This event is inspired by, and in honor of, our son Joe. When Joe was born in August of 2003 we were shocked to learn he had Down syndrome. Even more devastating was finding out that he had a serious heart defect. The first few months were very difficult. Joe came home on oxygen after 5 days in the Good Samaritan Hospital Intensive Care Unit. He soon developed congestive heart failure as a result of the defect, which was managed with medicines while we worked hard to help him gain weight before the surgery. At 5 and ½ months of age he had open heart surgery to repair his heart. Joe's recovery from this major surgery amazed us and he hasn't stopped amazing us since then. Joe is a happy, healthy 4 and ½ year old who walks, runs, talks, uses sign language, attends pre-school, and enjoys being a big brother to his two younger sisters.

In all of this, the Down Syndrome Association of Greater Cincinnati (DSAGC) has been a great support to us. Within hours of Joe's birth they provided informational packets to us, our family and friends. We attend monthly meetings with guest speakers on a variety of topics for parents of children with Down syndrome. We have borrowed dozens of books, audio tapes, and DVDs from their free lending library on a wide range of topics from heart defects, to sign language, to financial planning. We have benefited so much from the friendships, support and education that are all a result of this great organization.

We wanted to develop a unique event that was based on Tom's experience in Triathlon and would enable those that Joe has touched in his life to come out and compete, see Joe and reflect on what he has experienced. This is a family friendly event that will appeal to the seasoned multisport athlete as well as rookies who are looking for a new challenge.

This is why we Tri for Joe. We look forward to seeing you on May 18, 2008 at Coney Island.

Sincerely,
The Gerstle Family
Tom, Jennifer, Joe, Anna and Lydia