Katherine’s Story: From Uncertainty to Lifelong Care and Belonging at Bello Machre

Kim still remembers the day her daughter Katherine was born.

Katherine entered the world with white eyes due to congenital cataracts and significant vision challenges. “Katherine had her first corneal transplant at just three weeks old,” Kim recalls. “We thought her vision would be our only challenge, but around nine months, she started having seizures and was diagnosed with cerebral palsy.”

When Katherine was three, another life-changing moment came—Kim’s husband passed away.

“There were moments when I thought, I’m not going to make it,” Kim said. “It was a lot to juggle—the therapies, the doctor’s appointments, and raising my other two girls.”

Through it all, Kim found strength in her love for Katherine and her determination to give her the best possible life.

A Family’s Search for Care and Support

Over the years, Kim found support through a special school where Katherine grew and thrived. But when Katherine reached adulthood, Kim faced a new and uncertain question: What comes next?

“I visited every program I could find,” Kim said. “Every time, I left feeling sad and defeated. Then a friend mentioned Bello Machre. From the moment I visited, I just knew.”

What Kim discovered at Bello Machre was more than a service provider—it was a community. The residential group homes were warm and welcoming, filled with laughter, kindness, and genuine care.

A Place to Belong and Thrive

Today, Katherine lives in one of Bello Machre’s homes in Carroll County, Maryland, sharing life with three housemates and a caring team of staff who feel like family.

“She has her own adorable room, and she loves her housemates,” Kim shared. “One of them even told me, Katherine is my adopted sister. That made me so happy.”

Through Bello Machre’s Community Development Services Day Program, Katherine’s days are filled with joy and purpose—swimming at the Y, shopping, creating art, and joining in community events across Carroll County.

“Being at Bello Machre, Katherine has grown in confidence, and she’s happy,” Kim said. “When I visit, she’s excited to see me, and when I leave, she’s content. That’s how I know she feels at home.”

The Gift of Peace of Mind for Families

For Kim, the impact of Bello Machre reaches far beyond the daily routines and activities. It’s the peace of knowing her daughter is surrounded by love.

“As a mom, the biggest gift is peace of mind,” she said. “I know Katherine is loved, cared for, and happy. And when I’m gone, her sisters won’t have to worry. They know she’s in a loving home forever.”

Katherine’s story reflects the heart of Bello Machre’s mission—creating a lifetime of loving care, stability, and belonging.

Support Bello Machre and Help More Families Find Hope

Your generosity makes stories like Katherine’s possible across Maryland. Every gift helps provide lifelong care and opportunities for people with developmental disabilities to live full, joyful lives.

Please consider making a donation today to help more people like Katherine continue to live with love, dignity, and independence—and to give families like Kim’s the same peace of mind she has found.