For the past four years, Javi and his family have participated in the LOOK! event to reflect on his incredible journey and to share his progress with the community that has rallied around him. Each year, the photos capture his spirit, his joy, and the unwavering love that surrounds him.

Javi was born with Down syndrome and complications with his esophagus and spent 81 days in the NICU. While he faced challenges early on, today he is a healthy energetic little boy. In the past year, Javi has reached several major milestones. He started full-day kindergarten in a traditional classroom and is thriving. He is counting in both English and Spanish and adding new words to his vocabulary every day. His biggest supporter is his older sister, Chloe, who understands him better than anyone. She cheers him on through every small step. Their bond is something truly special; they are, as his parents lovingly say, the best little team.

This year also brought new adventures: team sports! Javi played T-ball in the fall, basketball in the winter, and coach-pitch T-ball in the spring. The cheers he receives from the sidelines are genuine and full of love.

Javi’s joy is magnetic—brightening strangers’ days with nothing more than a smile and a wave. And then there are the big, heart-melting hugs. He gives them freely and often. His laughter, especially when he is up to something silly—like putting a puzzle piece in the wrong spot on purpose—is irresistible.
One morning while his dad was away, Javi woke up early and let his mom take her time getting up—until things got a little too quiet. She walked out to find Javi sitting in a pile of spilled rice cereal, drawing pictures in it like it was sand. It was a mess, but also a moment of innocent creativity and pure joy. This is Javi in a nutshell.

When they look to the future, his family hopes Javi will continue to be accepted and embraced by the people around him. They dream of a life full of independence, opportunity, and community, including college, a career, and uplifting friendships.