http://www.nmeda.com/mobility-awareness-month/heroes/kansas/leonardville/1300/kelly-carmodyKelly Carmody is a true definition of a local hero. She is a foster mom, truly with heart of gold. During six years of being a foster parent, she has dealt with many of the difficult issues that many foster parents would back out of. Throughout the years, even as a single mom, she has taken it upon herself to love her foster children unconditionally. One particular child is named Peyton. He was born with SMA Type 2 Disease which makes the large muscles deteriorate. Peyton was placed with Kelly after being abandoned because of his diagnosis, suffering neglect, and after witnessing horrific events. His disability has made it difficult for foster parents to take care of him, yet Kelly has created a loving and accepting home for him for five years. Last year, Kelly became pregnant and found it physically difficult to continue to take care of Peyton and give him the care he needed so she searched and found a great foster home for him to move to. She continued to visit throughout the time and loved him dearly. Soon, though, Peyton’s new foster family found it difficult as well to meet the demands of his growing yet deteriorating body. When Kelly found out about this, she put in a request to bring Peyton back to her residence. Already dealing with lack of sleep with a newborn, Kelly put her needs aside yet again to take care of Peyton, who also needs to be moved every 2-3 hours each night. Currently, it is very difficult to take Peyton on trips to town, doctor’s appointments, or even to the park due to the lack of handicap accessibility and his physical needs. As a single mom, teacher of children with emotional disturbances, and foster mom, Kelly would be the perfect candidate for this donation of a vehicle! She expends a lot of time and money to ensure the best care for Peyton. Kelly is educated, active in her community, taking care of friends and neighbors. She is known for her giving spirit and always being there to lend a hand or hug. Kelly never shies away from difficulties yet has such a contagious, positive attitude despite the challenges she faces. She would love to be able to provide transportation to make Peyton’s life more enjoyable as he is just as much part of her family as her biological babe.
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