Ten years ago, our world was turned upside down in the most unexpected—and ultimately beautiful—way.

After an emergency C-section, we welcomed our daughter, Kennedy, into the world. She cried powerfully—a sound that filled us with joy and relief. But within hours, our joy was pierced by confusion and fear with words we weren't expecting - "I think your baby has Down syndrome."

The odds were 1 in 6,141. We were blindsided.

The fear. The grief. The unknown. We were overwhelmed.

But like a wildflower breaking through concrete, Kennedy grew with fierce beauty. Today, she is a thriving 10-year-old. She plays sports with her peers, has deep friendships, and radiates determination, humor, and heart. Kennedy works hard, plays harder, and brings laughter and joy wherever she goes. Her smile lights up the room, and her presence has reshaped our family in the most profound ways.

She’s more than we ever could’ve imagined.

Kennedy isn’t just "rocking" that extra chromosome—she’s redefining what’s possible. And yet, none of this would have been possible without early intervention, access to therapies, and a community that believed in her and in us.

That’s why we’re asking for your help.

Your gift to DSAW South Central ensures that other families, just like ours, never feel alone and will help the wildflowers to grow. You’ll support:  

• Parents facing a new diagnosis, with resources and mentorship
• Children gaining confidence through therapy, social groups, and life-skills coaching
• Teens and adults building friendships, employment skills, and independence
• Families connecting through events, community, and advocacy

Sometimes, life shakes us to relocate us to where we’re meant to be – giving us great beauty in the unexpected.

Kennedy brought us there. And today, we invite you to help bring that hope, support, and joy to more families—because every child deserves the chance to thrive, and every family deserves to know that they’re not alone.

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Donating through this website is simple, fast, and totally secure. It is also the most efficient way to support our fundraising efforts. You can make your tax-deductible donation online, or if you would prefer, you can send your contribution to the DSAW-South Central, 1009 W. Main Street, Sun Prairie, WI 53590 (Just be sure to write our team name on the memo line so that we get credit for the donation!) Whatever you can give will help - it all adds up! To sponsor us simply press Donate Now.

To join our team, click Register For This Event.

Many thanks for your support, and PLEASE don't forget to forward this to your entire address book and anyone else who you think might want to donate and register to walk as part of our team.

Fundraising can be scary or intimidating to many people, but it doesn't have to be! It can be as simple as sending an email or posting on social media. Try using this template to ask for donations from your friends and family:

“Dear Friends,

This year, my family has formed a team for the DSAW-South Central 24th Annual Down Syndrome Awareness Walk, on Sunday, October 5, at Fireman's Park in Deforest, WI. The goal of the Walk is to spread awareness and acceptance of Down syndrome throughout South Central Wisconsin, and to raise funds for our chapter's life-changing programs and services. As you may know, this cause is very important to us. [insert personal story]

Would you consider joining our team and/or making a donation to support our team and [insert name of loved one with Down syndrome]? Your donation will have a large impact on thousands of lives in Wisconsin. Please forward this email to your friends and family, too! In addition, if your business would be interested in sponsoring the walk, the funds will count towards our team's total! Visit our sponsorship packet to see all the benefits.

Use this link to join our team and make a donation: [insert personal link]

Thank you for supporting Down syndrome awareness! [Your name]”