End the R-word
We created this video in support of the Spread the Word to End the Word campaign, an on-going initiative from Special Olympics and Best Buddies to eradicate the derogatory use of the word “retard(ed)” from everyday use and promote the inclusion and acceptance of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Five siblings of individuals with Down syndrome in Idaho’s Treasure Valley volunteered to help us spread the word that their brother or sister with Down syndrome is not defined by their disability. A big thanks to all those who helped us create this video by...
Read More2011 TVDSA Buddy Walk – Our Very Own PSA
The Buddy Walk is a great opportunity each October for those of us who love someone with Down syndrome to share our feelings with everyone we know! Yes, the walk is the biggest fundraiser of the year for TVDSA, but it’s also a vehicle for creating community awareness. And, if you have ever been to the Buddy Walk before, you know it’s a CELEBRATION! The atmosphere is fun, energetic, and joyous, and that’s because we’re so excited to tell the community what these individuals with Down syndrome mean to us. It’s a celebration of them! This year, we were lucky enough...
Read MoreOur Stories – Aaden Vranish
On December 17, 2008 a little angel sent by God was delivered into our arms. He weighed 4lbs 13oz and was 16 inches long. We went through a lot of trials and tribulations to get him here. But it was all worth it. After 4 miscarriages I was pregnant again and VERY scared this would be number 5. I spent a lot of time on my knees praying this little baby would stick. My anxiety was so high I would shake and sweat in the waiting room before seeing my doctor. I worried there wouldn’t be a heartbeat. It was very nerve breaking. I had a hard time sleeping and functioning throughout the day until a...
Read MoreOur Stories – Baylee Auger
Baylee is a blessing. She can fill a room with happiness and smiles. She continually supersedes expectations, both in academics and in extracurricular activities. Yes, there are frustrations at times, but what parent doesn’t have any frustrations with their kids? It does bother me occasionally, when people still jump to conclusions about what to expect or even want from her, as I know she can do so much more. But their subconscious labeling of what they think individuals with Down syndrome (or any other disability for that matter) can do stops them from...
Read More