The Brunkow family has two terminally ill kids, both under the age of 10. Despite those tragic circumstances, the family, who lives in Onaga, has reason to find joy, and today, they hosted a celebration for all of those who have helped them.

Six year-old Dawson and his brother, eight year-old Dylan have been diagnosed with Duchenne's Muscular Dystrophy.

They can no longer walk up stairs. The family thought they'd have to move from their two-story home, but their community stepped in.

“Onaga is no different than thousands of other small communities across the country, that's the reason we live where we live, because we love and care about each other,” said Bob Venneberg, who spearheaded the fundraising and building efforts with another member of the Onaga community.

Dylan and Dawson’s parents said they cannot think of a way to thank those who have helped, but they are so thankful to provide their boys with a better life.

“I think it's important that they're treated just like anybody else. We want them to have a good life, a good quality of life,” said Sherri Brunkow, the boys’ mother.

In addition to the new bedrooms, the add-on included a new garage with a ramp. That will help the family when they buy a wheelchair-accessible van. The family is still accepting donations to help buy wheelchairs and other supplies.

If you want to help, you can send checks to Morrill and Janes Bank, 301 Leonard St., P.O. Box 180, Onaga, 66521. Checks should be made out to Kansas Rural Communities Foundation with a note designated for The Ties That Bind project.