Hello, my name is Thomas Walter Snodgrass. I am 16 years old and a sophomore in high school. Everyone calls me “Walt.” That is appropriate because I love going to Walt Disney World. I am actually named after my grandfather, Thomas Snodgrass, and my great-grandfather, Walter Westendorf. Both grandpas enjoyed happy times with their families – just as I do. I especially love my mom and dad and share a special bond with my “little” sister, Lily (who is 5’11” and 15 years old).
My life is quite active. Besides my family travels, which include Australia, New Zealand, Mexico, Florida, and Hawaii, I love to be at Lake Okoboji in Iowa. I love to go boating, swimming, tubing, and riding on the Sea-Doo. I call this my “fun place.” At school, I play the percussions in band, cheerlead as a “Sparkler” at basketball and football games, run track, and bowl (I lettered this year). On the weekends, I enjoy going with my dad to Starbucks (Chocolate Frappuccino is my fav!) and working out at the gym. I also love to listen to all kinds of music and one day I might even be a DJ. I am very fortunate to have two grandmas, whom I love to spend time with and FaceTime each day.
I am proud to be the 2020 Global Down Syndrome Foundation Ambassador. I know the GLOBAL Family is making huge strides to reduce the many health complications that can be associated with Down Syndrome and individuals who are differently-abled. I am honored to participate in the research studies at the Linda Crnic Institute for Down Syndrome that are helping cure alopecia areata and other autoimmune disorders in people with Down syndrome. My family and I will appreciate any support you can give to this amazing organization that is breaking barriers in medical advancement.
Because I love to hug all my friends, I wish to extend a virtual hug to everyone!
Walt