A superdad who has adopted six children with complex disabilities has been nominated for a national award.
37-year-old single father Ben Carpenter adopted his first child when he was just 21-years-old.
The Huddersfield dad has since dedicated his life to caring for his children, promoting adoption and helping prospective adoptive parents to consider opening up their homes to children who may have complex disabilities.
Yorkshire Live reports that Ben is a proud dad to Jack, 14, who has autism, Ruby, 11, who has complex needs, Lilly, nine, who is deaf, Joseph, six, who has down's syndrome and two year-old Louis, who has cerebral palsy and is blind.
The dad tragically lost his two-year-old son Teddy, who had a rare genetic disorder known as Cornelia de Lange syndrome, to sepsis in November 2019.
Ben had adopted Teddy in May of that year and has said that he will always consider himself to be a father of six children.
He now works tirelessly to raise awareness of sepsis and its devastating impact.
Ben cared for his children alone during the lockdowns imposed as a result of the coronavirus pandemic, ensuring their individual educational needs were met.
And he has now been shortlisted for the 'Family Carer of the Year' award by national disability charity, Sense.
Reacting to the nomination, Ben said: "I am absolutely blown away and honoured to be shortlisted. My children are my absolute world and I make it my duty to offer independence and equality.
"Each one of my children is thriving. I don't like blowing my own trumpet, however, I know that with my passion and dedication I have allowed them to be who they want to be, supporting their disabilities to reach their full potential.
"When my little boy suddenly and unexpectedly passed away, it was a massive shock to us all. I now do what I can to promote sepsis awareness and the devastating impact it can have."
Richard Kramer, chief executive of Sense, said: "Ben believes that no one, no matter how complex their disabilities, should be left out, isolated, or unable to fulfil their potential.
"The dedication he shows to his children, and support for each of their individual needs, is incredible to see. We are delighted to have Ben on our shortlist for 2021 Family Carer of the Year."
The Sense Awards recognise the outstanding achievements of people with complex disabilities, as well as the staff, carers, family members, volunteers and fundraisers who support them.
The winners will be announced on November 25.
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