Behind every major cause are people and stories that validate its existence. For the Fetal Health Foundation and its main fundraising event, The Great Candy Run, that inspiration is in the form of twin girls, Ashley and Aspen Somers.
Just over 13 years ago, Lonnie and Michelle Somers learned of complications with their pregnancy. As it was their first, they were scared and left with few answers. The babies were diagnosed with Twin-to-Twin Transfusion Syndrome (TTTS), a rare intrauterine disease of the placenta that affects identical twins. The Somers found answers and treatment on their own and, after welcoming their twin babies into the world, founded the Fetal Health Foundation so that other families would have a reliable source for answers, support, and hope.
“To know that because of me, other kids are getting a second chance at life is just amazing and I am so thankful to be able to give them that opportunity,” said Aspen Somers. Twin sister Ashley added, “Being part of Fetal Health and The Great Candy Run makes me feel like I have a meaning to my life. I am meant to change the world.”
The twins have been participating in the run and volunteering on Race Day for several years, always behind the scenes supporting families looking for answers.