On Wednesday March 21, World Down Syndrome Day, a day to celebrate the lives of those with Down syndrome in society and advocate for their rights and inclusion, a group of individuals in New York threw a WDSD Party to celebrate this special date and launch the film Summer in the Forest.
Read about the movie here – L’Arche founder Jean Vanier shows a path to love in ‘Summer in the Forest’
The event was organized by Lauren Costabile and Max and Robert Toone and was attended by many individuals making positive strides and living lives that are making an impact to promote the dignity of all human life. Among the guests were:
– John of “John’s Crazy Socks,” a father-son venture inspired by John Lee Cronin, a young man with Down syndrome, and his love of colorful and fun socks, or what he calls his “crazy socks.” With a goal of spreading happiness through socks, and turning that into a multi-million dollar venture and hiring people with disabilities to do so, John has shown the world proof of what is possible.
– Sofia Sanchez, who was orphaned in Ukraine at birth because of her disability. She has thrived under the care of her adopted parents, and is now a highly-sought child model, actress and spokesperson.
See the photo gallery from the event HERE
– Eddie Barbanell, an actor and comedian with Down syndrome, best known for playing the character of Billy in the 2005 film The Ringer.
– Collete Divitto, the founder of the Boston cookie company Collettey’s Cookies, who also has Down syndrome.
– Chloe Herrington, also known as “Coco,” who has Down syndrome and has inspired thousands through her battle with leukemia.
– Paul Costabile, entertainment reporter and host of the new Universal Kids game show Beat the Clock.
– Kurt Kondrich, speaker and advocate for Down syndrome. Enacted the Prenatal Education Act, known as “Chloe’s Law,” in Pennsylvania. Named after Kondrich’s daughter Chloe with Down syndrome, this law requires medical officials to provide accurate, up-to-date information to parents once they get a prenatal diagnosis of Down syndrome.
– Judy Adams, actress who has appeared on Disney Channel and The Jimmy Fallon Show. When she was 12 years old, she started Dimes For Downs, which collects dimes to help grant wishes to and meet needs of children and adults with Down syndrome.
… and many others, including members of the Community of the Franciscan Friars of the Renewal.
Learn more about the film here.
Photography by Romina Hendlin
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