Facing Rare Childhood Diagnoses, the Dempsey and Powell Families Share Stories of Love, Strength, and Community Support
In Owensboro, two families recount journeys marked by hardship, resilience, and enduring community support. The Dempseys and the Powells each cared for and lost a daughter with rare and life-threatening conditions. Yet, both families remain grounded by memories of their children’s spirits and the love they received from their community.
Arabella Dempsey
Palmer and Lisa Dempsey’s daughter, Arabella, was diagnosed with multiple disabilities yet remained a mystery to doctors despite extensive genetic testing. As doctors struggled to determine a primary diagnosis and Arabella continued to defy the odds, her parents effectively referred to her as a “unicorn.” The Dempseys said she was a unique and spirited child whose resilience defied medical predictions from the start.
“We knew at 12 weeks she was going to have some kind of challenge, but we didn’t know what it would be,” Lisa said.
Despite being told every two weeks that she might not make it, Arabella persisted, born into a world that doctors warned she might never see.
“She just kept doing things that surprised everyone,” Palmer said.
Determined to give Arabella and their older daughter, Kylee, the best life, the Dempseys made a difficult decision. Lisa moved to Cincinnati before Arabella’s birth, where she was overseen by a specialized team at the Children’s Hospital who could provide the care their unborn daughter needed. Palmer stayed home with Kylee and to work. The two traveled every weekend to be with Lisa. With unwavering support from friends, family, and the Owensboro community, they navigated a whirlwind of challenges.
“Our community was amazing,” Lisa recalled. “He had a group of friends who organized a fundraiser for us, and my coworkers donated time off so I’d never miss a paycheck.”
The family’s sacrifices were immense; Lisa left her job, and the Dempseys accepted around-the-clock assistance from nurses. Yet their focus remained on making Arabella and Kylee’s life as joyful as possible. They traveled to baseball games, beaches, Niagara Falls, and many community events in Owensboro, creating a lifetime of memories in Arabella’s five years.
Her parents emphasized the importance of advocating for one’s child.
“You know your child better than anyone. Even if every professional says something, you need to follow your heart,” Palmer said. “Arabella surprised everyone by achieving a level of independence that her doctors thought impossible.”
The Dempseys are forever grateful for Arabella’s lasting impact on their family and others.
“Her presence enriched everyone she encountered,” Palmer said.
She spent time in school, attending both Seven Hills and Hagar, and cherished every experience, including chalk art and Friday night events.
“She achieved so much more than we ever thought possible,” Lisa added.
Georgia Powell
Amanda and George Powell’s daughter, Georgia, shared a similarly tenacious spirit. Born prematurely and then diagnosed with cerebral palsy after contracting RSV, Georgia’s life was filled with doctor visits, therapy sessions, and countless obstacles. Yet, through it all, her mother said she radiated happiness.
“She arrived early, on December 1, and she came fighting,” Amanda said.
Despite a series of health challenges, Georgia’s resilience was evident as she overcame one hurdle after another. Although she was nonverbal and immobile, her mother said she connected deeply with those around her.
“She had a way of letting us know when she needed something,” she said. “She was just always happy; her cheeks would flush when something was wrong, but otherwise, she just smiled.”
The Powells took her to school, where she quickly grew fond of fellow students and staff alike. Amanda said Georgia attended Foust Elementary, where her teachers worked closely with her.
“The school had a Special Needs Unit, and even though she couldn’t talk, they knew how to care for her. She was just adored,” Amanda said.
She added that her four siblings played a significant role in her life, finding ways to bring her joy and often tickling her to hear her laugh. Amanda said she and her family always felt supported by the Owensboro community.
“The support has been overwhelming. Meals were brought to us, and our kids’ schools have been incredibly helpful,” Amanda said.
Accepting help was initially challenging, but Amanda said the family came to appreciate the generosity as a necessary part of their journey.
“People want to help you, and sometimes, the best thing you can do is accept it graciously,” she said.
While reflecting on moving forward, Amanda admitted, “There’s no guidebook for this. I’m learning as I go, but I’m grateful we live in a community that’s been so giving and supportive. Georgia touched so many lives, even without words. She just made everyone around her feel comfortable.”
The Dempseys and Powells have experienced unimaginable loss, yet their stories are filled with memories of their daughters’ remarkable courage and joy along with a community that rallied in support of two families of their own.