For those who may not know, our son Macario—“Mac” to his family—was born with Trisomy 21 (Down syndrome) and is now 3 years old. Mac loves to play, listen to music, and eat (pancakes, bananas, and cookies are his favorites!). He enjoys tossing and catching balls, is a dedicated Eagles fan, and as the youngest of five, is learning to be as independent as possible. Mac loves walking with his family, swinging in the yard, and playing in the park. One of his new favorite things? Chasing his siblings and wrestling with his dad. Mac doesn’t like to see his siblings sad and always offers his hugs. His mom, Karen, says, “Macario is the perfect addition to our family, and we are so blessed to have him.”

Macario’s favorite thing at CHOP? Getting a book after his well visit.

Why We Walk

100% of funds from the CHOP Buddy Walk® & Family Fun Day support healthier futures for patients of Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia’s Trisomy 21 Program and help improve the lives of individuals with Down syndrome. Your support means more research, better care, and a brighter future for kids like Macario.

Event Details

When:
Sunday, Oct. 19, 2025
9:30 a.m. – Registration begins
10:30 a.m. – Event Program
11:30 a.m. – Ceremonial lap begins
1 p.m. – Event concludes

Where:
Lincoln Financial Field
1 Lincoln Financial Field Way
Philadelphia, PA 19148
Get directions

Parking:
Lincoln Financial Field is accessible by private vehicle and public transportation. Free Parking will be in Lot K (North Entrance). Directions to get to Lot K and exit Lot K will be provided.

Registration

  • Register Now: Join or Donate to Team Mac & Cheese
  • Registration fee:
    • $21 for teens and adults (age 13+)
    • $10 for children aged 4-12
    • Free for those younger than 4
    • Pre-registration ends at noon the Friday before the event.
    • Event-day registration: $25 for adults, $15 for children aged 4-12

What to Expect

  • Moon bounces, character appearances, face painting, music, food, beverages and more!
  • A robust sweepstakes and silent auction!
  • A short program including our fundraising reveal, top teams, sponsor recognition and Trisomy 21 Program updates! (The deadline to be recognized as a top fundraising team is the Monday before event day.)

Team Mac & Cheese Merch – 100% for Buddy Walk!

Support Team Mac & Cheese and the CHOP Buddy Walk® by grabbing some awesome merch! 100% of sales profit goes directly to the Buddy Walk and the Trisomy 21 Program at CHOP. Show your support and look great doing it!

Shop the full collection here

Featured Items:

Every purchase helps make a difference for kids like Macario and families in the Down syndrome community. Thank you for your support!

Walk the Eagles Field!

One of the most unforgettable parts of the CHOP Buddy Walk® is the chance to actually walk out onto the field at Lincoln Financial Field—home of the Philadelphia Eagles! Whether you’re a lifelong fan or just love a once-in-a-lifetime experience, stepping onto the same turf as the pros is truly amazing. If you’ve never done this before, it’s something you’ll remember forever. Don’t miss your chance to make this incredible memory with your family and friends!

Whether you’re in Philly or far away, there’s a spot just for you! Put on your walking shoes, or simply click to support. For Macario, for every child, and for a future filled with understanding, love, and boundless possibilities.

See you there – in spirit or stride!

P.S. Don’t forget to share this with friends and family. The more, the merrier!