On April 25, 2007, my husband's nephew Allen Scott Machamer made his way into the world 5 weeks early with severe jaundice, a serious heart defect, and a diagnosis of Down syndrome.  We weren't certain how long Allen would be with us, and life seemed pretty bleak.

Fast forward 2 years later, and you'll find Allen happy and energetic, with a clean bill of health.  His heart was repaired 5 days after his first birthday, and he hasn't stopped going, going, going since! 

All this to say that Allen and his family have greatly benefited from the services of first the Kansas City Down Syndrome Guild (Go Eastland Friends!) and now the Omaha Down Syndrome Parents Network.  Please consider donating toward our fundraising goal for the Buddy Walk this year so that others can benefit from the same love and support we received when Allen was born.  Thanks!