The 22nd Annual Downs But Not Out Walk for People With Special Needs was held at Heritage Park in Belton on Sunday.

October is Down Syndrome Awareness month and hundreds of people honored it by walking three-quarters of a mile with loved ones.

They also enjoyed activities such as rock painting, motorcycle rides and a BBQ after the walk.

22 years ago Gwen Tanner started the walk for her daughter Aubriellen Tanner, also known as Breezy or Bri.

She was diagnosed with down syndrome at birth. Tanner said she made a promise to God at the hospital that she had to keep.

"I promised God that if he would lead us that we would do whatever it needed to be done to make sure that our daughter would have a beautiful life," Tanner said.

She founded the organization 'Downs But Not Out' and started the walk in conjunction with the National Down Syndrome Society in NYC.

As it progressed and more people joined the group realized they needed to bring those with special needs children together.

"There are people that feel alone. I don't want that for them," Tanner said.

"I don't want them to feel like they don't belong. I want them to know that they are a part of this."

Gary Knight took over as director of the walk last year.

His brother Bubba was the reason his family got involved.

Bubba passed away in March...this is their first year without him.

"With him now in heaven, we are still going to share that legacy and love that he gave to us," Knight said.

"He's walking with us he's always walking with us. He may not be here physically but he is here in spirit."

Tanner hopes more people will join the walk next year and hopes people will accept those with special needs.