Who is Kaden?

Kaden popped into my life on August 24th, 2013 at around 2 in the morning. Nobody in my family knew that that was the exact moment our lives would change forever. Shortly after being born, Kaden was diagnosed with Down syndrome. It took another 7 years to get a diagnosis for autism, which affects his speech capabilities heavily. 

I don't like to think of my brother as his diagnoses, but as the absolute epitome of sunshine everyone who comes to meet him knows him as. He's been such a huge inspiration to me, especially in my membership and volunteer work at DSANV. 

DSANV, or the Down Syndrome Association of Northern Virginia, is an organization whose mission is to "[empower] individuals with Down syndrome and their families by providing essential resources, support, programs, and events that foster inclusion, enhance well-being, and promote meaningful participation in the community." 

The Buddy Walk event in particular is one I've been participating in since I was 11. I try to participate in some way every year either by walking, donating, or volunteering. It's a tradition that is very important to my family and I. 

My absolute favorite part is being able to meet and play with the other differently abled children. Much like Kaden, they're so full of joy. A lot of people won't ever take the time to figure that out, even though the effort can be something so small. I'm not making any crazy differences in the world, but knowing I can make a few kids feel included or happy is enough of a difference to me.