The 8-month-old twins slept peacefully while their mother and father participated in the second annual Miracle Walk on Sunday.

One twin, Dakota, was born with Down syndrome while his brother, Damian, was not.

Their mother, Dawn Llaneras, describes the joys and hardships in raising a child with Down syndrome and explains why the Miracle Walk, put on by the Down Syndrome Association of Miami, is fundamental in raising awareness.

''Dakota is lovable, caring, giving and always has a smile on his face,'' Llaneras said, ``but there's always concern about how high functioning he will be, if he'll be independent and if he'll be able to support himself later in life.''

She describes the event as a worthwhile cause and said the public has been very giving.

''Having a child with special needs, we go to occupational therapy as well as speech and physical therapy,'' Llaneras said. ``He's somewhat behind his twin with things such as sitting up, but he's just like any other child.''

According to Llaneras, raising Dakota has been a learning experience, but she said it's nice to have the group and to be able to talk to other parents who have children with Down syndrome.

More than 2,500 people came out for the 1 ¼-mile walk that began at Ponce Circle Park on a hot and humid day.

The money raised ''will help parents with therapies, orientations, education and much more,'' said Nicolas Gutierrez Jr., board member of DSAOM. ``Children [with disabilities] should be assimilated with others and not isolated. This is a fun event where all kids and families can mingle together and have a good time.''

Last year, more than $130,000 was raised and went toward advocacy workshops for parents of children with Down syndrome, providing support of the National Down Syndrome Society, welcoming parents of new babies born with Down syndrome in Miami-Dade County with gift baskets, including books and other constructive information, various therapy gift certificates and hosting play dates.

Participant and mother of an 11-year-old child with Down syndrome, Ivette Aragon, said money is always needed for the disability and she's happy to be at the event with family friends.

''Raising my son has sometimes been a challenge but our family makes it work,'' Aragon said. ``What's so special is that you can teach them anything. These children don't have any limitations. They can learn anything.''

First-time walker Jeanette Delrey also came out Sunday with friends, family and her 9-year-old son, Aidan. He has Down syndrome and is described as ''an angel'' and ``comical.''

''He's a child that will talk to anyone,'' Delrey said. ``He just lights up the room.''

Delrey explained that the walk is important to raise awareness and for people to be more involved and accepting of all disabilities.

Board members of DSAOM spend months preparing for the event and hope to continue it each year.

''We want this to continue to get bigger and bigger each year,'' Gutierrez said. ``There are refreshments and drummers and music and everyone here just has a lot of fun.''

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