A little Support and lot’s of Love

It’s almost October, and for those who don’t know, it will soon be Down Syndrome Awareness month.  I’m pretty sure I don’t need to explain why it’s so important to me.  I just hope that you, my readers…friends, think it’s just as important. 

Last year, the family participated in the Down Syndrome Information Alliance Step Up for Down Syndrome Walk, and it was a blast!  It was emotional. It made me happy. 

I often say how much I loved living in Hawaii, because I was surrounded by people who looked like me.  It was the first time in my life that I was around a large group of people who didn’t question or ask about my “ethnic” background, because a lot of us are Hapa people!

But this walk, it was special.  Because it brought together a large group of people that I rarely get to see.  Eyes that were somewhat similar, but different than Lillian’s. I was surrounded by families who knew my personal struggles, pure joy and happiness.  We were surrounded by people who didn’t question, look or stare.  She was surrounded by her peers who have or will go through similar life experiences.

It was a day we all were able to show our support and share to the world our unconditional love.

So, I’ll leave it at that..no pressure or guilt.  If you want to help donate in Lillian’s Honor, I would be forever grateful.  If you can’t, but are willing to share  your support and love for Lillian by leaving a comment,  I will still be forever grateful. 

Stepping up for Lillian’s Lilypad’s 

for the October 17, Step up for Down Syndrome Awareness Walk

 

 

(All photos taken by MRS Photography)

Hapa what?

Hapa is just another term used to describe someone of a mixed race. Like me, who is half Korean and half Black. It is mostly used in Hawaii, where Hapa is an Hawaiian word meaning half or portion of. However, it is becoming more mainstream and being used all over the States.

So, that is why I happily use the word hapa.

I first learned this word when I was living in Hawaii and a local explained it to me after I told them what I was made of :) BTW...Hawaii is filled with Hapa people, which is why I consider it one of my favorite places to live. For the first time in my life, I was surrounded by people who looked like me!