Brody Majka Savicki was born on October 2, 2008, and what should have been the most joyous day for us, turned out to be one filled with fear and tears of sadness and disappointment. Due to our lack of education and lack of awareness regarding Down syndrome. We were worried about the years to come for Brody and his acceptance in this world, as well as for ourselves, now being faced with raising a child with special needs. We were scared of the unknown. Not only did we not know that people with Down syndrome have an increased risk for certain medical conditions such as congenital heart defects, respiratory and hearing problems, Alzheimer's disease, childhood leukemia, and thyroid conditions, but in turn, we were also unaware that many of these conditions are now treatable, so most people with Down syndrome can lead healthy, fulfilling lives. This proved true to us, as Brody underwent open heart surgery at 5 1/2 months old to correct his own heart defect, and has recovered amazingly! Following his birth, once the shock of this news became a reality, we fell completely and totally in love with our special gift, Brody, and we feel so blessed and honored that we were chosen to be his parents!! However, had we been more educated and aware of Down syndrome, our initial fears may have been nonexistent, and our special day may have turned out much differently.

We have established this bike ride to raise funds for the Brody Savicki Foundation, in turn raising awareness for Down syndrome. Our hope is to educate people on the UP side of DOWN, and to help people realize how normal people with Down syndrome truly are. When couples are given the news that their newborn baby has Down syndrome, we hope that they will experience all the joy and tears of happiness that should come with welcoming your new child into your world.

Our work in only possible with the assistance of generous donations from members of the community. Without donations from supporters such as yourself, the people and organizations who benefited from Brody’s BUDDY™ Ride last year would have been left to face their challenges with Down syndrome all alone. A few of our accomplishments over the past years include: • $13,000 donation to the National Down syndrome Society • $1500 donation to the Mohawk Valley Down syndrome Support Group • $500 donation to the Oneida County ARC for a new playground • $2500 donated to activities for people for Down syndrome • $1500 donated to local families for care of their children undergoing medical treatment(s)

The purpose of the Brody Savicki Foundation’s is to continue to educate and raise community awareness about Down syndrome, to assist families financially in regards to medical needs of individuals with Down syndrome, and to provide activities, scholarships and other events for individuals with Down syndrome. We believe that every individual with Down syndrome should be able to chase and achieve their dreams, and our goal is to be able to assist in any way possible. Down syndrome is a disability: a disability that does not define one, and one that does not stand in one’s way.