Aiken’s Buddy Walk Shines Bright for Down Syndrome Awareness
On a beautiful day in Aiken, the sun was shining brightly as the community came together for the annual Buddy Walk at USC Aiken on October 13. With clear skies and temperatures reaching a delightful 71°F, families, friends, and supporters gathered on the quad to celebrate individuals with Down syndrome and raise awareness about the genetic condition.
Celebrating Gifts and Talents
The Buddy Walk is more than just a stroll; it’s a celebration of inclusion and acceptance. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Down syndrome occurs when a person has an extra copy of chromosome 21, impacting their brain and body development. Jenny Hall, one of the event organizers, emphasized the walk’s purpose: “The point of it is to celebrate and to include individuals with Down syndrome and just let the community know they have many gifts and talents they can offer that people don’t think they can.”
Participants gathered at the Quad for the festive half-mile walk, where supportive signs were showcased as families and teams were awarded for their efforts. This annual event, which has taken place in Aiken since 2008, resumed in 2023 following a hiatus during the COVID-19 pandemic.
A Family Reunion Vibe
The Hall family has been deeply involved with the Buddy Walk since its inception in Aiken. Their son, Jordan Hall, has Down syndrome and was the motivation for the family’s commitment to the cause. “We really just want people to advocate, be aware of Down syndrome and the great possibilities… they are not just a diagnosis,” Jenny Hall explained. She described the day as a “kind of like a family reunion,” where everyone could enjoy each other’s company and the festive atmosphere.
Jordan, who enthusiastically participated in the walk, shared his excitement, mentioning how much he loves playing basketball during the event. It was evident that the walk also served as an opportunity for friendships to blossom, with group gatherings sprinkled throughout the day.
The Importance of Awareness
Throughout the Buddy Walk, community members shared their personal experiences and reasons for attending. Stephanie Prandy, a member of the Beta Club, highlighted that her daughter served as a caregiver for an individual with Down syndrome for several years. She believes that educating others about the challenges faced by those with the condition is crucial. “Just to learn how to be a support and to make people aware,” she remarked.
Families like that of Laurie Harrelson, who attended with her daughter Reagan and her best friend Amiya Plunkett, found joy in witnessing the camaraderie among participants. “I thought it would be fun to bring them out and let them see everything, and it’s just so much fun seeing all the adults with Down syndrome and everyone just coming together,” Harrelson said with a smile.
A Celebration of Friendship
For families like Veron Broome’s, the Buddy Walk provided a perfect opportunity for their son Corey Hudson to reconnect with his friend Jordan. Broome expressed how the event fosters a sense of community among families. “It is one of those things where all the buddies can come out and see each other,” he said, considering the Halls to be part of his family. “This is all what this Buddy Walk is all about.”
The day was filled with laughter and games, including basketball before the walk, where many spent time playing with friends. As Paul Boyce shot hoops with a big grin, it was clear that the Buddy Walk was not only about raising awareness; it was also about creating lasting memories.
Final Thoughts
The Buddy Walk in Aiken is a testament to the strength of community and the importance of embracing differences. With the sun setting on a day filled with activities, laughter, and connection, participants left with hearts full of joy and a renewed sense of purpose. Aiken continues to shine as a beacon of hope and inclusion for individuals with Down syndrome, reminding everyone that every life is full of potential and should be celebrated.
