Double The Fun At Buddy Walk

 
"I refer to the girls as the sunshine sisters just because everywhere they go they spread a little bit of sunshine," Cara Coleman, mother of the "Sunshine Sisters" said with a smile.

 
Cara and Jonathan already had two children when they were blessed with the twins three years ago and they say it was a blessing that has taught them a lifetime of lessons.

 
"People say that God gives these children to special families. I disagree. I believe that God gives these children and makes the family special. They've really changed our lives. They've instilled values into my other children that they will take with them for life. Just sticking up for somebody. Having a shoulder to cry on if you need it. Just being there for other people," explains Cara Coleman.

The Colemans know firsthand what it's like for others to be there for them; they are very involved with FRIENDS, an organization here in Dothan dedicated to supporting families that are affected by Down syndrome.

 
FRIENDS has put on the Buddy Walk for the past four years and this year they hoped to raise $75,000, which would all stay in the Wiregrass to help families just like the Colemans.

 
The Colemans said the costs can be difficult at times, but the rewards they receive far out shine any costs they endure.

"We have so many people that come out and support us that touch our lives so much because they don't have children with Down syndrome. They don't have Down syndrome. But they come out and support our family and our friends," shared Coleman.

 
The 5th annual Buddy Walk took place this past weekend and was a huge success, but it's not too late to contribute to this local organization. If you would like to do so you can contact Alicia Sims at 334-699-1118.