A Modbury Heights retiree who cared for more than 90 foster babies while raising her own four children has been recognised with the Inspiring South Australian Women's Award for 2021.
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Dawn Jennings first opened her doors to children in need in 1994 after she was inspired by a friend who was fostering.
Dawn was humbled by the award.
"When I initially got the phone call, I said I couldn't accept it," Dawn told The Senior.
"I know there are so many others out there that do more than what I've done. I'm just a regular person."
Dawn said she knew many people who fostered family units, teenagers, children with chronic health conditions, and who had signed up to be permanent families for children.
"I know one foster mum with 10 kids - five of her own and five fosters. They are the people who have made a lifetime commitment."
Dawn retired in June last year after her last baby went to their long-term family.
Over the years, Dawn looked after babies, usually under 12 months, from anywhere from a couple of days to a year, with the average stay between 10-12 months.
She said she became very attached to the children in her care.
"I'd always cope when a baby leaves by washing everything and getting ready for the next phone call, but this was a bit different.
"While they are with me, they are my baby. The babies don't know that I'm not mum."
While she said there were many challenges involved, she got to experience the magical moments of raising babies, such as first smiles and seeing them roll for the first time, several times over.
"The biggest reward is watching these babies grow and develop into little people, especially when you have a baby who isn't expected to reach milestones."
Dawn was nominated for the award by her friend Pam Griffin, who described the devoted carer as a quiet achiever.
"Most mothers look back on the first few months and remember how tiring they were - Dawn did the first three months 91 times," Pam said in the nomination.
