New Year

Hello again, it's me Kara. I haven't written in awhile. I have started writing several times and seem to lose track of what I wanted to say. These last few years have made it difficult for the Kara Lynn Foundation's survival and success. There's been a lot of changes made to adjust to our new norm. We used to go into hospitals, schools and people's homes to work with our clients and their families. When I visited the hospitals I was allowed into people's lives. I was there for some of the most heartbreaking moments I have ever witnessed. There were also sometimes I was present for the best outcome a family could hope for. I was passionate about both. I loved knowing either way, I could and did help. When I visited schools I would give talks about bullying, acceptance and confidence. I LOVED that part. I felt like I really made a difference and also I really connected with some of the kids I met along the way, in fact some I still talk to today.

Due to COVID I have not been able to visit schools or hospitals. It took me a while to realize how heavy this was. I didn't realize I was depressed. I didn't know so much of my identity was wrapped up in these programs. We had to be innovative and come up with some new programs and ways of giving, however that first year to year and a half of shut downs and reduced capacity mandates, we weren't able to fundraise in the same way,or give even our new programs. Falling so behind and becoming so lost and consumed with stress and sadness took a toll. A big toll.

Finally we were able to fundraise more and give in ways we hadn't been able to. It's definitely not the same. I am not someone who does well with sudden change which if you know me, then you know that makes no sense. I am a spontaneous person, I love unplanned adventures, I only like routine to a small extent. So, why change is so hard for me, is confusing. I am so grateful that despite an uncomfortable period of change we have been able to stay afloat and continue to help, even in ways we never could before.

Recently we have had several opportunities to help many families. It's been so motivating and a great reminder as to why we do what we do. Most recently we helped a young woman named Gracie. We actually adopted her for Thanksgiving and then a Magical Experience, which by definition is a wish that is 2500.00 or over. Gracie wished for a brand new dream bedroom. It turned out beautifully. We worked very hard to make her Pinterest dream into a reality. We also were able to get manicures and pedicures, do some shopping, make up and hair and then a nice dinner to end the trip. This was an eye opener. Things sure have changed for us, but even still with this wish we were able to make the same or greater kind of difference as before. It was just as, if not more rewarding. I feel more motivated and I feel more confident in what we are doing. Gracie is an amazing soul, she was just what I needed to give myself another boost. I will always keep her in my life and hopefully I can help in other ways even on a personal level. She is my friend, she is stuck with me!

I have a lot of people to thank for their patience, hard work and motivation to keep going and keep helping us do what we do. I once again have some changes to make in 2022. I'm looking forward to it. One thing that will NEVER change is my motto, be kind, be true, be strong, be you. In my opinion it's the best way to be! <3 Kara