Lampasas youth walks to support Down Syndrome

Justin McDonald, left, and his best friend, Micah Reeves, participated in the annual Buddy Walk in Arlington in memory of his best friend's younger sister.

In memory of his best friend's younger sister, Anastasia "Anna Banana" Reeves, a Down Syndrome child, Lampasas resident Justin McDonald participated in the seventh annual Buddy Walk in Arlington Oct. 27.

The Down Syndrome Partnership of Tarrant County, National Down Syndrome Society, in conjunction with Green Oaks School of Arlington, meet yearly to raise funds for the organizations.

Purpose of DSPTC and NDSS is to offer support to those with Down Syndrome and their families.

NDSS works through education, research and advocacy to ensure that those with Down Syndrome have the opportunity to achieve their full potential.

Green Oaks is a Christian-based school for individuals with Down Syndrome and similar development delays, ages elementary school through young adult.

An estimated 700 participants gathered at SJ Stovall Park to walk for their buddies.

Several exhibits included food, face painting, games, a disk jockey and more.

Justin's team was sponsored by Anna's friend, Chrystal, and included Anna's brother, Micah, and her parents, Carolyn and Stephen Reeves.

Gifts to the school may be sent to 5508 Chaperito Trail, Arlington, TX 76016.

For information, visit www.GreenoaksSchool.org.