About Angels in Disguise
Angels in Disguise focuses on the
celebration of the gift of Down Syndrome.
#SupporttheSmile @SupporttheSmile
At Angels In Disguise, we stand up for those with Down Syndrome in everything we say and do. We have celebrated 150 adoptions across the country, provided life-changing heart surgeries, and empowered individuals through educational grants and advocacy.
Our Founders
Angels in Disguise was founded by Mike and Penny Michalak after the birth of their daughter, Elena Rose. Elena was born with Down syndrome. Having grown up with an Uncle With Down syndrome, Uncle Ray, Mike & Penny were overjoyed to have another Angel into their lives.
Seeing the response of those around them and being made aware of the challenges still facing individuals with Down syndrome, Mike and Penny held a concert for Elena’s 1st birthday, to celebrate her in a special way. This concert grew into a cause to “Celebrate the GIFT of Down Syndrome!”
Since founding Angels in Disguise, the Michalaks adopted four more children, three of which has the gift of Down syndrome. You can read more about their son, Max, here.
Max’s Story
Max was adopted by the Founders of Angels in Disguise, Mike and Penny Michalak, in 2014. Max was diagnosed with Down syndrome as well as Arterial Pulmonary Hypertension. Although they knew their time with Max would be short, they welcomed him into the family. Perhaps if he had parents to advocate for him earlier in his life, his story would have ended differently.
In the summer of 2018, Max was given six months to live. God graciously allowed Max to be with his family for much longer than expected. He was able to do and experience so many things that brought him joy, as he brought joy to others. He passed away on December 9, 2019, the day before his 8th birthday.
Although there is great sorrow in his passing, there is also reason to find joy. Instead of dying alone in an orphanage, the joy of adoption brought him a family, connection, and faith.
This loss only reiterates the very real life-or-death consequences for children with Down syndrome. The Angels in Disguise adoption grants program has helped bring over 100 children home to their Forever Families, and our new initiative to “Help Heal Broken Hearts” has provided funds for 6 heart surgeries for children with Down syndrome.
Please help us keep the memory of Max alive by supporting Angels in Disguise!