09/14/2026
A True Story of Bravely, love, compassion, determination and maturity of My 4 year Pre-K Student.
💛 Kelly, My 4-Year-Old Hero 💛
I want to share a story about one of my older daycare children — 4-year-old Kelly — and why she will always be my hero.
The day before, I tripped while carrying one of my infants. I twisted to protect the baby from hitting the floor and felt that old back injury from over 20 years ago flare up — pain down my back and right leg.
The next morning, while walking, my back just gave out. Like there was no backbone. I was on the floor and couldn't move.
Kelly saw me and in the calmest little voice asked, "Can I help you?"
I asked her to first get the hot pad and ice pack. She knew right where they were and brought them to me while I did my small physical therapy exercises on the floor to loosen up.
Once I could move a little, she helped me up to the couch. I started hot and cold treatment, and the whole time Kelly stayed right by me doing little things without being asked.
My 1-year-old woke up in her cot and I couldn't lift her. Kelly climbed into the play yard cot and helped me lift the baby so I could take her out safely. She got the diaper and helped me change her.
It was almost lunch time. Kelly said, "Can I help with lunch?" I told her lunch taquitos were in the freezer in the garage and I would need her to hold my hand so I could walk. Hand in hand, we made it. I guided her to use the microwave and she warmed up lunch and served the other children.
I was so impressed by her maturity.
At nap time, she did our whole routine exactly as we do every day. She directed the other 3-year-olds to go potty, got out all their mats and cots, and got everyone settled. Once they were asleep, she came back and asked, "Do you need more help? Are you okay?"
That is when I had to hold back tears. How willing she was to do everything for me and her classmates.
I survived that day because of Kelly. If it weren't for her, I would have had to call all the parents to come pick up their children.
Today I want to recognize Kelly with a Bravery Award with Compassion. She showed courage, kindness, and leadership far beyond her 4 years.
Thank you, Kelly, my little hero. You will always have a special place in my heart. 🦸♀️💕
