Daytona State Walks To Support Fun Coast Down Syndrome Association

On October 11th, the Lady Falcon Volleyball team participated in the 20th annual Buddy Walk in Flagler/Palm Coast. 

By participating in the Buddy Walk the Lady Falcons helped raise funds to provide services and support to the families in Flagler and Volusia County that have been impacted by Down syndrome.  The Fun Coast Down Syndrome Association advocates for those impacted by Down syndrome, primarily focusing on educating the kids and community, as well as, providing necessary tools to the schools to better service those afflicted.

This mission is particularly near and dear to the Lady Falcons.  Teammate, Kiara Colson, knows all too well the challenges, as well as, the blessings of Down syndrome.  Colson’s younger sister, Valen, provides daily inspiration to Colson to work hard and appreciate the talents that she has been blessed with. At just 12 years old Valen’s smile lights up the room and her joy for life motivates Colson and others to be their best.

Valen has also inspired the Lady Falcons and moved them to participate in this year’s walk.  Together, the Daytona State Volleyball team walked alongside Valen and other men, women, and children of Flagler and Volusia County to increase awareness and unite for an amazing cause that inflicts 1 in 733 births in the United States.  This chromosomal rearrangement that produces an extra chromosome is the leading cause of cognitive delay in the world. 

Through the volleyball team’s participation in the walk, the ladies expanded their awareness and appreciation for the challenges that face Colson, her sister, and the many families that are impacted by Down syndrome.