Family that rescued doll from tornado-struck house celebrates the important things

A little girl’s American Girl Doll clothes collection was lost after the Memorial Day tornadoes destroyed her family’s home.

>>Tornado damage can't stop father from finding daughter's favorite doll

After her story was shared, a charitable seamstress saw to it that Storm Walker’s doll would have plenty of outfits, and American Girl Doll reached out for Storm to bring in the doll for a makeover.

On Friday, though, the Walker family were able to enjoy something they couldn’t after the tornado - a birthday party in their new home, a mobile home in Springfield.

The family said that the occasion partly underlined the loss of their previous home and their financial security.

“Financially we’re, we’re hit,” mother Beth said, laughing.

Of the birthday party, she said, "Last year she was able to go to sky zone and jump around and have fun and invite all of her friends."
>>Woman surprises tornado victim with new outfits for her American Girl doll

“It just reminds you of all the things that maybe we could have been doing or maybe would have done just if we had been in our old house,” father Tim said.

However, the parents said that although they may not have all they want, they have what they need.

“Although we lost everything,” Beth said, “this is what matters the most.”

Plus, Storm and her brother said their new home comes with perks such as a nearby creek to play in and lots of friends to play with.