An event to benefit the Mile High Down Syndrome Association that features Phil Heath, one of Denver’s best-liked professional bodybuilders and a favorite to win the next Mr. Olympia title, is scheduled for Saturday, August 15 at Max Muscle Sports Nutrition in Denver.Store owner Billy Van Heusen became intimately acquainted with the MHDSA after his five-month-old daughter, Mila, was born with the genetic disorder. Ten percent of the day’s total sales will be contributed to the MHDSA.
Heath, nicknamed “The Gift” by adoring fans, is scheduled to sign autographs at the store from noon to 4 p.m. He is donating all proceeds from that day’s sales of his photographs and posters to the MHDSA.
More after the jump.
“Being part of this event is going to be an amazing experience because it’s creating more awareness about children with Down Syndrome,” Heath says. “I want to show people that I’m more than willing to participate in great causes, especially because I live here and, hopefully, can motivate others to get out and do something for others in their community.”
The day also includes a drawing for a 52-inch television, free samples and storewide product discounts.
Max Muscle Sports Nutrition is located at 1550 S. Colorado Blvd, 80222.
Mila’s Story
The story of little Mila Van Heusen is a poignant one, and illustrative that a child with Down syndrome “raised with love is like any other baby,” Van Heusen says.
The day Billy and Ali, his wife, brought Mila home, an unexpected “welcome” package from the MHDSA was waiting for them. Inside were informational books about Down Syndrome and a new dress for Mila.
“Two days later Mac Macsovits {who heads the MHDSA} called and said he’d introduce us to other Down Syndrome parents. MHDSA’s understanding and outreach to us have been phenomenal,” Van Heusen says.
That’s why Van Heusen believes it’s so important to raise awareness about the MHDSA and its critical mission.
“I want other parents to understand that children with Down Syndrome can go to school, hold jobs, drive cars just like other kids,” Van Heusen says. “Children born with down syndrome used to be institutionalized and forgotten, and many died young. The public needs to know all that’s changed, that there’s absolutely no reason to say ‘sorry’ when parents tell you their child has Down syndrome. For us, Mila is a blessing”
Mile High Down Syndrome Association
The Mile High Down Syndrome Association, Inc. is a non-profit organization that has been serving families of children and adults with Down syndrome, and interested professionals in the Mountain States region, since 1981.
Van Heusen says the best advice he’s received comes from the organization.
“Mac Macovits told me not to worry about the future, to take it day by day and appreciate Mila for exactly who she is this very moment,” Van Heusen says.
Macsovits, whose little boy has Down syndrome, says that once the Van Heusen family worked through the shock of Mila’s condition, they became determined to “find solutions to their challenges and chart a path of success for their daughter.”
“To say that the Van Heusens are supporters of MHDSA would be a great understatement. To take ten percent of their proceeds and donate them during these difficult economic times, is remarkable,” Macsovits says.
One in 733 babies is born with Down syndrome, according to Macovits. About 40 percent of them suffer significant heart issues, and many also show gastric disorders and below-normal muscle tone.
Although Mila Van Heusen’s growth chart is right where it should be, her father can’t help but comment on the appropriateness of the massive 280-pound Phil Heath getting involved with Down syndrome children.
“When they see him, they’re inspired,” Billy Van Heusen says. “Especially Phil, who’s so personable, so playful, it’s truly like this giant man is giving them ‘the gift’ of love.”
