Raising Awareness in Southeastern Massachusetts 

Join our newest Buddy Walk Program event, Buddy Walk by the Sea, to raise funds and awareness to promote the acceptance and inclusion of people with Down syndrome throughout southeastern Massachusetts, including the Cape and Islands. 

This morning celebration includes a light breakfast, pre-walk activities, a one-mile pledge walk, post-walk entertainment, networking opportunities with local disability organizations, and a chance to talk to three MDSC Self-Advocate Ambassadors listed below. All proceeds benefit vital programs and services the MDSC offers including Parents First Call, Advocates in Motion (AIM), Teacher Partnership Network, Educators Forum, Annual Conference, and Legislative Advocacy.

Meet Our Self-Advocate Ambassadors

Carey Daly, Centerville

Carey Daly, 20, was the first person with Down syndrome to run the Falmouth Road Race, a seven mile journey from Woods Hole to Falmouth Heights. He was awarded the 2009 Michael Denmark Award, which goes to a single runner who accomplishes a significant achievement in the face of extraordinary personal challenges. Carey will once again be lacing up his sneakers for his fifth Falmouth Road Race for Team MDSC a couple weeks before the Buddy Walk by the Sea. When the running shoes are off, he speaks to other groups participating in Race for MDSC events and shows his support in the cheering section with his mom, Colleen.

Connor Gifford, Nantucket
Connor Gifford, 26, is well known for America According to Connor Gifford, a history book he wrote with Victoria Harris that was released in June 2008. Connor is originally from Perrysburg, Ohio, where he graduated high school in 2002. His parents pushed for him to be included in the classroom and his love for history started in the eigth grade. He now works on Nantucket and volunteers for many organizations. “Through history we know that every character is different,” says Connor. “As for my having Down syndrome, it means that I have a gift.”

Tracey Newhart, Falmouth
Tracey Newhart, 28, is currently getting ready for Buddy Walk by the Sea with walks around her East Falmouth neighborhood. In addition to Down syndrome, Tracey has Grave’s disease, which causes extreme fatigue. “The doctor said the one mile will feel like ten to her,” says Tracey’s mother, Pat. “It will be her first Buddy Walk without a wheelchair.”

After Tracey gaining attention for a dispute regarding her MCAS scores years ago, she has gone on to open her very own catering business, called Tracey’s Kitchen, which she now operates out of her home. She makes cakes, cookies and other baked goods for special occasions, including weddings and birthday parties, and has prepared food for Down syndrome awareness conferences as far away as Arkansas.

How You Can Help  

• Walk With Us
• Start Your Own Team
• Become a Buddy Walk "All Star"
• Support a Walker
• Sponsor the Event
• Run a Buddy Bucks Campaign
• Organize a School Fundraiser 

REGISTRATION FOR THE 2012 BUDDY WALK BY THE SEA IS NOT YET OPEN. If you have questions about our Buddy Walk By the Sea, email us at bwbythesea@mdsc.org.