Caira Family, Jordan's Jewels To Participate in 18th Annual Buddy Walk

On Sunday, Oct. 12, in the midst of National Down Syndrome Awareness Month, the Caira Family of Framingham will join 4,000 family members, friends and people with Down syndrome at Lake Quannapowitt in Wakefield to celebrate, promote acceptance and inclusion, and look to a bright future for the Down syndrome community in Massachusetts and beyond.

Now in its 18th year, the Massachusetts Down Syndrome Congress’ (MDSC) Buddy Walk & Family Festival, presented by VERIZON, is the largest gathering of people with Down syndrome and their loved ones in New England and among the largest in the nation.

This year is exceptionally special because not only is it the 18th Annual Buddy Walk, but Jordan Caira turned 18 as well in August. She wanted to walk with her friends from Framingham High School, so when she told them what she was doing, they jumped on board! “Jordan’s Jewels” has 38 team members.

MDSC is an incredible resource for families of children with Down Syndrome.

Jordan is learning to self-advocate as well as share this aspect of her life with her friends. It is a wonderful way to teach acceptance, tolerance and inclusion at its best.

Our theme for this year is “Champions,” based on the Boston Strong mentality of people coming together to overcome challenges and the positive sense of community pride that has developed as a result.

The family-friendly event features arts and crafts, balloon artists, magicians, and musicians, including Nashville-based Ayla Brown (American Idol Season 5 semi-finalist) and Flame, a New York-based band whose members all happen to have a disability.

The centerpiece of the day is the celebratory 3-mile walk around the picturesque lake that is expected to raise about $400,000 to directly support vital MDSC programs and services.

This includes Parents First Call, Advocates in Motion (AIM), Educator’s Forum, Annual Conference, and Legislative Advocacy efforts, all of which help the MDSC ensure individuals with Down syndrome are valued, included, and given opportunities to pursue fulfilling lives in the community.

This year, we welcome to our Buddy Walk stage singer Alex Preston, a top four finalist on American Idol Season 13 that wrapped up this spring. Today, Alex is just back from being on tour with other American Idols throughout the summer, including two shows locally, at the Blue Hills Bank Pavilion in Boston and as part of the 104.1 MixFest at the Hatch Shell.

The public is invited to join the festivities on Oct. 12 or to support The Caira Family by making a donation, registering to walk, or volunteering. Supporters can visit www.mdsc.org/buddywalk or call 781-221-0024 for more information.

Photo: Jordan Caira, 18, of Framingham. Credit: Courtesy