Meet Sandy

Sandy’s journey to grow her family was complicated and emotional.  After overcoming several challenges, she and her husband were excited and hopeful when they learned she was pregnant —until they received the news that their child would almost certainly have Down syndrome. They quickly transformed their initial disappointment into optimism and a search for knowledge. 

Seeing her 5-year-old daughter, Mara, thrive today, Sandy now considers herself one of the lucky ones. She has an active voice in the Down syndrome community— using her social media platform to share her experiences and empower other families who are navigating the journey of raising a child with IDD. The positive impact people like Sandy have on fellow parents and caregivers was the catalyst for Best Buddies’ new Eunie’s Buddies program, in which experienced caregivers are paired with new parents of children with IDD to provide support and suggest helpful resources.  

Eunie’s Buddies is more than just a peer group —it’s a community where families find encouragement, share experiences, and build a brighter future together. Help mentors like Sandy and the future families that need their support by donating today. Your contribution will create lasting connections where they are needed the most.