Welcome to our 2025 Columbus Buddy Walk® team fundraising page! We can't wait to celebrate Kollyns on Sunday, October 5! Please stay tuned for more information about our team's tailgating plans for the 2025 Columbus Buddy Walk!
Celebrate Kollyns and support the lucky few community!
If you don’t already know her story here’s a little intro from the MVP herself, Kollyns aka Kolly:
Hi everyone- I’m Kollyns Nelson and I am 3.5 years old. I was given an after birth diagnosis of Trisomy 21 (Down Syndrome) a few days after I was born. I spent 9 weeks in Nationwide Children’s NICU, learning how to eat after the doctor fixed my intestinal blockages. My Mom & Dad (Karly & Tanner), sure went through a wild ride of emotions when learning about my diagnosis. But guess what... my mom & dad came together stronger than ever and decided they were going to give me and our family the best life possible. I feel like the luckiest girl in the world to have them, and my little sister, Kalihan as my family.
I am so proud to be part of the lucky few! But here’s the thing guys, this little thing called Down Syndrome is just one part of me. Some other important things about me- I love to smile at my favorite people, dance to EVERY song, travel with my family, visit aquariums and play with my stuffies- Lido Otter, Foxy & Lottie Axolotl. I've had alot of fun and have loved making new friends during preschool. My teachers and therapists say I light up the classroom.
If you’ve met me, I hope I’ve made you smile, laugh and maybe even taught you something about living with Down Syndrome. I was born with low muscle tone, so that makes learning to walk and talk more challenging. It also takes me a little longer to learn most things but I work so hard with my parents and therapists to figure out ways I can uniquely meet my goals. I can take steps with the support of a walker or from helping hands, before needing a break. Phew! It's such hard work! I keep getting stronger--always pulling to stand, getting close to mastering my standing balance, and trying to explore the world around me.
I hope to see you at the Buddy Walk! -Kollyns
With over 250,000 people in the United States with Down syndrome, DSACO strives to provide tools and opportunities that promote awareness, acceptance, and inclusion in our communities. Every dollar we raise brings us one step closer to ensuring that every person with Down syndrome will have the opportunity to reach their potential.
Our fundraising efforts will support local programs and services through the Down Syndrome Association of Central Ohio (DSACO).
Make your tax-deductible donation today and take the first step toward helping us achieve our goal. Thank you for your support!