Birthday celebration highlights goals for special needs group

Lydia Barten enjoyed her eighth birthday this week, and she and her family had much to celebrate - and others to celebrate with.

Diagnosed with Down syndrome and a heart defect, the Wauconda youngster had open-heart surgery at 6 months old. At age 4, she received a pacemaker.

She still has problems to overcome, but the prognosis is excellent.

Her parents, Laura and Dan Barten, are now reaching out to help other parents raising children with special needs through Living Legacy, a nonprofit organization.

Rain didn't stop the organization's Extravaganza party for families of children with special needs Saturday at the Barten's home. Kids and their families enjoyed food, treats, music, raffles, games and crafts.

"We had considered rescheduling due to the rain, but even if one family came, it was worth holding," Laura Barten said.

Jim and Latifa Hunt braved the rain to bring their 8-year-old son James to the party. James, a third-grader at Isaac Fox School in Lake Zurich, has cerebral palsy. He has undergone open-heart surgery and numerous surgeries.

"We wanted to spend time with people in the same situation. Besides having fun, you might learn from somebody in a similar situation," said Latifa Hunt.

Since its inception five years ago, Living Legacy has helped about six families, including two families headed by single dads, Dan Barten said.

"Our ultimate goal is to have a community center for special needs kids," he said. "We want to alleviate some of the stress for these families."

The organization also has provided families with circus tickets and holiday presents and helped pay some of their bills.

Family friend Karen Meintzer serves on the seven-member board.

She said she believes in Dan Barten's vision.

"The board meets every three months, and we also hold special meetings to prepare for events such as the one today," said Meintzer, of Waukegan.

Jared Johnson served as the deejay Saturday. The Elgin resident met Dan Barten through Christian Life Church where Johnson was a youth pastor.

"I see Dan's heart and what he and his family have experienced. They're the type of people who want to help others," he said.

Melissa Kraszczyk, 6, a friend of Lydia's and her family came to celebrate. They had attended the party last year as well, when the weather was sunny.

"My favorite is the back yard. There's so much to do, including a tree house," Melissa said.