Lawrenceburg teacher diagnosed with breast cancer gets a surprise from students and staff

LAWRENCEBURG, Ky. (FOX 56) — For anyone diagnosed with breast cancer, treatments can be filled with uncertainty. An Anderson County art teacher is going through this while being embraced with love and support from all around.

Kim Paden is an art teacher at Anderson County Middle School. She was recently diagnosed with breast cancer and has her next chemo treatment scheduled for Friday. The day before, she came into work pleasantly surprised, as her students and co-workers donned pink shirts, pink balloons, and gifts for her.

“It’s been very overwhelming. I didn’t have a clue that anything was going on, but people, even before this, that knew about it have been very supportive and encouraging. These are amazing staff and students here that have given me this support,” Paden said.

The shirts had the message ‘Mustangs with Paden’ representing school spirit and their love for her. Students Sawyer Duvall and Elin Hupp said they’ve watched their teacher show them love time and time again. They both agreed that this was the perfect time to return the favor.

“I’ve had multiple people who have gone through chemo, and I want to give her support because I know it’s a bad process. I love you, Mrs. Paden,” Duvall said.

“I’m very thankful to be here and support her because I know it’s a tough thing to go through. It’s difficult to go through what she’s going through, and it’s a long, hard process,” Hupp added.

Even with the long, hard process, the gifts she got represent what she means to everyone at the school, and there was quite a bit to unpack.

Paden said the best gift of all is knowing that her staff and students are always thinking of her. Something she says will carry her through the challenges ahead.

“This is only my second year here at the middle school, and I love it dearly. Everyone is so supportive and helpful, always telling me, ‘Whatever you need, let us know; we’re right there for you. Thank you so much for all your love and support. It helps me stay positive to be around all this love and support that you gave me,” Paden said.