SIOUX CITY, Iowa (KTIV) -
We've often heard about walking with a purpose. But what if you didn't have the ability to walk on your own? What if you needed someone to help you?
Out on this Morningside track, you can find Shawn Donnelly and his family taking a morning stroll, but for Donnelly, each stride is more than just exercise.
"Sometimes we get caught up in a world where we're trying to get ahead, and people with disabilities and special needs teach us that we need to slow down and look at the beautiful things in life," said Donnelly
Donnelly's son, Davis, has Down syndrome. He says it's one of the greatest gifts he's ever had because he learns so much from Davis every day. He says Woodbury County's ARC program for children with special needs has been a tremendous blessing to his family.
"Just helped us out so much for Davis to be around friends and people he knows that won't be mean to him or bully him," said Donnelly.
But now, a possible government cutback, could seriously slash the ARC's annual summer programs, like field trips and social events. So they're holding this walk to raise money and awareness. Some took one lap around the track, while others opted for several more.
Some didn't even walk at all. They had somebody else walk for them, and they did this to show their unity in keeping this program alive.
"I don't think the community and the legislators know how much of an impact the cuts have had on this part of the population," said Nancy Mullally, president of Woodbury County ARC program.
Samantha Hudgens is part of that population. She was born with spina bifida, which stunts her ability to walk.
"When I was born my spine, part of my spine was open and the bones were on the outside, so when I was born I had to have surgery right away," said Hudgens.
Using crutches, Hudgens is one of many participants walking for herself, and in memory of a former roommate, Jennifer Clancy.
"She was one of the best friends I ever had," said Samantha Hudgens of Sioux City. "She passed away almost a year ago and I just really loved her."
For Hudgens, the program has provided her with new opportunities to learn and interact with others, ones she thought she'd never get. She hopes the ARC's summer schedule will stick around.
"I love to cook and I love to learn new things, so that's what I'm doing," said Hudgens.
With every step, they're a little closer to keeping their program afloat. Turnout for today's walk was about 150 people. Organizers hoped to raise about $7,000.
