DS Action and A Ride of Inspiration

This is Chopper the Biker Dog. We met him along with a handful of other celebrities this past weekend at "A Ride of Inspiration". This is the annual charity motorcycle ride and poker walk event put on by DS Action.

DS Action is dedicated to improving the quality of life of all people with Down Syndrome. When I was pregnant with my son, his 20 week ultrasound indicated a soft marker for Down Syndrome. This meant that there was a small chance that he would be born with it. I spent the next two weeks alone, crying, praying, reading and researching. And then I felt peace - if this was how he was meant to be, then I was ready to accept that and be happy with my child. Bean does not have Down Syndrome, but the experience changed me forever. I have become more aware of and open to these beautiful people. Recently, I was prompted to research organizations in San Diego that I could get involved with, and that's how I learned of DS Action and this event.

The event was a blast! It was exciting to see the motorcycles take off. Even Elmo participated in the action!


There were performances put on by various local groups. Jr. Crew was an entertaining, high energy and impressive display of percussion movement. Then we saw a performance by Arms Wide Open, a special needs dance and movement group. Here at Mama Sparkles I'm always looking for things that make my heart sparkle - these performers did that and more. I was in tears. All I could do was hold on tight to my hubby while they sang and danced. They looked so happy to be performing and I could tell that their joy came straight from their hearts. They are an inspiration to us all.


There was also a kids zone, raffle, various vendors and food. I had the pleasure of chatting a bit with Sharla Hank, president of DS Action and an amazing and warm hearted person. If you are interested in learning more about DS Action and helping to raise awareness for Down Syndrome, please check out their website!