Community Hero 2007
Kyle Mabry
Kyle was diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy when he was just six months old. Being unable to talk or do things on his own are among the most difficult challenges Kyle confronts each day. Regular trips to the hospital and the disappointment of missing so much school are commonplace for Kyle.
Like a true hero, Kyle won’t allow his condition to stop him from doing what he wants to do or keep him from having fun in the first place. He refuses to stop fighting, and has a wonderful way of putting a smile on everyone’s face.
Kyle’s interests are varied and numerous. He likes to garden, ski, fish, and camp. At age 16, he’s something of a computer whiz and enjoys exploring the online pages of MySpace.com. His favorite food is spaghetti with ranch dressing; his favorite music is pop. Kyle has lots of friends, including his special caregiver Wendy.
With a new communication device, called a Vanguard, Kyle is teaching others how to communicate with him. Unable to move, he uses his cheek to control the device. “He’s very good at getting his point across,” says his mother, Shawna. “Kyle makes no excuses for himself. And he brings a lot of love and joy to his friends and family.”
Kyle’s advice to other young people facing difficult situations is this: “Don’t give up, just keep on trying.”
