Angelman Walk "Cruisn' for Clint and Cole"

Saturday, we headed to South Jordan and participated in a walk for our two cute two year old nephews, Clint and Cole. They both have Angelman Syndrome. This syndrome is caused by the absence of certain genes on a certain chromosomes. One in 15,000 children end up having it. For Clint and Cole, it means they will likely never speak more than a few words, they have seizures really often, they have difficulty eating and swallowing, and will seem floppy and jerky in their movements. They are learning to walk, although some children do not. They love water. And.....it is often called the Puppet Syndrome because they are so happy and laughing and smiling all the time.

Nate and Christy (parents) have their hands FULL! with two of them, but you wouldn't think so by looking at them. They are amazingly patient and loving. Clint and Cole were chosen to come to them for a reason- I KNOW IT!. We all love these little guys, it is hard not to. I am grateful that we were able to support them.

The day was full of fun things for the kids. They got their face painted, played with large bubbles, played with cousins, won prizes, and helped support their cousins in the walk.

Avery and Ada were in heaven being able to walk Naomi's dog during the walk. They wish they could have a dog so bad. We are not a dog kinda family though.

The highlight of the walk was when Nate ran to the van as they came close to the finish line. They wanted the twins walkers. They can't walk yet, but they are working on it. I was all choked up and tears were falling as I watched Nate and Christy struggle to kept them focused and moving with their walkers. Clint and Cole laughed all the time, they were smiling from ear to ear. As their legs wouldn't cooperate, Nate and Christy would pick them back up and get them moving again. The crowd stood and watched, yelled and cheered for the boys. I couldn't help but tear up. As they crossed the finish line with both parents helping them along and big brother Wyatt smiling down on them with encouragement, I was touched and proud to be their Aunt. They are truely ANGELS with a long road ahead of them, but they are not alone. They have the best family to help them and we all LOVE them dearly and would do anything as well for them.

I am grateful for my MANY, MANY blessings and hope that I will take nothing for granted, for I have much to be thankful for.