Kelly Blumenthal
Mom to Mason, age 2
and Finn, age 1
Stafford, VA
Nominated by Lauren Richards
Kelly Blumenthal is hands-down the
most amazing and strongest mother
I know. She is the mother of a sweet
27-month-old and a 13-month-old,
“Finn” who was born with multiple
complex health issues including CHD
(Congenital Heart Disease - Defect).

She has turned her hardship into a
wonderfully positive mission to help
others, raising thousands of dollars
for UVA Children’s Hospital and the
Charlottesville Ronald McDonald
House, while maintaining a Facebook
page, “Prayers for Finn,” documenting
not only her journey, but those in
similar situations. This page raises
funds, awareness and emotional
support for babies with CHD and their
families. She has made life-changing
relationships with other hospital
families, spearheaded the donation
of thousands of invaluable items for
patients, inspired countless strangers
with her strength, courage and faith,
and introduced the world to a precious
boy many pray for every day.

always learn something new from other
moms and enjoy exchanging battle
stories and magic moments with them.

It’s an indescribable understanding that
we all have among one another that
creates a special bond.

What’s the best parenting advice
you’ve ever received?
The best parenting advice I have
received is that silence is not always
golden. If your children are quiet,
it probably means they are up to
something! What advice would you give to new or
expectant mothers?
Cherish every moment, even the
tough ones that come along with
parenting, because you never know
what tomorrow will bring. Rock them a
little longer, hug them a little tighter and
laugh as much as possible.

How has motherhood changed
your outlook on life?
It took a long time to realize
everything really does happen
for a reason, but it truly does. We
experienced five years of infertility,
including failed IVF, but in the end,
we have two beautiful babies. Going
through these challenges in addition
to our youngest needing open heart
surgery has definitely given me strength
that I never knew I had, faith to get
through the toughest of times and a
true understanding of the moments in
life that really matter.

How do you think your children would
describe you?
I hope my children would describe
me as brave, kind and happy.

Who is your role model?
My role models are other moms. I
What goals do you have for yourself?
I would like to spread awareness for
Congenital Heart Disease and raise
money for UVA Children’s Hospital
in Charlottesville, VA, as well as their
adjoining Ronald McDonald House.

What goals do you have for
your children?
I just want them to be happy and kind
to others. If they are happy and kind,
then to me, I’ve done my job. Whatever
their definition is of that happiness, I
will always support them. Education is
also very important to me. I would love
to see them excel and graduate from a
good Virginia college like William and
Mary or UVA!
washingtonFAMILY.com May 2016 19