Special care for special children

There are many persons who have dedicated their lives to helping others, changing lives and making a difference without desire for public recognition.

Patricia Pennington, a wife, mother of four, and resident of Linstead in St Catherine has captured the hearts of many who have witnessed her dedication and commitment to changing the lives of challenged children for more than 27 years.

Pennington, a community-based rehabilitation worker spends up to 12 hours each day in a small open room caring for children with challenges such as cerebral palsy and autism. Although compensated for a fraction of her efforts, Pennington goes beyond the call of duty five days per week to ensure that the children who are left in her care by their parents are properly cared for.

A recent visit by The Gleaner to the centre where Pennington operates, confirmed her passion for the job she does. At first, oblivious to the presence of The Gleaner she could be seen carrying out chores such as changing diapers, feeding, cleaning up areas littered by the children and teaching them different motor skills with the the aid of a computer among other things, all in a caring way with a touch of tenderness and compassion for the children involved.

"The satisfaction I get from caring for these children is to see, for example, a child with cerebral palsy being able to run up and down after my intervention. I have no limit to caring for them, it is not about compensation for me," she revealed.

willingness to work

Pennington's dedication and commitment is also reflected in her willingness to work in an environment that is not fully equipped with the necessary amenities to adequately meet requirements.

"We don't have the amenities here but I make do with what is available because in the end it is how you relate to these children that ultimately makes the difference in their lives," Pennington disclosed. adding that she has been doing this kind of work for 27 years and has never felt bored nor had any regret.

"I also volunteered my time sometimes on weekends to work with the parents passing on certain kind of activities for these physically challenged children to be involved in at home so as to contribute to their rehabilitation," she said.

Pennington's zeal in carrying out her passion is clearly having an impact not only on the lives of the children she cares for, but on the lives of community members.

A member of the Linstead Baptist Church who now volunteers her time two days per week to assist at the centre, modestly told The Gleaner not to mention her name because she did not want to take the attention away from Pennington.

She however stated that she decided to volunteer her time because she was inspired by Pennington's dedication and selflessness.

"She is a great human being who should be recognised for the good deeds she is doing here, most of which she is not even being paid for," she said.