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. Throughout February, we’ll introduce you to Unsung Heroes from around the state. Enjoy their stories.Â
Dustin Madden, Sumner
Dustin Madden is our large family’s brother-in-law and uncle. Dustin is a father of five and became a widow unexpectedly in November 2023. His wife tragically died from aggressive stomach cancer.
Dustin is truly an Unsung Hero. Since his wife’s passing he has selflessly risen to all the challenges and new responsibilities and demands that come with fathering five grieving children. He is truly remarkable.
Dustin is there for his children. He is there 110% for the good days and the bad. He has centered his life around keeping his children thriving in all the ways listed for being nominated.
He has kept close family connections for the kids, asking for help when needed, and allowing all of us to be involved. He shares their accomplishments, supports them in school activities, sports, clubs, games and one-on-one time dates with his kids. He lets them sleep with him when they are struggling, pays close attention to how they are coping, and has gotten them in grief care.
He keeps them on a schedule, and keeps himself plugged into family and others who offer support. He celebrates his wins and his kids’ wins. He has stepped up in the most admirable and moving ways, keeping his family moving forward in the best ways possible, but also keeping in touch with the weight of the changes for him and his children. His children are thriving because of his love and dedication to all these wonderful actions listed on this paper.
— Melissa Ciccone
NOTE: Seattle’s Child is running these stories unedited, as written by the people who nominated them, in keeping with the DCYF Unsung Hero process.
More Unsung Heroes:
This inspiring family perseveres
A mother’s strength and resilience
