Brave McCracken family of Kilmore strikes a chord

THE expression “What doesn’t kill you makes you stronger” could have been written for Kilmore mum Mandy McCracken.

Pride of Australia. Disabled mum Mandy McCracken is a survivor of streptococcal-A and had to have her lower arms and legs amputated at her East Kilmore home.

THE expression “What doesn’t kill you makes you stronger” could have been written for Kilmore mum Mandy McCracken.

A Strep A infection left her with a 1 per cent chance of survival, and although she pulled through, her lower arms and legs had to be amputated.

Nearly a year later, she continues to enjoy life with husband Rod and their three daughters; and has dubbed her prosthetic legs Stan Ding and Neil Ling.

There are some dark days, but Rod and Mandy’s determination to always find the funny side of things has won them admiration.

Mandy was chuffed to discover this week that she has been nominated for a Pride of Australia award in the Courage category.

“We’re trying to have as much fun as we can, and it seems our attitude has struck a chord,” she said.

“It helps us keep going.”

Mandy has also nominated Rod for an award in the Care and Compassion category.

Rod says caring for Mandy full-time is an “absolute privilege”.

“For me it’s an opportunity to give back to someone I love,” he said.

To nominate someone from your community go to heraldsun.com.au/prideofaustralia