Rev. James D. Conley, D.D., S.T.L. | Diocese of Lincoln website

A fourth-grader at St. Michael Grade School in Lincoln, Sutton Kelly, has found a unique way to express herself and give back to those who have supported her. Sutton, who was born with a rare neuromuscular disease called spinal muscular atrophy with respiratory distress type I, has never let her condition dampen her spirit or outlook.

Sutton's parents, Sasha and Mike, made the decision to send her to a Catholic school, St. Michael School, as they themselves had attended Catholic schools and wanted the same for their children. The school and its staff have made special accommodations to ensure Sutton's education is possible, including making their home and vehicle wheelchair accessible and constructing the school and church with features like elevators and wider doors.

"Sutton's presence in our school is a pure gift," said Father Kenneth Borowiak, the pastor of St. Michael Parish. "She has taught all of our students that unconditional love, empathy, helping others, and joy are true and invaluable gifts."

Despite the challenges her disease presents, Sutton has always been eager to interact with her classmates. She is described as inquisitive and participates in most class instructions and events. In 2019, the GoShoutLove organization and St. Michael student council helped provide Sutton with a platform swing on the playground so she could play alongside her peers.

Sutton's disease has caused her strength and stamina to diminish over time, but she continues to find ways to engage in activities she enjoys. With the help of Madonna Rehabilitation Hospital, Sutton now guides her wheelchair using a software program that tracks the motion of her eyes. The Knights of Columbus also invested in a mouth-operated switch drum for Sutton, allowing her to participate independently in class and music programs.

Recently, Sutton's parents encouraged her to explore a new hobby, and she found a passion for art. Using a Cricut machine to create stencils, Sutton drives her wheelchair over canvas or poster board, spreading and splattering paint to create unique pieces of what she calls "wheelchair art." Her parents have even turned her artwork into a business, creating a logo and a YouTube channel to document their family's journey.

But for Sutton, the artwork is not only a means of self-expression; it is also a way for her to give back. A portion of the profits from her art sales goes to Make a Wish Nebraska, the organization that granted Sutton a voice-activated theater when she was four years old.

"I love making wheelchair art because it is fun and I can give them to others," Sutton said.

Through her determination and creativity, Sutton Kelly is proving that physical limitations do not define a person's ability to make a positive impact on others. Her artwork serves as a reminder that even in the face of adversity, one can find joy, express themselves, and give back to the community.