The annual D’Dummers Parade taking place today in Ridley Park will be led this year by toddler Callan Palladino, who was born with a rare heart defect, writes Isaac Avilucea for Axios.
The D’Dummers Parade is an annual fundraiser organized by Philadelphia Eagles fans to support local families struggling with a serious medical issue.
Callan Palladino and his family will be the recipients of this year’s fundraiser.
Hundreds in costume will take to the streets at 2 PM. That will be followed up by celebrations at Dolan’s Bar.
The goal is to raise $3,000–$5,000 to help offset some of the Palladino family’s medical costs.
Callan Palladino was born with a single ventricle. He has undergone a 13-hour open-heart surgery, spent his first 300 days in the hospital, takes 11 medications daily, and is still on a feeding tube.
The second of three surgeries will take place in April.
“It’s definitely been a rollercoaster of emotions,” said dad Dan Palladino, who has appreciated Delco’s support for Callan and his family.
Palladino said he’s grateful that his smiling son gets a day to just be a kid.
Read more about Callan Palladino and the origins of the D’Dummers parade in Axios.
