Betsy S., 89, Doylestown, PA

Betsy Stenhouse, a resident of Harborview Nursing & Rehabilitation in Doylestown, had her wish to be recognized by her former school granted, thanks to our headquarters. Stenhouse, 89, contracted polio when she was a child, which left her disabled. She studied education at West Chester University and began her teaching career in 1952. Stenhouse was the first disabled schoolteacher at the Widener Memorial Industrial Teaching School for Crippled Children in Philadelphia, now known as The Widener Memorial School, teaching there for 27 years.

Stenhouse was very active in her community, starting a support group for others who were also afflicted with polio. In addition, she rescued stray cats near her home and cared for them, spaying and feeding those in need. Stenhouse also worked with local shelters to find homes for those cats in need.  To honor her teaching legacy, The Widener Memorial School created an award in her name which was presented to a student at graduation on May 30, 2019.  Current principal Harris Gaffin visited Stenhouse at her nursing facility on Friday, October 4^th to present her with a certificate recognizing her for her dedication to teaching. In addition, Gaffin brought many old photos and yearbooks to share with her. Twilight Wish staff presented Stenhouse with another certificate, flowers and a cake and cupcakes to share with other residents there.