Team Hope Story - 2026 TCS New York City Marathon

I am raising funds for Hope Story Inc. in honor of my daughter, Luna, and in gratitude for the incredible support this organization provides to families navigating a Down syndrome diagnosis.

When I first learned that Luna had Down syndrome, I was overwhelmed with uncertainty. I didn’t know what her future would look like, what challenges I might face, or how my life would change. Like many parents receiving a diagnosis, I had questions, fears, and emotions that I was trying to process all at once.

Hope Story—and Rick in particular—became one of the very first sources of encouragement and guidance for me. They helped me see beyond the fear and into the beauty, hope, and joy that Luna would bring into this world. Through their support, I learned how to better advocate for her, celebrate her uniqueness, and embrace this journey with love, confidence, and hope.

Today, Luna is 9½ months old and absolutely thriving. She has brought immeasurable joy, love, strength, and inspiration to everyone who knows her. Looking back on the day of her diagnosis and looking ahead to her future, I can honestly say that I would not change a single thing about her—not even one chromosome. Luna is perfect exactly as she is, and she is deeply loved.

Hope Story continues to impact families around the world by providing resources, education, encouragement, and community for individuals with Down syndrome and their loved ones. Organizations like this remind families that they are never alone and that there is great hope for the future.

If you feel moved to support this mission, I would be deeply grateful for your donation. Every contribution helps Hope Story continue reaching families who may be facing fear and uncertainty, just as I once was, replacing fear with hope and helping them discover the incredible gifts their children bring into the world.

Thank you for supporting Luna, everyone who loves and supports her, and the countless families whose lives are being changed through Hope Story’s work.

With love and gratitude,

Jean-Christian, Luna, and our families

To learn more about Hope Story, please visit Hope Story⁠.

Please also follow Hope Story on Instagram and Facebook, and stay connected through their email updates.