More than 1,500 people converged upon Forsyth Park in Savannah last Saturday to take part in the First Annual Buddy Walk, organized by the Lowcountry Down Syndrome Society. The walk was held to raise money for the organization so they could provide assistance for family members with the genetic disorder and to promote awareness throughout the community.

Tables with educational materials were set up for those interested in learning more about Down Syndrome, with representatives on hand to answer questions. Children fun stations, such Princess for a Day, pumpkin and face painting, Pirates Pass, and inflatable slides were set up to keep the little ones busy. The Keith Gay Band entertained the crowd after the walk, as members of the Special Olympics Weightlifting Team flexed their muscles in front of the stage. And the characters from "The Wizard of Oz" even made a special appearance, taking photographs and giving out lots of hugs and kisses.

Candy Bogardus, co-founder of the LDSSGA and committee member of the Buddy Walk, says that the event was a huge success and that she couldn't be happier with the support of those who donated their time, money, and feet to the event.

"As far as the whole day goes, we were impressed by how much the community came out and supported us. We're still in the "can you believe it stage". It was leaps and bounds over what we had expected, in regards to the amount of people and amount of money raised."

Before the walk, 550 people had already pre-registered, so Candy knew the event was going to be big, but she said she was overwhelmed by the number of people who took part.

"We arrived around 6:30am and I stayed busy all morning working registration. The first time I turned around and saw the sea of faces and all those people lined up under that arch, I stood there speechless. I had tears in my eyes and was so amazed. I looked up and wondered where all these people came from. It's been a blessing to all. I'm still in shock."

Candy walked the one mile stretch around Forsyth Park with her family, including her two year old daughter Lainey, who has Down Syndrome. People of all ages and backgrounds, and families from as far as Cobbtown and Ludowici drove up for the event. Banners were carried and special shirts were worn by some teams to show their support.

In the end, the Buddy Walk generated over $60,000 in donations, which will fund the goals for 2007. Candy couldn't say enough about the support of those who helped put the event together and what an important part team work played in it's success.

"It was 100% a team effort. Each member had their own part, but every part together made it a success. Our group members really came together and made this happen."

She says that the group has already booked the park for next year's Buddy Walk, which will take place October 6, 2007. Pre-registration will take place closer to the event. And as always, we'll keep you informed on the event as it nears.

The Lowcountry Down Syndrome Society would like to thank all of their sponsors, the businesses and individuals who donated time, money, and support, all of the volunteers and group members, and most of all, the families and friends who gave 110% towards the Buddy Walk.

For more information, visit Lowcountry Down Syndrome Society at www.ldssga.org/.