May 2019 – Kelsey's Kaleidoscope

The Rear View

As the school year comes to a close, our family has had time to reflect on the year we worked through and locate the bright side of it all.

Our family endured two medication changes, a biopsy, a concussion, 64 doctor views on the biopsy, months of steroids, marks like a cheetah for months, a mysterious eye funk, new scars inside and out, a mangled foot, an ambulance ride in a different state, and too many “I’m not sure” or “I do not knows” responses.

We close the year by putting those in the rear view. We choose to move forward and not look back. Though the moments and challenges brought us down at times, the bright side keeps us moving forward.

Our successes included Superintendent’s List, a communion, a character award, new friendships, a new instrument, a new sport, a new club, a gala, a golf outing, and the publication of a book. We choose to celebrate the moments that made us proud and joyful. We choose to recall the challenges to remind us to grow and endure.

The Rear View is a perfect lens to see shortcomings, learn from failures, and reflect on success.

The rain comes and goes, but the rainbows make it all worth it.

Reflect. Reset. Leave it in the Rear View.

Kelsey Hates the Needle

Author Mary Wagner & Illustrator Krystal Almora @krystalalmora release their first book, a picture book designed to help children ease their fears about vaccines, medications, and injections of any kind. Please consider purchasing a book. All proceeds benefit Kelsey’s Kaleidoscope, Inc.

Amazon

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@kelseys_kaleidoscope #chasingthecure #newviewforpan

Blessed

Balance and blessings can be hard to see when life gets in the way.

Celebrating the moments and rejoicing in gratitude are daily goals and often struggles.

Saturday was a gift and a true celebration of family, love, and the blessings we have together.

A dress was built from two matriarchs, a headpiece worn decades ago was transformed into something beautifully old and magnificently new, and love was a part of every turn.

This day was a joyous day.

May blessings surround you today in reflection.

Perseverance

Today’s words come from a community that values character and recognized Kelsey for displaying perseverance. Her teacher’s touching words speak volumes. Below are the words that were shared about Kelsey and her exemplary character.

“Perseverance (noun), continued effort to do or achieve something despite difficulties, failure, or opposition. When asked what perseverance meant to Kelsey, she stated, “When you try and try even though it doesn’t go your way!” I couldn’t agree more. Kelsey is a perfect example of a student who demonstrates perseverance inside and outside of the classroom.

As she enters the classroom each day with a smile as bright as the sun, and a readiness to learn, you’d never know, but Kelsey fights a rare autoimmune disease called PAN. PAN is a rare a potentially fatal disease that affects small and medium arteries causing injury to organs and unfortunately, does not have a cure at this time.

Despite difficult days, physically, mentally, and emotionally, Kelsey never gives up. When a challenge arises in the classroom, Kelsey faces it with confidence, patience, persistence, perseverance, and determination.

She is a thoughtful friend and wonderful role model for her peers. She goes out of her way to encourage others, and shows outstanding leadership skills in the classroom.

Kelsey is always willing to lend a helping hand. Kelsey, I cannot think of someone who could be more deserving of this award than you. You’re too positive to be doubtful, too optimistic to be fearful, and too determined to be defeated. You are one of the most courageous young ladies I’ve ever met. Never give up! It is my honor to nominate you, Kelsey, for the trait of perseverance.”

Golfing Glory

Monday, April 29, 2019 was a beautiful day. Crisp air made the red BMW at hole 7 sparkle as it awaited a hole-in-one that never came. It sure was fun trying.

Supporters drove as far as three states to attend our inaugural golf outing. Tee markers showed the generosity and laughter was heard along the green.

The love and dedication of our organization and those who support our efforts is overwhelming to witness.

Monday was no exception.

While drinks flowed and friendship was visible on every cart, our hearts are heavy with the mission we seek to attain.

Kelsey developed a new limp over the weekend to remind us once more of our why.

We are constantly reminded of our why and thank those of you who care about it, too.

Our gratitude goes out to all who helped us make our inaugural event one we will continue as an annual outing.