Midwest Leak Magazine

To her family, Tammy was simply Tammy.

She was a sister, a daughter, a music lover, a fan of The Golden Girls, and someone who enjoyed her independence.

She loved hugs, brought joy wherever she went, and was surrounded by a family and community that knew her gifts, understood where she needed support, and made space for her to belong.

From the time she was young, Tammy’s family participated in her growth together. They exercised with her, celebrated when she began walking, and made sure she had the same opportunities to explore her interests as her siblings.

Her story also reminds us that inclusion begins with understanding. When people were uncertain around Tammy, familiarity and connection often transformed that uncertainty into affection.

Tammy was raised with love, and she returned that love to the people around her.

Through Common Threads: Portfolios of Joy and Possibility, we honor the relationships, everyday practices, and communities that allow people to be known fully for who they are.

RelationshipsMatter