A Journey of Care and Connection Through Lifesharing
When uncertainty clouded their future, KenCrest’s Lifesharing program stepped in to help Amy and Missy find stability and hope.
Amy and Missy, two sisters with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), faced an uncertain future when their lives took an unexpected turn. They had spent their lives sharing a room in a small home, and when their parents passed away, they lost the only caretaker they’d ever had. But with the help of KenCrest’s Lifesharing program, their world changed for the better.
KenCrest’s Lifesharing program connects individuals with IDD to caring families who open their homes and hearts, offering not just shelter but a sense of belonging. For Amy and Missy, it meant finding a loving, supportive environment with Janeal and Jay Murrey, who were determined to help them thrive.
From the moment Janeal and Jay met Amy and Missy, their commitment was unwavering. "We felt we had something to offer," Janeal said. "We’re blessed to have the space and opportunity to welcome them into our home." After several meetings to ease the transition, Amy and Missy moved in, and the Murrays worked to make them feel as comfortable as possible. Slowly but surely, a strong bond formed, and what began as an act of kindness evolved into something much deeper—a family.
Almost immediately, Janeal began renovating the sisters’ bedrooms so they felt comfortable and welcomed in their new space. She replaced the flooring and bought new beds, dressers, small refrigerators, and TVs. Janeal made sure to ask the sisters what their favorite colors were—one sister loved red, and the other preferred blue. The sisters ' joy was evident when she surprised them with new comforters and toiletry bags in those colors. Amy’s smile widened as she marveled at her red-themed room, exclaiming, “How did you know?!”
KenCrest’s Lifesharing program is about much more than putting a roof over someone’s head—it’s about fostering independence, improving health, and ensuring that individuals with IDD live their fullest lives. Janeal, a certified nurse by training, made an enormous impact on Amy and Missy’s health. Before moving in, the sisters hadn’t seen a doctor in years and struggled with maintaining their medications. Under Janeal’s care, their health transformed. They lost weight, improved their A1C levels, and now take their medications regularly.
Beyond health improvements, Janeal’s support helped the sisters gain a sense of purpose. She connected Amy and Missy with Handi-Crafters, a job training program that gives individuals the skills needed to find meaningful employment. "They started a two-week program where they go through different trainings to gain skills they need to get a job," Janeal shared, proud of their progress.
The journey hasn’t always been easy. Having shared a room for most of their lives, Amy and Missy initially struggled with the idea of living separately in Janeal’s home. But with the Murreys’ constant support and encouragement, the sisters gradually adapted, overcoming their fears and embracing their new surroundings. "At first, I was nervous," Janeal admitted. "We had originally planned to take in just one person. But when we learned about the sisters and their bond, we knew we had to help keep them together."
Janeal’s dedication to Amy and Missy did not go unnoticed. For her outstanding commitment, she was nominated for the Excellence in Lifesharing Award and received a Community Champion Award. Her selflessness and dedication exemplify the profound impact Lifesharing can have on individuals with IDD, offering them a sense of security, empowerment, and, most importantly, a family.
KenCrest’s Lifesharing program continues to touch lives by creating inclusive, supportive homes for individuals with IDD. For Amy and Missy, Lifesharing has provided not just a home but a chance to live full, independent lives with the love and care of their new family. Janeal and Jay’s kindness and devotion show just how transformative the Lifesharing program can be. Amy and Missy formerly lived in a storm cloud, but now with their new Lifesharing family, the clouds have parted and they have a bright future ahead of them.
If Amy and Missy’s journey has inspired you, there are many ways to get involved with KenCrest’s Lifesharing program.
Whether through offering a home or donating, you can help transform lives and create a supportive community for those in need. Together, we can provide individuals with the opportunity to thrive.