September 9, 2010

When you picture an ice cream truck, you probably picture a plodding white van with loud, annoying music and faded pictures of ice cream sandwiches.

However, this week's heroes drive an ambulance ice cream truck in Madison County. They rescued a 1990 Ford Ambulance from turning to rust in a neighbor's driveway, and converted it into an emergency sugar response.

"We had a few people assume that their neighbor was carried out of their house," said Justin Edwards, who drive the unusual ice cream truck.

For the Edwards family, serving sweets out of freezers on four wheels is a family affair.

"We have Alyssa at the window, she's 13 years old. Kelsey rides up front to spot, she's 10. Jax is 8, he's my helper in the back with the freezer," said Sarah Edwards.

Not only are the kids meeting their neighbors and learning how to run a business at the same time, they're also helping create change in the Madison County community. Tip money from residents is put toward fundraising efforts in Madison.

"You know, [the money] all comes back out to where you can pretty much touch it again, it comes right back to you," said Rebecca McCloud.

The donations serve as a great excuse for customers, both young and old, to enjoy the ice cold treats without the guilt.

"The reaction is the same, whether it's an adult or a child, and everybody loves ice cream," said Justin.