child with Down syndrome, it can feel overwhelming—you quickly realize there’s so much to learn. That’s why the networking events have been truly invaluable, giving us the chance to connect with other families who share similar experiences. Teddy’s dad has especially benefited from attending several DS DADS meetings, which have offered incredible insight and guidance about what to expect on this journey.

What is your favorite part of the Walk?

🌟 This will be our first walk, but we are so excited to join and can’t wait to participate in the future!

Donate or Join Lil’ Teddy Bear Wranglers

💛 Meet Jackson 💙

“Jackson turned 4 years old in July. He was born in Oklahoma City and now lives in Surprise, AZ. He is a lovable little man who loves motorcycles, Toy Story, Cars and he especially loves his dogs. He is very determined, ambitious and he doesn’t give up. He just recently started to walk without assistance. He makes friends wherever he goes. He has a big personality and an even bigger heart. Jackson is an incredible little man with a contagious smile.”

What does Down Syndrome Walk Arizona mean to you?

🌟 It’s a day where friends, family, and members of the community come together to support and celebrate individuals with down syndrome.

How have DSNetwork’s program and services directly supported your family and loved one with Down syndrome?

🌟 Through the programs and events that the DSNetwork have hosted we have been able to make great friends that have turned into family. We have more support and resources than we had before.

What is your favorite part of the Walk?

🌟 Getting together with our friends and family. The opportunity to make new connections with other families.

Donate or Join Jackson’s Round Up Gang

💛 Meet Zinnia 💙

“Zinnia is now two and half years old. She has defied all our expectations. She is stubborn like me and smart like her mom. She loves her brother, and we know that he is a huge reason she has excelled at everything she does (she must keep up with him and hold her own against him).”

What does Down Syndrome Walk Arizona mean to you?

🌟 Three years ago, when Elisha was twelve weeks pregnant, we received life altering news that Zinnia would be born with Down syndrome. Neither of us had much exposure to anyone with Down syndrome, and we were pretty devastated by this news. If we knew then what we know now, we could have told ourselves that we were in for one of the most amazing journeys of our lives and
everything was going to be more than OK.

How have DSNetwork’s program and services directly supported your family and loved one with Down syndrome?

🌟 The most impactful program for me has been Dad’s Appreciating Down Syndrome (D.A.D.S). When Zinnia was a newborn, I attended my first D.A.D.S meeting in Phoenix. I had the opportunity to meet other dads and learn about the importance of physical therapy for people with Down syndrome. D.A.D.S meets monthly and is an opportunity for dads to get together to share information, listen to speakers, learn from community advocates, and support each other through the often difficult and unpredictable journey of raising a child with Down syndrome.

Donate or Join The Rowdy Martins

💛 Meet Beckett 💙

“My name is Beckett, I was born in Arizona and I have two loving parents and three older siblings. I love being the life of the party and copying whatever my older brothers are doing. I enjoy playing football, soccer and playing with my toys. I also enjoy being outside when the weather is nice and love babies. I love my family!”

What does Down Syndrome Walk Arizona mean to you?

The DS Walk means a lot to me. It’s important to me to continue to help create awareness and be an advocate for our DS community.

How has DSNetwork’s program and services directly supported your family and loved one with Down syndrome?

DSN has been great! They have a variety of resources at their disposal regarding anything a new DS parent would need to self-educate. The team itself at DSN of AZ is super helpful and always willing to assist.

What is your favorite part of the Walk?

Smiling is healthy! Every year I look forward to this event because it’s the one day of the year no matter what life challenges we’re all experiencing that you can just smile ear to ear for a day. Nothing is more rewarding than seeing the joy and happiness in our DS community as we come together to raise awareness.

Donate or Join Team Beckett >>>

💛 Meet Sydney 💙

We live in Surprise with our daughter Sydney who is a vibrant, joyful 9 year old with Down Syndrome who brings so much light into our lives. She has an incredible love for music and dance, and it’s truly how she expresses herself. She fills our home with a constant energy and joy. We are incredibly lucky to witness her grow and embrace life like nobody is watching. She is truly one of a kind, and her heart is as big as her smile.

What does Down Syndrome Walk Arizona mean to you?

The Down Syndrome Walk holds a deeply personal meaning for me and my family. It represents more than just a day of raising awareness, it’s a celebration of Sydney and the vibrant community that surrounds us. Walking alongside others who share our journey creates a powerful sense of belonging and solidarity. It’s a time to honor the unique strengths and joys that come with Down syndrome while advocating for greater inclusion and understanding.

How has DSNetwork’s program and services directly supported your family and loved one with Down syndrome?

The DS Network’s program and services have been an invaluable source of support for our family. Through these programs, we’ve connected with other families who share similar experiences, creating a strong sense of community and understanding. From workshops to social events, the programs offer guidance and encouragement to better understand Sydney’s unique needs and development.

What is your favorite part of the Walk?

My favorite part of the Walk is meeting all of the incredible people who come together for this special event. The sense of community is truly heartwarming.

DONATE OR JOIN SYDNEY’S SMILE >>>

💛 Meet Kate 💙

My husband and I have 3 wonderful children, William 8, Logan 5 and Kate 3. Kate is our homie with an extra chromie! We are located in Gilbert, AZ. Kate loves to play with her family and friends. She also loves to go to school and her favorite show is Miss Rachael. Kate was 2lbs 1ounce when she was born and was in the NICU for 73 days. We were told that she had many medical issues when I was pregnant with her including needing heart surgery. To our surprise, when she was born, her heart was just fine! Kate is a miracle and we are so blessed to have her.

What does Down Syndrome Walk Arizona mean to you?

It means we get to bring awareness to how special people with Down Syndrome are. It’s a way we get to show our love and support for our loved ones.

How has DSNetwork’s program and services directly supported your family and loved one with Down syndrome?
DSNetwork has support groups that you can join. The specific one that I’m a part of is babies born around the same time as Kate. This has been extremely helpful with all the questions that you have raising a child with Down syndrome. Kate was also able to take a swim class this summer through DSNetwork. She loved that!

What is your favorite part of the Walk?
This will be our first year!

DONATE OR JOIN KATE’S KREW >>>

💛 Meet Daisy 💙

Daisy is a spunky three year old who loves dogs, music and water play, anything water even the bathtub. She lives in Waddell with her mom (Sarah), dad (Rick) and big brother (5 year old Dale). Her brother is her best friend and biggest supporter.

What does Down Syndrome Walk Arizona mean to you?

I love the inclusion this walk provides. Getting out there and showing the community that we are more alike than different and have a wonderful, supportive community.

How has DSNetwork’s program and services directly supported your family and loved one with Down syndrome?

The DSNetwork has brought friends and supporters into our lives that we never would have had otherwise. The community it provides is above anything I have ever experienced. I love that there are seasoned families that can help guide us and answer the many many questions that have come up over the past 3 years.

What is your favorite part of the Walk?

My favorite part of the walk is seeing the community treat our children like super stars. The smiles, high fives and clapping just warms my heart and makes my daughter feel so loved and special! The celebration afterwards and resources available is a close second.

DONATE OR JOIN DAISY’S DREAM TEAM >>>

💛 Meet Jacob & Nathan 💙

Our three boys are Hunter, Jacob, and Nathan. Jacob and Nathan both have Down Syndrome. All three boys are full of energy and smiles. Jacob loves music and Nathan is our heart warrior who is learning the world around him as he is still a newborn.

What does Down Syndrome Walk Arizona mean to you?

The Down Syndrome walk is an opportunity to spread awareness, allow inclusion, bring community together, and an all around fun event! This walk helps advocate for our family and friends who have Down Syndrome and it has been a positive experience.

How has DSNetwork’s program and services directly supported your family and loved one with Down syndrome?

The support we have received from the DSNetwork members and community are immeasurable. The amount of knowledge and life experience has given us insight and hope during some of our most challenging times. We love their staff and appreciate their kindness. Jacob and Nathan especially loved music class offered through the DSNetwork.

What is your favorite part of the Walk?

Walking in unity with our family and friends and others in the Down Syndrome community to show our gratitude of all the support we have received.

DONATE OR JOIN Jacob & Nathan’s Strong Man Crew >>>

💛 Meet Archer 💙

Archer just turned one on July 31st. He lives in San Tan Valley with mom (Stacy) , dad (Tylor) and sisters (Olivia-9 and Iyla-6). He loves crinkle paper, the empty wipe container, things that he can bang together, pulling hair, licking everything, and stealing your food. He can roll everywhere and recently learned how to clap and wave. When he smiles you can’t help but smile back even when it’s 4am and he’s supposed to be sleeping. He has taught us to slow down and enjoy the little things and to celebrate the milestones no matter how “small” they may seem.

What does Down Syndrome Walk Arizona mean to you?

It’s a day where friends and family come together to support and show love to all the individuals with Down syndrome.

How has DSNetwork’s program and services directly supported your family and loved one with Down syndrome?

Archer was a birth diagnosis. We were sent home with no resources. Luckily a friend of my cousin told me to look up the DSN for our area.
We attended the walk last year as well as other events throughout the year where we were given endless support and resources we didn’t even know we needed. And we became a part of a community that feels more like one big family.

What is your favorite part of the Walk?

Getting our friends and family together to support Archer and all his friends. And just feeling all the love and support from the community.

Donate or Join Archer’s Crew

💛 Meet Sophie Grace 💙

Sophie Grace is 9 years old. She is outgoing and loves to be little miss independent and keep up with her two siblings. She loves playing with our three dogs, and is drawn to babies anytime she sees them. She thrives off of music and dancing. We live in Goodyear, but she has already gotten to travel so much already since her dad lives in Alabama. She has already traveled the entire southern United States, a total of 14 states at nine years old, and she loves it! She has an older brother who is 16 and a younger sister who is 8. She is definitely the shining light of our family!

What does Down Syndrome Walk Arizona mean to you?

The walk is so important to us, I believe we have participated every year since she was born in 2014. We take pride in advocating for people with Down syndrome, and putting them in the spotlight so more people become more aware of Down Syndrome.

How has DSNetwork’s program and services directly supported your family and loved one with Down syndrome?

Since she was born, in 2014

What is your favorite part of the Walk?

Getting to meet other families who have a loved one with Down Syndrome. It’s like another family we got to acquire after having Sophie.

Donate or Join TEAM SOPHIE GRACE >>>