(Feb 14, 2013 – Bryan, TX)  At only three years old, Mackenzie Carson has already been through four surgeries, attempting to prevent cancer due to a congenital nevus on her face.  But thanks to the hard work and dedication of her parents, she’s also about to get her own room.  And she wants it painted purple!

Mackenzie, her two older brothers and their parents, Melanie and Dominique, will receive the keys to their new Habitat for Humanity home this Saturday, Feb. 16th, along with their new next-door neighbors, the Cuellar Family.

Although not born with perfect health, Mackenzie was blessed with loving, devoted parents.  So for the last couple years, as Melanie and Dominique took Mackenzie to endless doctor appointments and hospital visits, they also partnered with Habitat for Humanity to build a new, safe, decent house.  A long process, it included 12 homeownership classes and 500 sweat equity hours (hours working on the construction of their home and others’).

Finally, Mackenzie is healthy and their new home is almost ready.

“They ask every day, ‘Are we moving in today?’” Melanie said of her three kids.  “We have a countdown now.”

The kids’ anticipation is easily matched by Melanie’s own.  “I’m very excited.  I’m like a kid before the first day of school.  I cannot wait!”

For Melanie, a medical biller with Pediatrics Medical Group, her new house in the Faith Subdivision off East MLK in Bryan represents a homecoming of sorts.  She lived in this area as a little girl, and even now her father lives nearby.  But as a little girl, her parents wouldn’t let her play outside.  The neighborhood was just too dangerous.

Melanie is coming back though, determined to not only provide a good home for her kids (where they can play outside), but also build a safe community for all of her neighbors in the surrounding area.

Please join us Saturday morning as we welcome Melanie, Mackenzie and their whole family home.

 

 

What:  Two Habitat for Humanity home dedications – Carson and Cuellar Families

Where: 816 Denise Drive in Bryan (between Military and Bradley off East MLK)

When:  February 16, 2013, at 9:00 a.m.