No Limits Cafe Run and Down Syndrome Awareness

I will be running in the 2nd annual Run with No Limits 5k/Half Marathon on October 15th. The two groups I am fundraising for are significant to my family and me. Much more important than the fact that I despise running.

Who I am raising money for---

No Limits Cafe in Red Bank, NJ. "We are a lunch cafe with a major difference. No Limits Cafe, a 501(c)(3) charitable organization, will train and employ adults with Intellectual Disabilities. It is our belief that EVERYONE has the ability to be a contributing member of society. Our employees will have a sense of pride and purpose, while serving our customers great food. No Limits Cafe will be an inclusive win-win for our community!"

https://www.nolimitscafe.org/

AND

I will be replenishing "Congratulations Project" books that we donate to hospitals and individuals that deserve to hear how exciting it is to be expecting a baby with down syndrome. We received one as a gift before Kane was born, and it is one of my most treasured items. The book contains hand-written letters from individuals with down syndrome offering congratulations on your new baby. In addition, it allows us to give a hug in the form of supportive words to families new to a before or after birth diagnosis. We have provided books to hospitals and families for a couple of years. And are excited to continue to do so.

https://www.congratulationsproject.org/about

Why these are important organizations to me---

My youngest of four sons, Kane, has down syndrome. We knew a down syndrome diagnosis was a good possibility before he was even born. An extra chromosome does not scare me. I was fearful of how Kane would be judged and how he would be accepted into the world and society. Places like No Limits Cafe give adults with intellectual disabilities the confidence and tools to live a full and happy life. They prepare employees to advance and move on to other jobs.

PALS and the "Congratulations Project" are important because a baby with down syndrome is a baby and a blessing. There is nothing to be sorry about. But unfortunately, that is what most people say.

Kane is three years old and going to preschool this September. He is so fantastic and everything I never knew we all needed. He completed our family and has brought nothing but love and joy to our lives. His facebook page is Keeping UP with Kane. Please contact me if you or anyone you know would like a book or someone to talk to. Thank you so much for reading! Be well and enjoy!