Lauren’s Gift is LKNConnect’s Outstanding Non-Profit for the month of April. —EH Stafford, Managing Editor
Lauren’s Gift: Lauren Marie Kimsey Foundation for Synovial Sarcoma, Inc.
The mission of The Lauren Marie Kimsey Foundation for Synovial Sarcoma, Inc. is to find a cure for synovial sarcoma cancer, while also improving the lives of patients and their families through research and medical advancements. Money raised from fundraisers goes towards research at Levine Cancer Institute in Charlotte, NC and also towards assisting patients with unexpected expenses while at Levine Cancer Institute for treatment for synovial sarcoma.
Lauren Marie Kimsey
Lauren Marie Kimsey was an active member of the Lake Norman community. She was born on January 23, 1977 and lived in Cornelius and Mooresville for almost 20 years. She was the Director of Marketing at Aquesta Bank in Cornelius, NC. Lauren also volunteered for many charities in the Charlotte area including GIGGLES, Rise Against Food Hunger, Ada Jenkins Center, Big Day at the Lake, among others. Lauren had a passion for helping others, whether it was philanthropic, or just supporting her family and friends whenever it was needed. She was involved in the Lake Norman Chamber of Commerce, North Mecklenburg Rotary Club and Executive Women of Lake Norman. In 2016, Lauren was nominated for the Top Woman award for the Lake Norman, Cabarrus and University City area.
Lauren’s story
In 2010 a small lump appeared on Lauren’s arm and was initially diagnosed as a pulled muscle. She went to physical therapy for several months and when that did not help, doctors started running tests. Lauren was later diagnosed with synovial sarcoma cancer. This was a shock to all, as Lauren was physically active, fit and seemed so healthy.
Her kindness never stopped
During Lauren’s battle with cancer she would make comfort baskets and take them to the chemo center when she wasn’t sick from chemo. Her kindness never stopped. Lauren lost her battle with synovial sarcoma cancer on September 10, 2016, just a few months shy of her 40th birthday. The Kimsey family formed The Lauren Marie Kimsey Foundation for Synovial Sarcoma, Inc in 2016, a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization, with hope that other families wouldn’t have to endure what they did.
About Synovial Sarcoma
Synovial sarcoma cancer is a rare and aggressive form of cancer which occurs primarily in the extremities of the arms or legs typically found in people between the ages of 15 and 40. This cancer is usually slow growing, so it can be years before a definitive diagnosis is made. The exact underlying cause is not understood so research is needed.
To donate, volunteer, or learn more check out the website at www.laurensgift.com.
Jennifer Grissom, Board Member
Lauren Marie Kimsey Foundation for Synovial Sarcoma, Inc.
Lauren’s Gift
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