We’re the Castaneda family, based in Glendale, Arizona. Our daughter Erica, who is now 18 and in her senior year of high school, has been the light of our lives. She loves music, dancing, and spending time with her family and friends. We’ve been active members of the Down Syndrome Network of Arizona for many years, and it’s been a cornerstone in our journey with Erica.

• What does Down Syndrome Walk Arizona mean to you?

The Buddy Walk is more than just an event for us; it’s a celebration of community, acceptance, and the unique qualities that make each individual special. It’s a day when we feel embraced by a community that understands our challenges and celebrates our victories, no matter how small. It’s a reminder that we’re not alone on this journey.

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

DS Network has been invaluable to us, providing resources, activities, and a sense of community that we couldn’t find elsewhere. They’ve helped us navigate the educational system, find inclusive activities for Erica, and connected us with other families who share similar experiences. Their support has been a lifeline, especially during transitional phases like Erica entering her senior year.

• What is your favorite part of the Walk?

Our favorite part of the Buddy Walk is the sense of unity and celebration. Seeing Erica’s face light up as she walks and interacts with the community is priceless. It’s a day filled with love, laughter, and the kind of understanding that only comes from shared experiences.

We’re honored that Erica has been selected as an ambassador this year. As she steps into adulthood, we’re excited to see her take on this leadership role within a community that has given us so much. We hope that our participation encourages others to support this incredible organization that has been a pillar of strength for our family.

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We are the Pinault’s and we would like to introduce you to our busy family! We live on the west side of Phoenix Arizona, in Goodyear. Our family is a mix of personalities and interests, making each day full of adventure. At the heart of it all is our youngest, Ayrton, who is currently 1 ½ years old. Ayrton has Down syndrome, which is just part of what makes him such a unique and amazing character. He’s always exploring and learning new ways to do things. His infectious smile brightens up our lives every single day. Ayrton has three siblings. Layla, is our reserved and calculated four-year-old daughter. She takes joy in teaching Ayrton new skills. CJ is our energetic nine-year-old son. He is always on the move and eager to look out for his little brother. Adrianna is the oldest of the bunch and will be turning 12 this year. She loves playing volleyball and is a tremendous help with the rest of the gang. We’re also a family of dog lovers, with three friendly pups – Ringo, Trooper, and Senna. As you can imagine, they add even more excitement to our daily adventures. Speaking of adventures, we’re a family that loves the great outdoors. Whether it’s swimming in the pool, camping under the stars, or exploring new destinations, we treasure every chance to create enduring memories together. Beach trips and mountain getaways hold a special place in our hearts. We celebrate diversity, value togetherness, and embrace the beauty of life with all its quirks. Ayrton, with his boundless enthusiasm and loving spirit, serves as a daily reminder that our differences are what truly make us special.

• What does Down Syndrome Walk Arizona mean to you?

To us, the Down Syndrome Walk holds deep significance. It’s not just an event; it’s a symbol of unity, support, and celebration. It’s a day when families, friends, and communities come together to raise awareness, advocate for inclusivity, and show love for individuals like my son Ayrton who have Down syndrome. This event allows families, like ours, who have received invaluable support from the Down Syndrome Network, to give back by raising both money and awareness. It’s our way of saying “thank you” and ensuring that this network can continue to provide much-needed assistance to others.

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

The Down Syndrome Network has had a positive impact on our family. When we first learned about Ayrton’s Down syndrome diagnosis, they were the first to reach out. Their support provided us with multiple resources, some of which we didn’t even realize we needed. The Down Syndrome Network has also provided us with groups specifically designed to provide support for Dads and Moms of children with Down Syndrome. These groups have allowed us to connect with parents who understand our experiences. Lastly, we’ve had the pleasure of attending events organized by the Down Syndrome Network. These occasions have allowed us to attend sporting events and family activities alongside other families who are also on this remarkable journey. It’s helps build togetherness and feels like being part of one big, extended family.

• What is your favorite part of the Walk?

One of our favorite aspects of the walk is how it serves as a heartfelt gathering that connects families and friends who share the love for someone with Down syndrome. It’s a day when we can share our experiences, offer and receive guidance, and form bonds that extend far beyond the event itself. But perhaps more importantly, the Down Syndrome Walk is a grand stage. It’s where we get to showcase to the world just how amazing, intelligent, and capable individuals with Down syndrome truly are. It’s a platform to challenge stereotypes and misconceptions, replacing them with a more inclusive and accurate understanding of their potential.

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Roberto es mi único hijo, tiene 4 años, en octubre 24 cumplirá los 5! Roberto, su papá y yo vivimos en Mesa y estamos tan emocionados y orgullosos de Roberto, porque desde que él nació se ha esforzado increíblemente por lograr metas, unas con más esfuerzo que otras, algunas batallas perdidas pero siempre con la vitalidad, energía y felicidad con la que él hace todo! Es un niño muy bueno, disciplinado, respetuoso, amable y sobretodo amoroso! Disfruta bastante de caminar, explorar y le atrae mucho la música pero su pasión es todo lo relacionado con el agua, le fascina!

• Qué significa para usted la Caminata por el Síndrome de Down en Arizona?

Para nosotros es un honor y orgullo poder participar en esta caminata por tercer año consecutivo porque significa que nuestra comunidad de síndrome de down, está cada vez más incluida y también es bastante significativo para nosotros el impacto tan positivo que damos como sociedad!

• Cómo han apoyado directamente el programa y los servicios de DSNetwork a su familia y a su ser querido con síndrome de Down?

Los programas y servicios que ofrece DSNetwork han sido muy importantes en la vida de Roberto y en la de nosotros, sus padres por muchas razones; hemos conocido a otras familias que han vivido situaciones similares a las nuestras y creamos empatía que a menudo es difícil obtener con personas que no han vivido lo mismo, no quiero decir que es menor la empatía con las familias que no tienen a alguien con síndrome de down, pero sí es diferente! Otra razón es que los eventos y programas son increíbles y dejan huella en la vida de nuestros pequeños y la nuestra como padres porque en cada evento son tan felices que estamos esperando siempre el siguiente! También y muy importante es todo el aprendizaje que adquirimos cada vez que asistimos a los programas, es realmente grandioso!

• Cuál es tu parte favorita de la Caminata?

Mi parte favorita de la caminata es poder tener la oportunidad de crear la concientización en la sociedad sobre la inclusión, aceptación, empatía, amor y respeto por nuestra comunidad de síndrome de down, así como presentar que somos una GRAN COMUNIDAD CON UN CROMOSOMA EXTRA DE AMOR!

Queremos agradecer la oportunidad de poder pertenecer a esta maravillosa comunidad, nos sentimos tan honrados y orgullosos porque Roberto ha sido elegido este año como Embajador de Down Syndrome Walk Arizona!

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Dylan will be 8 years old in October. He loves to dance, swim and play all day. He also loves doors, cars, music, his friends (human and imaginary i.e. Elmo, Hand and Monkey) and whenever anybody cheers for him.

• What does Down Syndrome Walk Arizona mean to you?

The Walk means so much to us because this will be the first time our Dilly gets to “WALK”. With all the many medical obstacles that our sweet Dill faced, walking was something we only dreamed of, at one time. With all his hard work, determination and strength to over come, that dream is now a reality. This is his first year walking independently and he is here to show us that miracles really do happen.

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

The DSNetwork offers so many opportunities for education, community involvement, raising awareness in relation to Down syndrome and plenty of events and gatherings for our families to meet and mingle. Those friends are now family and they have saved me, fueled me, guided me and given me strength to go out there and advocate for my Dilly. The support is overwhelming and we are so grateful.

• What is your favorite part of the Walk?

My favorite part of the walk is seeing the way the community responds to our extraordinary families. The outpouring of love and support takes my breath away. Dylan’s favorite part of the walk is all the attention he gets!! Especially in the form of smiling, waving, and cheering. He feels like a Superstar.

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Our family loves being active, going to the park, playing at the beach, and most of all traveling. We live in Buckeye – Adam (daddy), Kelly (mommy), Bode (big brother age 9), and Berkeley (DS Superstar age 7) with our border collie, Apollo, who thinks his soul mission in life is to protect our kids. Berkeley loves her big brother, Bode, and all of her family. She is a self-proclaimed “daddy’s girl.” Although her favorite class at her school is PE, which her mom teaches. Berkeley makes friends everywhere she goes. She loves playing at the park, swimming, and most of all reading. Her favorite author is Mo Willems. Berkeley enjoys waking up way too early in morning, being assertive, taking trips to Starbucks and Dutch Bros, watching Disney+ (only if it is on her avatar), and playing “school” with her dolls.

• What does Down Syndrome Walk Arizona mean to you?

Although we have done previous walks and events, this is our first DSN Walk! It is so exciting for our family and Berkeley’s village to come together and support DSN, all individuals with DS, and spread acceptance.

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

I am so grateful for the programs that DSN has offered. It has allowed us to meet so many families. As a mom I have been able to talk and learn from other mom’s that understand what my life, day in and day out, is really like. When Berkeley was first diagnosed, I never imagined all the friendships and close bonds I would make with the DS community. Knowing there is such a large group willing and able to support Berkeley and our family helps me realize even more how truly lucky we are to be her parents.

• What is your favorite part of the Walk?

The enormous feeling of gratitude, support, and love.

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Alexandra is 14 years old and in 8th grade. She has the best big brother, Jack, who is 16 years old and a junior in high school. Alex is an athlete and plays many sports to include basketball, baseball, soccer and golf, and she loves riding her bike to school. She tried out and made her middle school basketball team in seventh grade and learned so much while having a great inclusive experience. She has been fully included since preschool and loves school. Alex loves going on adventures and exploring the country with her family. She is just a fun loving, independent teenager with all the attitude and hormones that go along with that.

• What does Down Syndrome Walk Arizona mean to you?

We have been going to this event since we moved here in 2010 when Alex was 1 years old. Through our generous friends and family we have raised well over $15,000 for the DSNetwork of Arizona. It is a huge event with a large turnout that helps raise awareness and acceptance for those with Down syndrome. It is always a fun day!

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

They have opportunities for such high quality training for both parents and self advocates. The support system and networking of parents involved in this organization is amazing.

• What is your favorite part of the Walk?

Gathering a group of friends and family together to walk the parade route and seeing all the support from the community. Every year we always have Alex’s grandparents along and various friends throughout the years to even include her middle school principal and her family last year.

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