In a heartwarming initiative, a local nonprofit organization, Mad Kicks, is making a significant impact by providing adaptive shoes for children with cerebral palsy. Founded by Marlene Thies, the organization addresses a critical need for proper footwear that accommodates leg braces, ensuring that these children can walk comfortably and confidently.
Key Takeaways
- Mission: Mad Kicks aims to provide free adaptive shoes to children with cerebral palsy.
- Community Support: The nonprofit has donated over a thousand pairs of shoes to families in Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky.
- Empowerment: Children are encouraged to choose their own shoes, fostering a sense of independence.
Madison Thies, a vibrant 6-year-old living with cerebral palsy, is a testament to the strength and resilience of children facing challenges. Her journey inspired her mother, Marlene, to create Mad Kicks after struggling to find suitable shoes that fit over Madison’s leg braces.
"She is such a strong girl and made me into a better person because I see her strength," Marlene shared, reflecting on her daughter’s impact on her life.
Children with cerebral palsy often require wider and larger shoes to accommodate their leg braces, but these specialized shoes can be prohibitively expensive and are not covered by government assistance. This gap in support led Marlene to establish Mad Kicks, which distributes shoes at Cincinnati Children’s Perlman Center and other facilities.
The Importance of Proper Footwear
Marlene emphasizes the importance of having the right shoes for children with cerebral palsy.
- Health and Comfort: Proper footwear is essential for preventing discomfort and ensuring that children can walk without pain.
- Independence: Allowing children to choose their shoes fosters a sense of autonomy and pride.
"We really are the only ones in the country that address this issue of children having correct footwear on their journey to walk," Marlene stated.
Madison enjoys the experience of selecting her shoes, often gravitating towards her favorite color, purple. Her brother, Robbie, expressed pride in their mother’s efforts, stating, "It makes me feel good when kids get shoes because if they didn’t have the right shoes, their feet would hurt."
Community Impact
The support from the community has been instrumental in the success of Mad Kicks. The organization has not only provided shoes but has also created a network of support for families navigating the challenges of cerebral palsy.
- Over 1,000 Shoes Donated: Mad Kicks has successfully donated more than a thousand pairs of shoes to children in need.
- Collaborative Efforts: The nonprofit works closely with physical therapists to ensure that children receive the correct shoe size.
Marlene believes that her mission is divinely inspired, stating, "I know God put me here to care for Madison and give her the best life. I believe that’s why God picks out certain kids for us because we’re strong and we can do it."
Mad Kicks continues to thrive, driven by the passion and dedication of its founder and the support of the community. The organization is a shining example of how local efforts can make a profound difference in the lives of children and families facing challenges.
For those interested in supporting Mad Kicks, there are various ways to contribute to their mission of providing essential footwear to children with cerebral palsy.
Sources
- Local nonprofit provides shoes to kids with cerebral palsy, WKRC.
- Local nonprofit provides shoes to kids with cerebral palsy, WKRC.
- Local nonprofit provides shoes to kids with cerebral palsy, WKRC.
