Anna’s Angels is a wonderful organization supporting Downs Syndrome Research. I have been shooting this event for several years now. I have been personally moved each year mostly by the amazing people, love and support this group shows. But this year I think was the best year but perhaps year after year I just get more attached to the people and the special children they help. This organization founded by Michelle whose daughter Anna has Down’s Syndrome is such an amazing person, not only for her strenth and perseverence but also for her smile and charming personality. And I would be remiss if I didn’t include her amazing friends. They have supported her in her cause by rasing money, helping to gain sponsor and donations for the gala all with the goal of hitting a landmark of raising 1 million dollars for Downs Sysndrome Reseach. One couple who I feel compelled to make special mention is Kelly and Yom. Good friends to Michelle that you can see after years of photographing this event feel as strongly about the mission as Michelle herself. Each year they fly in for the Gala, have fun and share a glass of wine or two. But not only do they come to support Michelle but they usually end up bidding on one or two auction items but to my utter amazement they have matched the donations raised during the auction for the last two years in a row. What amazing people and I couldn’t write this without mentioning them.
This year’s event included several fabulous guests. David Friedman Broadway composer, Karen Mason Broadway singer, and Leah Stodden Today Show winner and young adult with Down syndrome. In this segment famous song writer David Friedman creates a special song for the person featured. Well Leah was one of their special features. And as luck would have it this wonderful man took time out of his busy schedule to join the gala. He, Leah and Karen sang the song they created for Leah. Both David and Leah played the piano while Karen belted out a true broadway voice to the tune of Impossible dream.
When Steve Daniels who also is there every year without fail to help MC the event asked Leah’s mother about her experiences, she described exactly what the song embodies. When faced with the impossible, they just turned it around, persevered and overcame the impossible. To all the angels there tonight I commend you and thank you again for letting me be a part of such an amazing organization. You are truly an inspiration.
