Normally aroundthis time of year, the Burnaby-based Down Syndrome Resource Foundation hosts Run Up for Down Syndrome at Swangard Stadium, drawing over 1,000 participants to its largest annual event.
As it has for so many other events, COVID-19 dashed DSRF’s plans to make this year’s Run its biggest ever in celebration of the organization’s 25th anniversary year. Nevertheless, the pandemic could not deter DSRF’s supporters from finding creative ways to celebrate their loved ones with Down syndrome.
Run Up was reimagined as Run Apart for Down Syndrome, a COVID-proof virtual event that saw over 760 people across the Lower Mainland run through their local streets and parks to raise money and awareness.
DSRF alumnus Scott Fattedad is well-known to locals from his job at Thrifty Foods, and he and his family marched through their neighbourhood with huge signs proudly proclaiming them members of “Scott’s Squad.”
“It’s such an important fundraiser for the Down Syndrome Resource Foundation,” said Scott’s mom Mary Lynn Cassels. “It was disappointing not to be able to get together with everybody, see old friends and do this together, but we still felt it was important to support them by running apart.”
While the virtual event didn’t quite rise to the level of the two previous years, each of which saw the run raise over $200,000, this year’s $153,000 total was the third highest in the 24-year history of the event – demonstrating just how important DSRF’s services continue to be to the local Down syndrome community.
“When COVID-19 struck, our dedicated staff quickly reimagined every aspect of our programs and services,” said CEO Wayne Leslie. “By early April we were pioneering online classes and teletherapy services. There was a learning curve to be sure, but these services have proven to be a lifeline for many families. One family even shared that DSRF is more important in the life of their child than school.
“Every person who Ran Apart for Down Syndrome has played a critical role in our ability to continue caring for families through the COVID-19 lockdown and ensuring that we come back strong in the months to come.”
Run Apart for Down Syndrome was generously supported by lead ponsor Euro-Rite Cabinets, along with a host of local businesses.
To learn more about the Down Syndrome Resource Foundation, please visit http://DSRF.org or follow @DSRFCanada on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn.
