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Buddy Walk marks 25 years of friendship, inclusion in South Mississippi

Buddy Walk marks 25 years of friendship, inclusion in South Mississippi This year, 39 teams made up of 500 people laced up their walking shoes and came together to celebrate individuals with Down syndrome. (wlox)
By Cody Heaster

GULFPORT, Miss. (WLOX) - The annual Gulf Coast Down Syndrome Society Buddy Walk marked 25 years of friendship, inclusion and community in South Mississippi.

This year, 39 teams made up of 500 people laced up their walking shoes and came together to celebrate individuals with Down syndrome.

One of the Grand Marshals, Madeline Moody, celebrates with the Biloxi High School cheer squad. (WLOX)

After 25 years of the walk, participants made one thing clear.

“People think it’s just a walk, but I try to explain to them that it is more than just a walk,” Vicky Rafferty said. “We celebrate anybody with special needs, and it’s just such a great day. The day is filled with so many different things. Since 2016, the day has surprised me every year.”

“We love it. We love seeing our Buddies shine and everybody show their love and promote inclusion and just spread awareness,” Gulf Coast Down Syndrome Society board member Morgan Wheeler said.

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Vicky Rafferty has walked since 2016, in honor of her son Micah.

Micah Rafferty, a seventh grader at Pass Christian Middle School, has been a part of the Buddy Walk since 2016. (WLOX)

“The anticipation - he lives up to it every day,” Rafferty said. “He just is like, ‘It’s Buddy Walk, it’s Buddy Walk!’ He knows how important this day is. He knows, importantly, that this day is about him and others with special needs that deserve it.”

Along with Micah comes Micah’s Militia, made up of his family and friends who continue to grow each year.

Along with Micah comes Micah’s Militia, made up of his family and friends who continue to grow each year. (WLOX)

“The people that we have that come and support Micah and how it grows every year is such a drive to us, that I just want us to keep coming and keep building, and help others to come and promote the word. Come out and celebrate with us,” Rafferty said.

Down syndrome brings unique strengths and talents, but embracing these differences is what shines a light on the joy and resilience of those with special needs.

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“We love it. We love seeing our Buddies shine and everybody show their love and promote inclusion and just spread awareness." (WLOX)

“Spend a day with anyone with Down syndrome. Everybody is different. Micah is different compared to this tent right here. Everybody is different, and I promise you, they will be the best person you will ever meet. They see the world completely different, and I couldn’t ask for Micah any other way,” Rafferty said.

Over $50,000 was raised during the walk.

To learn more about the Gulf Coast Down Syndrome Society, visit their website.

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