For the Love of Hadley

Yesterday the world lost a shining star when Kenny Kramm passed away at the age of 55. Kenny is featured to the right and forefront of this photo during the recent 24th birthday celebration of his daughter, Hadley – also featured up front between her beautiful mother, Shelley, and her older sister, Sarah. Though it was a fun night with the Kramm clan, there were many unknown and quiet changes afoot in Hadley’s life, which included the separation of her parents after more than thirty years of marriage and moving out of her beloved  home.  And while Kenny and Shelley had agreed to move on in separate directions, what remained between them was a steadfast friendship and devotion to both of their children. They might not be romantic partners anymore, but they were parents which made them partners for life. Their mutual dedication was most apparent when last month Hadley became hospitalized with severe pneumonia – her crippling Cerebral Palsy making both treatment and communication with caregivers a tremendous challenge. Standing sentry beside her for 24-hours a day were Kenny and Shelley, seeing Hadley through to a full recovery. We were all so grateful to see her back home. Shelley even saw Kenny off to the beach for a long weekend afterwards, from which he returned feeling tired and run-down. Within days we learned an insidious bacterial infection had taken hold and was rapidly shutting his systems down. And during the dawn of July 12th, Kenny slipped away.

For those of you who do not know this couple or their story, they’ve been true champions of the disabled. Inspired by Hadley’s complications, Kenny used his pharmaceutical background to create a formula called “Flavor X” to soften the taste and effects of bitter medicine for children. It is now used around the world. Shelley used her skills in design and landscape architecture to develop “Hadley’s Park” in Potomac – a pioneering recreation facility for handicapped children. With Shelley’s help, this model has been duplicated across the country providing disabled children with a safe and accessible place to play and exercise outdoors.

Now back to Hadley. Anyone who has met her has this instant advantage – you will fall in love. A bright and shining star in her own right, Hadley has lifelong challenges that require twenty-four hour care. Because the cost of her needs will surpass their personal resources, and respite care will be critical for Shelley if she is to maintain balance in her life, I am seeking to raise at least $25,000 to be put in a special needs trust specifically for Hadley’s ongoing needs. This is a big number. But as a way to honor Kenny and to keep his legacy of love for Hadley alive, I am asking you to please make a donation and to share this post with anyone who -- like Kenny and Shelley -- are willing to make a lasting difference. Thanks so much.