Health

Down Syndrome Association of Los Angeles 14th Annual Buddy Walk

Written By: Sam Savage

Down Syndrome Association of Los Angeles (DSALA): 

 Who:    Down Syndrome Association of Los Angeles (DSALA) with Emcee Mark Wallengren of KOST's Morning Show, Grand Marshal Nancy O'Dell of "Access Hollywood," Kym Johnson of "Dancing with the Stars" and National Buddy Walk Spokesperson John C. McGinley of "Scrubs."  What:   14th Annual Buddy Walk for the Down Syndrome Association of Los Angeles.  When:   Sunday, November 2, 2008, 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM 10:00 AM to 11 AM Check in 11:30 AM to 3:00 PM Festivities 12:00 PM Program & Walk followed by Medal Presentation 11:30 AM to 1:30 PM Lunch is served  Where: Santa Anita Park, Arcadia, CA Race Track Infield; enter at Gate 6 off Colorado Place (free parking)  Program: Begins at Noon and will include a dance number from "High School Musical" with Kym Johnson of "Dancing with the Stars" and her dance students from the Down Syndrome Association of Los Angeles ages 2 to 52.  Cost $20 per adult Includes access to all activities, lunch and t-shirt (guaranteed with pre-registration)  Registration Information: Call DSALA at 818-242-7871 or go to the website at www.dsala.org.

Festivities include:

Game Booths, Pony Rides, Dance Pavilion, Arts and Crafts, Rides in the Air Force Mini Jets, LA Galaxy, Race Car show, obstacle course, raffle, vendor information fair, entertainment.

Visuals: 1500 walkers from strollers to seniors, all in teams supporting individuals with Down syndrome walking the infield at Santa Anita Park Racetrack; mini jet rides, games, art centers, dance and acting workshops and a lot of people just having a good time.

Additional Information on Down Syndrome

Down syndrome is the most common genetic condition affecting all ethnicities and approximately 1 in 800 births. Individuals with Down syndrome have an extra copy of the 21st chromosome which causes physical differences and disabilities. Most people with Down syndrome live a rich and productive life thanks to organizations like that DSALA which has been providing services for more then 30 years in the Greater Los Angeles Area.