Kara was a creative force who filled the world with music, laughter, and light. A talented writer, musician, and jewelry maker, she earned her degree in English-Creative Writing and Communication Studies from UMKC before dedicating her professional life to serving veterans as a grant writer for the VFW in Kansas City.
Kara embraced every moment with remarkable courage and joy – writing songs on her guitar, crafting beautiful jewelry, roller skating with friends, taking surfing lessons, and traveling solo on adventures that fed her independent spirit. She had an extraordinary gift for bringing people together, whether at live music venues, sporting events, or intimate gatherings where her quick wit and warm heart made everyone feel welcomed and loved.
While it was breast cancer that ultimately took Kara's life at age 30, she carried the gene for Gerstmann-Sträussler-Scheinker syndrome (GSS), the same rare prion disease that claimed the lives of her mother, Michelle, in 2013, and her grandmother before her. Despite knowing she carried this genetic burden, Kara faced life with incredible bravery, donating her time and energy to participating in prion disease research and studies, hoping to help find answers for future generations.
Kara understood firsthand the devastating impact of prion diseases on families. She witnessed her mother's battle with GSS and knew the importance of advancing research into these rare neurological conditions. Even while fighting her own battle with cancer, she remained committed to supporting the scientific community's efforts to understand and ultimately cure prion diseases.
By supporting the CJD Foundation in Kara's memory, you honor not just her life, but her dedication to helping others facing these devastating diseases. Your donation continues the fight she believed in so deeply – bringing hope and support to families affected by prion diseases as they navigate this hereditary burden.
Kara's father Tim, her extended family of aunts, uncles, and cousins, and her chosen family of dear friends invite you to celebrate her extraordinary life by supporting this cause that meant so much to her. Though her light left this world too soon, her legacy of creativity, kindness, and courage continues to inspire all who knew her.