On Saturday, Feb. 16, five women arrived in Cincinnati, as part of a girlfriends weekend, to walk across the landmark Purple People Bridge.  Years ago, these women bonded as military-family women. When their friend, Michelle, was diagnosed with Scleroderma, they wanted to support her and bring awareness of the disease.

Michelle says, "These women are the most important women in my life. They keep the candle burning in me. It is because of them that we meet up every year in a different state to walk for this cause. They opened my eyes.  This is "Chicken Soup for MY Soul!"

The women met this year near Ft. Knox, KY, at Michelle home to begin their weekend of spa treatments, good food, catching up and building  awareness about Scleroderma.   They have traveled from TX, AL, MI, PA and KY to spend time together. Wherever they meet they walk.  If there is no formal walk organized they walk on their own carrying a banner and collecting t-shirts from each state, creating happy memories and celebrating life.

Pictured: Maria Smith - TX,  Maria Shelton - AL, Michelle Sanderson - KY, Kim Miller - PA, and Laura Christoff - MI.