Starry Night 2013

Starry Night 2013 was held Friday, April 19th, at the Townsend Hotel in Birmingham.

Abby Loy of Brighton spoke candidly and with joy and sparkle about her life with Down syndrome. Among her many accomplishments, Abby briefly mentioned donating hair to Locks of Love-giving to others. She is a full participant in life!

Allie Hayes of Troy created two paintings for the event. She, too, wants to help others so put extra work into making this artwork special.

Driver Chris Capaldi is supporting Band of Angels and kids with Down Syndrome as he travels the country racing for Wolverine Bronze in the Pirelli World Challenge. The Band of Angels logo is on the car! Watch on NBC Sports Network.

One of our supporters outbid our guest speaker on American Idol tickets and then...gifted them to Abby who is heading to LA tomorrow. Another long term supporter quietly bid on every silent auction item that needed a boost and got a few treats! Yet another asked to be informed of any shortfall in our quest to get an app in the hands of new parents and offered to make up the difference. Three small business owners want meetings to determine how to fit someone with Down syndrome or other disabilities into their workplaces. Wow.

Chairwoman Deb O'Neill put in more hours than she or I care to count. Matt Gibb brought fresh energy and new friends to the organization.

This kind of night will resonate with people for years to come. Those in the room were all touched in some way. New parents not yet identified will find comfort just minutes after diagnosis because we will be able to reach them wherever they are. This is no small feat. Life with Down syndrome and other disabilities is getting more fulfilled each year.

Thank you for the confidence you place in Band of Angels to be the conduit to continue to help those with Down syndrome and other disabilities to live full and meaningful lives. Or as Lewis Carroll said, "Begin at the beginning...and go on till you come to the end."

Warmly,

Cynthia Hutchison