Eastern PA Down Syndrome Center

http://www.epdsc.net/

A few weeks ago I had the opportunity to walk in my very first Buddy Walk.  This weekend I proudly wore the shirt from this walk, although I admit that I have worn this shirt often.  It was also this shirt that inspired my 50 shirts from 50 states campaign.  In today’s blog I will introduce you to the Eastern PA Down Syndrome Center (EPDSC) as well as sharing some personal thoughts about the people we have met from the center.

The EPDSC is located in Trexlertown, PA.  This Lehigh Valley based organization’s mission is to equip families and individuals with Down syndrome with the latest medical advancements, social, emotional and educational support in order to maximize each individual potential.  The Center’s medical tram is lead by Medical Director, Don Levick, M.D., MBA.  Dr Levick has been caring for children with Down syndrome and their families since 1982.  Dr Levick along with Dr Renee Marrow-Connelly, Dr Scott Rice and Occupational Therapist Anita Ellsberry provide comprehensive medical evaluations for individuals with Down syndrome.  This staff of physicians will provide both patient and primary care physicians expert recommendations regarding medical requirements and their therapeutic and development needs.

In addition to the medical evaluations, the EPDSC also serves as a community resource for families, service agencies, practitioners and to the general public.  Please contact the Eastern PA Down Syndrome Center at www.epdsc.net or (610) 402-0184.  If you have just received confirmation that your child has Down syndrome and would like to speak with someone, please contact their HOTLINE at (610) 432-3776.  This 501(c)3 non-profit organization with their medical services, advocacy resources, consultation services and social activities will continue to service Eastern PA and beyond for years to come. 

While navigating the web site, make sure to check out LOSE THE TRAINING WHEELS PROGRAM.  This 5 day camp was organized by EPDSC along with Dr Richard Klein, inventor of the bike used in this camp, was designed for Special Needs students to teach them to ride two wheel bikes.

Also check out the 2010 Holiday Party and if you will be in the Allentown, PA area on Saturday, December 11, 2010, stop in and visit with us.  All the details for this party, including date, time, place, cost and RSVP details are on line.  A special thanks to the Allentown Brew Works.  http://www.thebrewworks.com/.  Yes, Shane and Wyatt will be attending (health permitting) but more importantly, Santa will be there too. 

OK, now about the Lehigh Valley Buddy Walk.  What a great experience except next time I will wear sneakers instead of sandals.  The people we met are so special and really made us feel welcome.  My wife and I really enjoyed the interaction with the other parents and so many came over to us just to say HI.  We quickly realized that we are now part of a very special community.  I also want to say thanks to Karen Cimms and Bob Ford of the Times News who helped document our first walk.  Please check out the article; http://tnlife.wordpress.com/walking-a-mile-to-raise-millions/.   Yes, I am currently recruiting team members to walk with us next year so contact me if interested, LOL. 

In ending, Mary and I would like to say thank you to Bobby and Michele.  They were the first folks we met from the center shortly after our sons were born.  They made themselves available to us and often called to just say hi and to make sure we were OK.  This was a difficult time for us and thanks again for caring. 

Please feel free to contract me at ericwaxy@ptd.net

The next shirt that I will wear is from Mile High Down Syndrome Association.