Kirsten McKay

Kirsten and Ryan McKay, middle-school sweethearts, have their hands full in Jefferson County, with a kind and curious eight-year-old, two-year-old toddler, and nine-month-old baby. Though the young couple has already known each other for ten years, they coyly share they’ll never tire of each other’s company.

Kirsten and Ryan are no strangers to sacrifice. Ryan served five years in the U.S. Army, including a 12-month deployment to Korea, as an enlisted Air Defense Battle Management System Operator. He was honorably discharged in 2024 with service-related injuries. Kirsten gracefully works two jobs at a convenience store and at-home nail salon to make ends meet. She is also taking the first steps in chasing her dreams to become a neurosurgeon. Even with her busy schedule, Kirsten’s favorite part of her day is coming home to her family running into her arms.

The McKay family previously received health insurance through TriCare, the U.S. Military’s health care program. However, after Ryan was honorably discharged, this support was pulled out from under them.

As a low-income family with no other access to insurance, Kirsten turned to the public safety net, TennCare Medicaid. For one year, Kirsten submitted application after application resulting in approval for her and her infant, but repeated denials for the rest of the family. Unsure how to navigate a convoluted and intimidating appeals process, Kirsten had no choice but to delay her children’s scheduled visits to their dentist and pediatrician. Kirsten was eventually referred to the Tennessee Justice Center by her son’s elementary school, and after just one month of working with TJC’s team, the entire family was approved for coverage.

Kirsten is a role model and a force for good. She encourages moms of all ages to ask for help when they need it, and she feels called to advocate for easier access to healthcare for kids and veterans alike: “Everyone should be able to access health insurance.” Especially veterans who sacrifice their lives for our country.

The Tennessee Justice Center is honored to recognize Kirsten McKay as a 2026 Mother of the Year for her dedication to her family and her advocacy for health care coverage for all, including our country’s service members.

Photo by Higher Images Photography

Published in 2026