On this episode of A Shot of Inspiration, I talk to guest Melissa Keller, the founder and president of the Abigail E. Keller Foundation. We dive into the remarkable life of her daughter Abby, the unseen challenges faced by medically complex children, and Melissa’s vision for the Abbey House—Texas’s first pediatric hospice and respite home. Together, we explore what 24/7 caregiving truly looks like, why respite is essential for families, and how Melissa has transformed her grief into a mission that will impact thousands of children and caregivers across Texas.
3 Key Takeaways:
• Caring for medically complex children requires constant, skilled, around-the-clock support.
• Respite care is not a luxury—it’s a lifeline for families under relentless strain.
• One family’s story can inspire a movement that changes lives statewide.
About Melissa:
Melissa Keller founded the Abigail E. Keller Foundation in loving memory of her daughter Abbey, who was born with profound medical complexities and passed away in 2019 at age 11½. Inspired by Abbey’s life, Melissa advocates for medically fragile and terminally ill children and the families who care for them.
Before launching the foundation, Melissa worked in public service at both the federal and state levels, including roles with a U.S. Congressman and the Texas Railroad Commission. She was appointed by Governor Rick Perry to the Texas Education Agency’s Continuing Advisory Committee for Special Education, championing the needs of children with disabilities.
Today, she leads the effort to build Abbey House—Texas’s first pediatric respite and hospice home—providing critical support for families facing the hardest moments of their lives. Her mission is deeply personal, and everything she does honors Abbey’s legacy.
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