Last Saturday the Real Life Wesleyan Church in Mechanicsville was the site for a glorious occasion of crowning a new Warrior Princess. Many local beauty pageant winners and princesses traveled from near and far to be a part of this day.

Abby Weinberg has been a real trooper through her battle against AGS, Aicardi–Goutières Syndrome, an extremely rare genetic disorder that doctors are still learning about.

It is present at birth but doesn’t show any symptoms. Later it will mimic an infectious process but will damage the brain, immune system and skin.

Abby continues to defeat the odds which made her more than worthy of receiving her new title. She was presented with her crown and related paraphernalia right on stage in front of a large crowd of supporters.

In fact all of the money raised will go to help fund that research and hopefully find a cure for future children who are diagnosed with AGS.

You will notice that Foundation 4 Heroes’ Amazing Spiderman, Mickey Mouse and Scooby Doo all supported the event by wearing jeans to support the “gene” research being done at Children’s Hospital.

Finding jeans for a dog is no easy task but then Scooby Doo would tell you he isn’t a dog.

Chick-fil-A was there with a beautiful, Princess Cow. A tender moment occurred when she entered the church and was greeted by a warm, mutual hug from Scooby Doo that made everyone let out, “Awe.”

Kona Ice served up some delicious treats including the most amazing flavor called … Godzilla. They have quite a great setup and satisfied the kids, even on a cool day.

All in all it was an emotional day and a special thanks goes out to Mike Batson Photography for capturing it on film for us.

I spoke to my wife about some pictures I had seen of Abby laying on a family member’s chest with her eyes closed and a big smile. It was very touching and heart-warming to see that type of emotion from a little girl who has been through so much.

She has a strong and courageous family but continued support from her friends and family will always be needed. Like any of our children and families in the community dealing with these types of emotional circumstances, please continue to support them.

This weekend, Foundation 4 Heroes will be heading to Columbus to meet up with the Terminator himself, Mr. Arnold Schwarzenegger.

Remember — “Even Heroes Need a Hero.”