John and Diana Matthies could not have children of their own, so they have helped raise other people’s kids. John and Diana have cared for more than 80 foster children in their Olathe, Kansas, home during the past 10 years.

Two of those children came into their home and never left---nine-year-old Kiki and 11-year-old Jamica.

“Jamica was one year old, and Kiki was one day old,” said Diana.  Even though the girls have lived with this stable two-parent family nearly their whole lives, like any children, they have challenges.

“One day we were at the KVC Outpatient Clinic, and Kiki was having a bad day,” said Diana.  Kiki climbed up onto a nine-foot retaining wall outside the clinic and would not come down.

Denise LeBow, a KVC outpatient therapist, saw what was happening and took charge.  “Denise totally defused the situation, and we have been seeing her ever since,” said John.  Sometimes LeBow provides family therapy at the couple’s home.

"I feel lucky to be working with the Matthies,” said LeBow.  “Diana and John insightfully know the kids need a safe place to land and parent with playfulness, acceptance, curiosity and empathy. 

Diana and John are so thankful that the KVC Outpatient Clinic is there to serve them.  They use it for everything from medication management for their girls’ ADHD to well checks. 

“They are nearby and always just a phone call away.  I don’t know what we’d do without them,” said Diana.