Kathleen Seitz

Kathleen Seitz's Fundraiser

Make a difference for families of children with Down syndrome! image

Make a difference for families of children with Down syndrome!

Help DSDN continue to provide a thriving network of support, connection and information our community!

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$2,837 towards $7,500

When our son Henry was born in 2018, our world changed in ways we couldn’t have imagined. We learned early in my pregnancy that he would be born with Down syndrome and an AVSD heart defect. The news was overwhelming, and while we were grieving the path we thought we were on, DSDN stepped into our lives. Through their network, we found connection, comfort, and the promise of a new and beautiful journey.

That first year, I attended a DSDN mom’s retreat in Phoenix and met women who would become lifelong friends—many of whom had walked beside me through Henry’s early days and long NICU stay filled with uncertainty and hope. DSDN gave us more than support; it gave us family.

Since then, I’ve had the privilege to give back to this incredible organization as both a board member and, since 2022, as President of the Board, partnering with our Executive Director, Melissa Shutwell, to support families like ours. Together, our family has raised or donated nearly $35,000 to DSDN since 2018.

As my board service comes to a close this December, I want to honor the impact DSDN has made on our lives by raising at least another $7,500. I invite you to join me in celebrating Henry, our family, and the community that continues to lift so many others up.

Your donation—of any size—helps DSDN continue vital work connecting and empowering families through:

  • Our secure DSDN App, offering free peer support to thousands of parents
  • The Rockin’ Family Fund, providing Pregnancy and Welcome Gifts, Memorials, Care Gift Cards, Scholarships, Adoption Grants, and local outreach
  • Parent retreats where moms and dads can connect, recharge, and find inspiration
  • Training for medical professionals to improve how a Down syndrome diagnosis is delivered
  • Free printed resources for new families and providers across the country

DSDN is a small but mighty nonprofit—just two paid staff members, more than 150 volunteers, and a mission that reaches thousands of families every year.

Join me in keeping that promise alive for families just beginning their journey.

Thank you!