Brady's Walk 2009

On Sunday, April 26, at 1 p.m. the third annual Brady’s Walk 2009 will be held at D.W. Field Park in Brockton to raise money for the Williams Syndrome Association New England Region.

As many of you know, my son Brady, was born in October 2005 with this genetic condition that affects 1 in every 7,500 births which causes physical and cognitive disabilities. The money raised will go to the Williams Syndrome Association (http://www.williams-syndrome.org/). This organization is pinnacle in aiding research efforts, WS education, and bridging a community of support and friendship. This Fall, the WSA will be holding the first-ever Regional Conference to help families in all aspects touched by this syndrome - medical, social, behavioral. We are excited to help bring this conference into being!

Brady is now three-and-a-half years old and has been on fire! In October he started preschool at the Bellingham Early Childhood Program four mornings a week, where he also has all his therapies. He is thriving at this school he loves, having fun with friends and at the water table, his favorite. He is using his posterior walker to get around, and is practically racing in it -- we are hoping that he will soon just start walking without it.

Health-wise, this has been a positive year. Brady had open heart surgery in February where he and I camped out at Children's Hospital for 10 days. Thanks to all of you for your prayers, visits and gifts... as scary as the situation was, it was well worth it -- as just spending one afternoon with him NOW can attest to! The surgery has done wonders for his energy level and aptitude. He doesn't slow down, cruising around and talking up a storm. It seems there is a light on the horizon now, as his development keeps moving forward at a great speed.

If you would like to join us in the Walk, please do! Last year we had over 85 adults and children (and two dogs!) participate, by walking, scooting and bike riding. We've seen the walk grow every year, both in numbers and in the size of the check we are able to donate to the WSA. We also have some fabulous raffle prizes this year, generously donated... a couple of nice surprises!

Donations for Walkers are $5 for a child, $10 for an Adult, or $25 for a Family. Attached is a pledge sheet if you would like to get additional sponsors. (Checks are to be made out to WSA.) Please let me know if you are walking, so I can order your t-shirt and send you information for the day. You'll also get details about the After Party, always fabulous with food, entertainment and fun!

If you aren't able to come but would like to donate, please email me and I will let you know the address. Checks are to be made out to WSA. If you would like to donate a raffle prize, please email me at farrell4503@comcast.net.

Thanks in advance!
Kerry Farrell