Teddy: A Particularly Special Person

Ted is a particularly special person. He can tell you anything you want to know about the Cincinnati Reds. He’s gracious. He’s loving. And it seems that he never has a bad day.

When his parents saw there was a chance for Teddy to get up close and personal with the team that he loved the most, his mom and dad did what any other loving parents would do: they bid. And they won.

And for a day, the 29 year-old Teddy was able to extend his love and personality to the Cincinnati Reds.

Reading stories and watching videos about the “Teddys” of society makes me recognize the blessing that Down Syndrome can bring. As an uncle of a beautiful baby girl with Down Syndrome my feelings have evolved as I’ve recognized the heroism and grace that can come with Down Syndrome. While initially betrayed by emotions, feelings of pity and sadness, it’s only through story that we are rescued. More today than ever, individuals with Down Syndrome are becoming equally capable members of society. Yet, it’s truly up to us to assure that these messages reach the masses. While printed in large newspapers and distributed online in video form, the onus is on you and me to assure that more “Teddys” become reality. We have the power to communicate and spread the stories that mean so much.

Therefore, it is my hope that you will read the linked article and watch the video. See Teddy overcome with excitement. Recognize that doctors foretold only doom and gloom for Teddy, and yet, Teddy overcame the odds and remains willing to give 100% each and every time. He’s a better man that I am. He’s a harder worker than I am.

Teddy is a particularly special person.

In hope,

Andrew S. Dungan, MA

Passing on Hope

I am in the business of “Passing on Hope.”

However, one can work on behalf of the greatest mission and easily lose track of why one is doing it all.

And then a story hits me. I meet with someone and their story pierces me. The organization that I have been working for has helped the individual in some way “Pass Hope” onto someone else.

It happens to me often. It is what keeps me going in the right direction.

Every day I feel myself growing as a non-profit developer. However, without the stories, without the motivation bequeathed to me by these mourning, resilient souls, I would not be on the path I am traveling now.

These grieving souls, that have chosen to “Pass on Hope” and strength to others in their time of loss, are extraordinary individuals. Knowing that hope is the answer, these grievers make a conscious effort to find healing through “Passing on Hope.”

Those that I have found to be the wisest know that grief can never be healed or fixed completely. These sages recognize that with loss life is forever changed. These don’t seek to be an answer or the one to fix the problem. Instead, most simply are willing to “be there” if you need them to be. It’s all so refreshing.

What these do is an art form: they “Pass on Hope.”

And they help me make sense of why I do what I do, as if God is whispering in my ear, “You see, there is a reason I have you doing this. You are passing on hope.”

And I am renewed.

It’s all so amazing!