Photos by B. Photography
Hair and Makeup by Belle Touche Salon & Spa
Clothing by L Couture Boutique
Every year, 605 Magazine asks readers to nominate someone they believe is deserving of a day of pampering. Keep reading to learn about the two deserving ladies who are starting 2015 with a fresh look and a boost of confidence.
Beth & Kelsey’s Story
Beth Braa and Kelsey Keegan of Garretson are two peas in a pod. 14-year-old Kelsey, who was born with cerebral palsy, started living with her grandfather, Kevin, and Beth when she was eight months old. Kevin, Beth’s long-term boyfriend, died recently. Although Beth has been Kelsey’s primary caretaker for many years, she is now her only full-time parent.
“Kevin passed away in May and my world got a lot harder. Things we took for granted, we always did as a tag team. Time management has been the hardest thing to get a handle on. I have to do his part and my part,” Beth said, looking at Kelsey, “But we’re doing alright, aren’t we?”
Although there is no blood connection, the love between two is palpable. Beth works full-time at Brown and Saenger, a Sioux Falls-based office supply company. A retired friend stays with Kelsey for a few hours after school, making it possible for Beth to continue working, but there is little time for anything else. Like many parents of children with special needs, Beth’s devotion to Kelsey is all-consuming.
Beth was nominated for 605’s New Year’s makeover by coworker Jan Orton, who wrote to us, “Beth is a person who has the biggest heart. She never does for herself, she always does for others, especially Kelsey. She always puts herself last. I thought it was time she put herself first.”
We agreed with Jan, and decided to take it a step further. Kelsey would get a makeover, too. The two women spent a transformative evening at Belle Touche Salon & Spa for hair and makeup, then at L Couture Boutique to choose an outfit that would complete the look.
To see more of Beth and Kelsey’s makeover experience, pick up the the January issue of 605 Magazine or click here.
