Faith, family and helping others are the three components that keep Marcia “Nikki” McHenry grounded. Bible verses, family photos and awards adorn the walls of her three-bedroom house.
Nikki, 33, of Berea, is a learning- and behavior-disabilities paraeducator at Berea Community Middle/High School. She helps kids with learning disabilities, including ADHD, developmental delays and emotional and behavioral issues.
“It’s like missionary work,” she says. “It’s rewarding. I don’t get paid a lot, but that’s not why I do it.”
Nikki has two adopted sons, Zion, 11, and Egypt Waller, 10, who have been in and out of her care for 11 years. She gained total custody because their biological mother was a drug addict. The decision to take on the role of a single mother, Nikki says, was one of the best choices she could have made.
“Everybody says the boys are a blessing to me,” she says. “If it weren’t for them, I wouldn’t be here.”
Nikki also fosters kids in her home. Every morning, the family gathers in the hallway to say a quick prayer before heading to school.
“I’m not perfect. I’m not an angel,” she says. “My reward will be in heaven. . . . So I have a bad day, but I pick myself up. No test, no testimony.”
In addition, Nikki has sarcoidosis, a chronic disease that has weakened her respiratory system but not her spirit. The medicine for her disease prevented her from teaching for a short time, and she decided to wean herself off it because she’s passionate about helping her students.
“I’m open with them. I was mad at the world when I was their age. Just knowing that even though I am going through this now, I can help someone,” she says, “is good for the future.”
