Anna Coleman supporters walk in her honor
Published 6:31 pm Saturday, May 18, 2013
Supporters of Anna Coleman Yelverton walked 1-mile in her honor Saturday from the City Landing to the Public Square and back down Main Avenue.
Friends and family of Anna Coleman Yelverton walked in her honor Saturday morning.
The Demopolis 11-year-old has faced numerous health issues for her young life, including cancer and severe scoliosis.
Though Anna Coleman has been cancer free for two years, she recently had her ninth back surgery due to scoliosis. It will hopefully by her final surgery, according to mom Jennifer Thomason.
“It will fuse her vertebrae so her spine will no longer grow,” said Thomason.
Anna Coleman rode in a wagon for part of the mile, and then lead everyone in a golf cart for the rest. She is being pulled above by Chip Hughes, whose daughter Allie played T-ball with Anna Coleman, while talking with her mom.
In all, Anna Coleman has endured 28 surgeries, about that many radiation treatments and 80 chemotherapy treatments.
“She has never quit smiling,” Thomason said. “She has smiled through everything she has been through.”
Tammy Jones helped organize the 1-mile fundraiser that started at the Demopolis City Landing. She pastors River of Life Church with her husband, Brian.
Jones says Anna Coleman and her daughter Joy became friends while in the same classroom at US Jones Elementary School.
“I was praying for Anna Coleman one day, and God told me to have a walk for her,” Jones said. “I said I’ve never done this before, but when God tells you to do something you just have to do it.”
Thomason thanked everyone who came out Saturday to show their love for Anna Coleman.
“When I found out I was pregnant, I gave her to God right then. There have been many challenges. The road has not been easy a lot, but we chose to be thankful every day for every blessing,” said Thomason. “She is the biggest blessing. She is funny and sweet and loving. She will melt your heart, and she is here for a reason. I truly believe that.”
