An ensemble of students led by Cellist Karla Holland-Moritz of the San Diego Symphony presented a special Christmas musical performance that captivated the kids with Down syndrome as well as spectators of all ages. In addition, a guest ballerina from the San Diego Civic Youth Ballet gave a one of a kind and riveting performance of the Sugar Plum Dance from the Nutcracker. Kids with Down syndrome are very visual and immediately started to enthusiastically join in!
An ensemble of students led by Cellist Karla Holland-Moritz of the San Diego Symphony presented a special Christmas musical performance that captivated the kids with Down syndrome as well as spectators of all ages. In addition, a guest ballerina from the San Diego Civic Youth Ballet gave a one of a kind and riveting performance of the Sugar Plum Dance from the Nutcracker. Kids with Down syndrome are very visual and immediately started to enthusiastically join in!
Moreover, guests were treated to a free hayride, a silent auction, as well as free and delicious food and drinks courtesy of Papa Johns and Costco Santee.
To show their support for the cause of the event, the California Highway Patrol (CHP), the local Fire Department, and other organizations also joined in the activities.
Admission to the event was free for families with a child with Down syndrome. Others had to pay $20 for a ticket. San Diego Down Syndrome raised funds for the event by soliciting book, CD and DVD donations. See their site at www.sandiegodownsyndrome.org or to donate books at www.donatebookssandiego.com.
San Diego Down Syndrome promises never to charge a family with an individual with Down syndrome for any of their events. John Leslie, the founder, has two kids with Down Syndrome and a wife with multiple sclerosis so has a unique understanding of the enormous challenges these families face. He hopes SDDS will be a tool to educate, stimulate and encourage the families with these special treasures!
