Double Amputee Coming to Keith Valley as Part of Bullying Prevention Effort

A double amputee, author and inspirational speaker will be coming to Keith Valley Middle School in Horsham during the first week of school as part of a bullying prevention initiative.

Spencer West, a double-amputee, author of “Standing Tall: My Journey” and star of the documentary “Redefine Possible, The Story of Spencer West,” will speak at the school on Sept. 5.

To help create an environment that fosters positive interpersonal relationships, members of the Keith Valley faculty and administration developed a grass roots bullying prevention initiative called KV K’NEX in 2010. The assembly, presented by the Hatboro-Horsham Educational Foundation, will kick off the year-long program.

West was born with sacral agenesis, a genetic disorder that left his lower spine underdeveloped and his legs permanently crossed. At the age of three, his legs were removed below the knees. Two years later, at the age of five, they were amputated to below his pelvis to encourage mobility using his hands.

In 2012, at the age of 31, West and two friends climbed Mt. Kilimanjaro, one of the world’s highest peaks and raised over $500,000 for clean water projects. West now travels the globe sharing his unique perspective while encouraging a world of tolerance and acceptance.

“The HHEF is extremely proud to introduce Spencer West to the Hatboro-Horsham middle school students and teachers,” said Nancy DeLucia, Executive Director, Hatboro-Horsham Educational Foundation. “Mr. West has redefined what is possible and inspires students by sharing his powerful experiences of overcoming challenges. The HHEF looks forward to West’s visit, we know he will make on these impressionable students.”

Christine Jenkins, instructional coach at Hatboro-Horsham, is a member of the KV K’NEX team. “Our program ensures that that best practices in bullying prevention, character education, restorative practices and student leadership are incorporated into our learning activities,” explained Mrs. Jenkins. “We are grateful for the support of HHEF in bringing Spencer West to our school. His program aligns perfectly with our mission which is to help all students feel safe, respected and significant.”