Spotlight on Local Heroes

Local heroes are residents of the area who do something for their community or peers without expecting recognition or praise in return. We like to give that un-sought praise and recognition anyway.

This week, we are featuring four local heroes who quietly bring comfort and smiles to frightened, tear-stained little faces. Ms. Donna Kenper of Norwood, Ohio, Ms. Lisa Barnes Ms. Theresa Hanlon, both of Independence, and Ms. Marie Berryman of Edgewood have been collecting small, stuffed animals and giving them to an ambulance service.

The EMTs and Paramedics, who often treat and transport injured and ill children from out-lying areas to Children S Hospital, carry these furry little smile-bringers on their squads, and use them as pari of their treatment of the little patients.

The Paramedics and EMT's give the stuffed animals to the children onboard the squads, which distracts them from the procedures that the paramedic may be forced to perform, such as IV sticks and needles from medication injections, In addition to making the child feel as though he or she has a new friend to go through the scary experience with them

We commend our three local heroes for the way their activities touch the hearts and lives of so many little ones.

If you know someone who I should be featured as one of our local heroes, please send us a letter to tell us about him or her. Be sure to include your name and telephone number so that we can reach you for more information. If you wish, you may send us a picture of your local hero with your letter. Pictures are returned with SASE.