Buddy Walk 2007

Today entry is about my soon to be nine year old niece, Chloe. The above picture is her with her mom Lisa. Chloe will be participating in her 8th IDSF Buddy Walk. Chloe was born with Down Syndrome and has had to work very hard to reach every developmental milestone. Most people who hear we have a member of our family with Down Syndrome immediately say, "They are so sweet and loving."

While Chloe can be those things they are not the adjectives that first come to my mind when discribing her. I would say she is strong willed, determined, stubborn, independent, sensitive, girly and very, very flexible. She is part of the Deveaus Darlings cheerleading team. She loves to practice and will stand in front of anything with a reflection, i.e. mirror, TV, patio door and practice getting her moves just right. She has a smile that can light up a room.

Chloe's biggest challenge has been her inability to vocalize. As Chloe's aunt, I hope and pray for the day that she will be able to communicate with her friends and family whether through talking or a machine. The only benefit of this has been to her little brother who can blame everything on her saying, "Chloe did it!" We would all jump for joy at hearing her say, "Did not!"

Chloe's mom, Lisa is an active mom always on the go and a wonderful advocate for Chloe. She has fought hard for Chloe's rights making sure that she can get all the help possible. Nothing comes easy for a family who is touched by Down Syndrome and by sponsoring Lisa & Chloe Hipkiss in the Buddy Walk you are helping to raise awareness and funding for research.



Chloe with her mommy and brothers! They all love each other bunchies!