Extreme thanks to Tallahassee and EMHE's Kadzis family

It was something watching Tallahassee on national TV during “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition” Sunday night. Dozens of my Facebook friends posted their emotions during the show, all speaking pretty much as one in being proud of this community and in awe of the courage of the Kadzis family.

In this one case, our community came together to support this family. What an incredible story of strength and values, by this family and our community.

George and Barbara Kadzis’ story is now well known in our community. They had seven children, including 16-year-old Chris and six adopted from Asia; five children had special needs.

They wanted a home that met their children’s needs, both for health and safety reasons. For a gallery of photos of the home click here.

George, who had worked as a dentist for the Department of Corrections, died of cancer three days after the house was completed.

It was all very moving. My wife, who knows what it is like to raise a large family (five children, including our special-needs child), said of Barbara Kadzis: “I don’t know how she does it.”

A few posters on our story chats and forums have said the same thing. Others have questioned why. Why adopt so many children. Why adopt from China. Why this and why that. Some have even disparaged George and Barbara, as if their private family decisions were a matter for public debate and agreement.

More than 700 people of this community volunteered in one way or another for this build. They did so because they wanted to. No one compelled them. No one begged them. They did it because they understand the Kadzis family’s love.

Many businesses supported the project, especially MyddletonParker Builders, which risked the most in tough financial times.

They understand the love, too.

In many ways, this community owes that family the greater thanks.

They allowed us to see their spirit, their love and their courage. They allowed us to make a gift to them that provided greater rewards for us. They provided an inspirational moment at a time when we all need greater inspiration.

They reminded us of who we are and what we stand for and that we cannot be defined by balance sheets or stock prices.

Rest in peace, George Kadzis. We've got it from here.

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