Meet Kenny Richards

Whiz Kid's name: Kenny Richards

Whiz Kid's age: 13

Whiz Kid's school: Hudtloff Middle School

Whiz Kid's accomplishment: Kenny, a seventh-grader, was selected to represent Washington and Oregon at the National Tourette Syndrome Association’s Youth Ambassador Leadership Conference last month in Washington, D.C. He met U.S. Rep. Adam Smith during the trip. Kenny, a Boy Scout, also has helped start a support group for children with Tourette’s in Pierce County.

Whiz Kid's key to awesomeness: Kenny’s faith has played a pivotal role in dealing with the challenges and triumphs that come with living with Tourette Syndrome, said his mother, Carla. He has developed wisdom beyond his years by using his diagnosis as a tool to show empathy and encouragement to other children with the neurological disorder. “Kenny provides these children with hope and friendship, reminding them that they are not alone,” she said.