Seattle’s Child is proud to partner with the state Department of Children, Youth and Families Strengthening Families Washington to honor outstanding caregivers doing important work on behalf of children.
All month long, we’ll introduce you to Unsung Heroes from around the state: biological parents, grandparents, foster and adoptive parents. Some volunteer at local schools; some have started nonprofits; some mentor others in their communities. Enjoy their stories.
Kendall Bowen, Sedro-Woolley
Kendall and her husband, Alex, have consistently gone above and beyond for the sibling set that has been in their care since both siblings were discharged from hospitals after their birth. Both children in their care have specialized medical needs, which meant that before taking placement of the oldest sibling, they had to commute to Seattle Children’s hospital to learn how to do specialized feedings and other forms of medical care.
Both children are frequently admitted to the hospital, including the NICU and PICU. Kendall has stayed with the children every time they are in the hospital for the duration of their stay to comfort them and strongly advocate for their needs. This means that Christmas, other holidays, and even her birthday have been spent in the hospital to care for the children. Additionally, they have assisted in facilitating visits with parents, helping to contact and locate parents, and alert DCYF when one parent was in a dangerous situation.
The Bowens have provided such great care for the oldest child that when the mother gave birth to the younger sibling, the mother specifically requested the hospital contact Kendall to assist with providing necessary medical information and asked for Kendall to take placement of the youngest as well.
The Bowens treat both siblings the way they treat their biological children, and it is clear that the siblings have quickly become part of their family. There simply isn’t enough space within 250 words to accurately share how incredible this family is.
Nominator: Nicole Patterson
More Unsung Heroes:
Amy Jensen has shown her boys what a mother can do
Josie Garcia is passionate about her family and community
She pushed for an adaptive swing, and that was just the beginning
This Spokane mom strives to become the best version of herself
