Penny Shields
Ottawa, IL
Hero
Charity: 4 Paws for Ability
Penny is a remarkable woman.
She [and my father] continues to raise the who is left living at home of her brood of 12 children; 10 adopted - and most with special needs ranging from physical disability to those with poor mental health. Multiple psychiatry and therapy appointments consume her free time in the evening and on weekends it is trips to my brother's nursing home where she often entertains the entire client population with parties of some sort. During the day she works as a nurse in a classroom of primarily autistic children. However, she is a staple in the classroom, has learned sign to communicate with the children she serves, and always provides excellent care. She purchases toys, socks, shoes, and clothing with her own resources for children in her classroom whose parents are financially struggling.
My mother's idea of therapy is to sew quilts (usually by hand) for her family members and has been known to make quilts for those expecting children or for those who have lost a family member and would like a memory quilt made from clothing of their loved one.
My mother does not say "no" to anyone in need, though her modesty prevents her from relishing her greatness. She has managed to instill tradition, love, and morality in her children and demonstrate unconditional love to all. She is truly an amazing woman who has touched hundreds of lives.
