A Central Florida couple is utilizing its experience with disability to help families handle the challenge by working together.

For Jim and Rhonette Hukill, it's a matter of faith.

Beneath the spreading oaks near Leesburg, you see touching moments. One mom climbs a rope while her son proudly takes pictures. Brothers are competing for attention as their sister with Down syndrome plays nearby.

For the Lift Disability Network, the Florida Breakaway is an escape.

"Everything we do is focused on the family," Jim Hukill said. "So, every member of the family has an opportunity to participate in each event — whether it's tree climbing of it it's canoeing, they can go out."

Jim knows the power of family. Born with a rare neuromuscular disease, doctors said he wouldn't survive. But his parents — who were both pastors — relied on faith. Not only did he thrive, but Jim established a career as a public speaker. Then he met Rhonette.

"Before Jim, I had never really encountered anyone with a disability, especially someone in a chair," Rhonette said. "And so, it was all new for me. But if you spend any time with Jim, the chair quickly disappears."

The Hukills have now been married for 20 years. They created the Lift Disability Network in 1998 utilizing their unique perspectives on dealing with disability. The Winter Garden-based network also has branches in Minnesota and Missouri.

"My heart goes out for the caregiver," Rhonette said. "And I can't imagine what it would be like if you have multiple or more difficult circumstances."

During the week-long breakaway, crew members lend a hand to the kids, maybe baiting a hook or just being a friend.

Faith is a very important part of camp.

There were about 100 people at this year's event, which was held at Lake Yale. Jim wants to grow that number to about 150 campers and then split it because he said there is a demand for more camps.

Private donations and grants keep the network running. Most of the families get scholarships to offset costs. It's a chance for mom and dad to be restored so they can continue the journey.

"No matter what our disabilities are, we have a future and a hope," Jim said. "And while disability is a part of our life, it doesn't define us."