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Shelley Osterloh ReportingSometimes teachers teach as much by example as they do by the book. One Roy High school teacher was honored today by Weber School district for what he did on his own time, helping a little girl with disabilities feel a little more independent.
This is the story of an elementary school principal who saw a student in need, a high school shop teacher who had the skill and willingness to help and the little girl who has touched many hearts.
Seven-year old Danica Kidman needed help from her Dad to stand in front of students at Roy High school today. She has Cerebral Palsy and can't walk or stand. But she, and others like Coach Ron McBride, gathered today to thank a teacher who helped Danica, even though he didn't know her.
Ron McBride, Football Coach: "People like brad are very special because they give of their abilities to do things."
After meeting with Danica' s parents, her school principal saw a need.
Janice Combe, Principal Washington Terrace Elementary: "She had mentioned that Danica could not sit up to the table to do her homework or eat with the family."
The Prinicapl spoke to the High school wood shop teacher and he went to work on his own time to create a special chair. It is upholstered in her favorite color, yellow, with multiple adjustments that will grow with her.
Danica Kidman: "I put my arm right here. And then I can do work like this."
Tiffany Kidman, Danica's Mother: "It helps her sit up so she is not slouched over and it also helps her speech."
Justin Kidman Danica's Father: "She's been able to do a lot more stuff now and she enjoys it."
In accepting the award, Brad Carson issued a challenge to students.
Brad Carson, Roy High Shop Teacher: "I think the world would be a better place if everybody would just step up and help somebody out. And I'd like to challenge each and every one of you to just do something nice for somebody along the line."
Danica says she loves her new chair and the things she can now do in it, and she appreciates the man who made it for her.
Danica Kidman: "He's an awesome guy."
That kind of special chair normally costs about $3,000, but the one that Brad Carson built cost just $300 dollars -- the price of the materials. It's made a world of difference to the Kidmans. Carson has made two other similar chairs for other young students who need them.
