Although we were willing to make the trip to Houston, we didn't feel qualified to help very much. We had, however, seen a young woman on a telethon who had been born with no arms and lived in Stephenville.
Bill was able to locate her and, although she had never met us and knew nothing about us, she readily agreed to the trip to Houston. The fact that a child needed her help was enough -- especially a child with the almost the same limitations and potential as herself. This was our introduction to Stacey McInroe Conner.
Since that day, two and a half years ago, both of us have been completely captivated by this vibrant, energetic, busy and oh-so-happy young lady, who just happened to be missing a couple of extremities that most people consider essential.
Those of us who knew Stacey realize that her lack of arms was a minor inconvenience that she seldom even thought about. Armless is one of the things she was. She was also an animal lover -- especially horses and dogs, most particularly her Australian Blue Heeler, Honey.
She was a student at Tarleton State University. She was a woman in love and engaged to marry Russell Scarborough. She was into LIFE--ready for new experiences and new challenges. This past year she went sky diving and snow skiing for the first time, and she was eager to do both again.
Another thing about Stacey was her commitment to children who are amputees. Of course, she related most to those with no arms like herself, but she was ready to "go anywhere, at anytime and do anything to help a child." In fact, we first learned of Stacey's death by calling that day to ask her to contact a child in Illinois. Now that Stacey is no longer here to fulfill that commitment, others of us must step in and do so in memory of her. She and her example must not be forgotten.
(Click here to see Stacey on video; click here to see Bill Baughn's tribute to Stacey)
Comments about this tribute
What isn't really said here but was known to those for whom the articles were originally written, is that Bill came up with a couple of simple gadgets that allowed Stacey to be independant.
Also the reason neither of us felt qualified to help the girl in Houston is the fact that I am a bilateral below elbow amputee --- much less "handicapped" than Stacey.
Joyce Baughn
Thanks for the additional information Joyce, and for allowing me to publish the tributes from you and Bill, who i know you have sadly lost to cancer since they were first written. I'm sure Stacey appreciated your friendship and support, and everything the both of you did for her. I would love to know your story one day too, if ever you feel you can share it... Susan