2009 CUT! Film Festival Donation Beneficiary...
DSALA : Down Syndrome Association of Los Angeles
The DSALA is an organization that enhances the welfare
of people with Down syndrome and their families through the development and
promotion of education, counseling, employment and recreational programs. The
organization also works to increase public awareness, understanding and
acceptance of Down syndrome
Why DSALA?
Just as we have done with previous events, the organization that is chosen
as the recipient of donations and funds collected at our events, is usually one
that is close to our own hearts for a number of reasons. Shriner's Hospital,
because of the wonderful care and service they provided for Linda's son David
during his numerous surgeries and procedures. KKC, was a chosen as a way to give
back something to children suffering from the struggles with cancer, in honor of
those we have loved and lost to this ugly disease. Now this year, DSALA was
chosen, for this guy...
Meet my brother...Herbie!
Herbert Lee, was born on March 4th, 1980. To say Herbie was a bit of a
surprise to everyone, is putting it mildly. Our mother, Margaret had chosen to
have her tubes tied after the birth of my youngest sister. Two and a half years
later she received the astounding news that she was expecting again. Amidst the
surprise and worry about the pregnancy, there was also hope for, especially for
my father, of the always hoped for son. (With three daughters, I guess he needed
an ally of the male persuasion in his court) Around 7 months, the doctors
confirmed that dads wish was finally a reality and that in a short time he would
have a son.
When the day finally arrived, joy turned to fear when complications began to
arise shortly before delivery. The umbilical cord had become tangled around his
neck making it impossible to breath. Once he was safely delivered he was rushed
away, so the doctors could get him breathing again. In the anxious days that
followed, a number of smaller complications set in that had the doctors stumped.
Then came the news that all was clear, but there was something our parents
needed to know. Herbie had Down Syndrome and the outlook for his life was grim
indeed. According to this doctor, Herbie would never walk, talk, be potty
trained etc.
Well Herbie proved that guy wrong!
With the help of organization in the area, like the DSALA my brother
flourished and in 1999 Herbie graduated high school. Today, he gets up everyday
and goes to work, spends time volunteering and participating at the local
American Legion and provides a light in the lives of everyone he meets.
Although, the setbacks have been many, including the loss of our mother in 2006
to cancer, Herbie thrives and can hardly be seen without a smile on his face.
So for him and all the wonderful little angels on earth like him, we will
lend our support to the DSALA through the 2009 CUT! Film Festival. We hope you
will join us!
Teresa S.