Local family receives prizes from #SabasHeroes contest

Cole Ludwig, 11, received a new pair of Wrangler jeans for himself and his mom thanks to the #SabasHeroes giveaway from Saba’s Western Wear stores and Cowboy Lifestyle Network. The contest ran in December and asked entrants to post a photo on social media of their “Personal American Hero” who makes a difference in their lives. Three winners were chosen including Cole’s grandmother, who nominated Cole as her hero.
Linda Ludwig, Cole’s grandmother, said Cole inspires her. Cole was born with hypoplastic left heart syndrome, meaning the left side of his heart didn’t completely develop. Cole faced three major heart surgeries in his
childhood – the first when he was only 3 days old. Cole uses a wheelchair and also has a genetic disorder, cerebral palsy, hypothyroidism and epilepsy. He makes regular visits to numerous doctors including a specialist for catheterizations to help identify and repair any heart issues. Cole also has a service dog that helps monitor his seizures.
“Cole has been my hero since he was born because he pulls through everything with a smile on his face,” Linda said.
In February the Ludwig family enjoyed a shopping trip to the Saba’s store in Mesa on Superstition Springs Boulevard. Cole apparently inspired the Saba’s staff too. Initially, Cole’s prize was a pair of Cinch jeans. But once store staff met and spent some time with Cole, they decided to give him an extra gift of a belt too.
Contest winner Linda was also slated received her prize of a pair of jeans,
which she gave to Cole’s mom Yvonne. Yvonne chose a pair of Rock and Roll jeans. During this trip to Saba’s, staff learned that Cole’s dad works for the Gilbert Fire Department. The Saba’s team wanted to thank him too, and gifted him with a brand-new pair of Justin boots.
“Cole just loved this event,” said mom Yvonne. “He’s worn the belt every day since. He was thrilled.”