Ruth Lee
2004 Community Hero
At 6, Ruth is a delightful, jovial little girl who greets every day with a big, broad smile and loves to joke around. No wonder her family calls her “Happy.” When asked what makes Ruth happiest of all, her mother, Elizabeth, replies, “Puppies, pizza, playtime and family.” At school, Ruth enjoys making art and drawing funny characters in all shapes and sizes.
Even though she can’t walk, jump, run or skip like her brothers and sisters and other children, Ruth refuses to let that stop her. “Ruth has never quit smiling – or trying her best at whatever she does. She’s constantly happy, even when everyday things like climbing stairs become too hard for her,” says her mom.
As anyone who knows her will attest, Ruth has a knack for making people feel warm inside. Her kind-hearted, forgiving nature and joyful presence quickly put others at ease. Ruth’s sage advice to those facing tough times is this: “Never give up, always get up and try, try again.” It’s plain to see that Ruth lives by her own words.
