Last updated 2 years ago 
PLACER COUNTY, CA - Heather Haskin looks at the pictures with happiness and heartache. They remind her of how good things were a year ago, and how fortunes have turned since then.
"I've cried a lot," said Haskin. "And my heart has just been hurting. Just heavy."
Haskin is president of the National Down Syndrome Coalition. She is also the mother of 3-year-old Malachi, who has Down Syndrome. Two years ago, Haskin organized the first Buddy Walk in Placer County to raise money for Down Syndrome awareness and other related community events.
Last October, the walk raised $3,000. But this year, plans for the third annual Buddy Walk have hit a brick wall.
"We couldn't pull it together," Haskin said. "It was just a really hard time. I think it's a reflection of the current economy."
After weeks of phone calls and asking for donations, Haskin saw the writing on the wall: no one seems to be in a giving mood right now, not even for a Down Syndrome charity.
The Buddy Walk was canceled.
"It was probably one of the hardest things I've had to do," said Haskin, getting teary-eyed. "I'm so passionate about my families, I'm passionate about this organization, I'm passionate about raising awareness. I love each and every one of my families. I know them personally, I know their children. I know their situations."
But she also knows the money just is not there in 2008. She can only hope the economy turns kind in 2009.
Even though the fundraiser has been canceled, several families with Down Syndrome kids are still planning to gather this Saturday at Regional Park in Auburn. They'll have a walk and picnic in support of Down Syndrome awareness.
News10/KXTV
