...let me tell you a little bit about our Patricia.  First and foremost, she adores Dolly Parton. She sings and signs (American Sign Language) to just about all of Dolly’s songs. Patricia is hearing impaired, but does not need signing to communicate. Remarkably, she has taught herself signing through systematic studying of sign books and memorizing the words. She decided on her own to do this so that she could help children that do have communication needs.

During the last year and a half, Patricia has used her signing skills and her wonderful personality in her internship as a teacher’s assistant in two elementary schools. She has worked with children that have disabilities and with a regular pre-school class. Every Saturday night, she is the caregiver at our church for a precious young lady who is blind and profoundly disabled.  They adore each other.  Patricia is teaching Amanda finger spelling that she learned from studying Helen Keller’s life.

Patricia will graduate from her high school here on June 6. She has been in regular classes since the third grade and has worked very hard to reach this Senior year and finally ..Graduation!  We are all very excited to know that she will be employed in our school district next year.  She again will be working with children with all kinds of disabilities.  That is her heart’s desire, to be with and love children that have challenges. 

I almost forgot to tell you that Patricia has Down Syndrome. As you can see from the enclosed photo, she is a beautiful little red-head.  Our family has looked at her as our special gift from God, and have always endeavored to help her meet her potential.

We really want to reward Patricia for her efforts.  It has taken many long hours of hard work over the years, but she has persevered. As one of our favorite Dolly songs says “She is a Brave Little Soldier.”  That song has meant so much to us, as I am sure it does to all the precious little ones that your Foundation reaches out to.  I can’t think of anything at all that would please and touch Patricia more than being able to see Dolly, especially if she could be with children that are needing to be encouraged.

I would be most grateful for any consideration that you could give towards helping Patricia get to see Dolly in the Christmas Benefit.  That would be an incredible reward for our Patricia...

...Thank you so very much for letting me tell you just a little bit about my very special little lady.