The Next Chapter: Why I'm Running with the Kat Pack
Many of you know that I have lived with scleroderma for over 25 years. Throughout those two decades, I’ve navigated the highs and lows, the complications, and the quiet victories that come with a chronic, progressive disease.
Recently, my journey took a difficult turn. I received a new diagnosis involving impacts on my heart and lungs. It was news that reminded me that this disease is relentless—but it also reminded me that my fight has only just begun.
The Privilege of Expert Care
As I enter this new chapter, I am incredibly fortunate. I am under the care of the nation’s leading experts at the Cleveland Clinic. Having access to the latest medical technology, cutting-edge medicines, and a world-class team to manage this progression is a gift I don't take lightly.
However, my reality is not everyone's reality.
There is currently no cure for scleroderma. Many people facing a new diagnosis or a mid-battle complication do not have access to specialist experts. Even more staggering is the cost of care—the life-sustaining drugs required for this disease can average $175,000 annually.
My Goal: Removing the Obstacles
I am raising money because no one should have to fight for their life while simultaneously fighting for access to care or the ability to afford their medication. My goal is to raise awareness and funding so that those newly diagnosed won’t have to face the same obstacles I see so many others struggling with.
A Homecoming Mission
There is a strange, beautiful coincidence in this timing: this fundraising effort is taking place right in my hometown. These are my old "stomping grounds," and there is something incredibly meaningful about returning to my roots to fight for a future cure.
Will you help me reach my goal? I am aiming to raise $500, but I would love to hit $1,000 to truly make an impact for the National Scleroderma Foundation.
Whether it’s $5 or $50, your contribution helps provide support, education, and research for the "Kat Pack" and the thousands of others living with this disease.
Thank you for being part of my pack.
My Achievements
Set Up Fundraising Page
Raised $250
Raised $500
Raised $1,000
Raised $5,000
Raised $10,000
Updated Profile Pic
Added a Blog Post
Received 5 Donations
Reached Fundraising Goal
Increased Fundraising Goal
My Updates
Wow! Your generosity is unbelievable!
Saturday 16th May I can’t believe the response we have had with everyone’s donations! I started out hoping I would hit $500 and now we are almost $3500! This funding will help others like me to find hope that there may be a way to slow down the progression of the disease, or find the cure! ShareThank you to my Sponsors
$265.38
Ken And Jean Cation
$150
Statesman & Trade Delorenzo’s
$107.82
Mary Paumier
$107.82
Cathy Schumaker
Miss you!
$107.82
Todd Mork
Kathy - All the Mork's are supporting and rooting for you for awareness, funding and a cure! Todd, Kelly, Nic, Nathan and Ella
$107.82
Van Horn Family
$107.82
Dalton Robertson
$107.82
Seth And Linda Patton
Thinking of you!
$107.82
Walter E Visage
$107.82
Ellen Lackey
$107.82
Sally Ball
$107.82
Kristen Sween
$107.82
Sarah Sween
You go girl
$107.82
David Corob Jr
GO Team Kat
$107.82
June Fleeman
You are amazing.
$107.82
June Fleeman
Kathy, You are amazing.
$107.82
Jeffrey Held
$107.82
Vicki Corob
$107.82
Lynne & Gary Schulze
$107.82
Todd And Katie Belt
Happy to support, stay tough Kathy!!
$81.97
John And Jan
Way to go!!! Granville and beyond is with you every step of the way!
$56.62
Kathy Rentz
$55.66
Sandy Orth
Amazing that you are doing this! ❤️
$55.66
Dan Volkema
Thank you for work to help raise money for important research into a life threatening disease.
$55.66
Kris Miller
$55.66
Chaykowski Family
We are proud of you!
$55.66
Bryon And Laura
Happy to support you goal Kathy! Laura and I are thinking about you, John and family! 🙏❤️🙏
$55.66
Elaine Zawada
$55.66
Constance Jiran
$55.66
Michelle Eisenhower
$55.66
Roberto Merlos
May you all make a positive impact in whatever you set your mind to. 🙏
$55.66
Dawn Deaterla
$55.66
Anonymous
$55.66
John And Nancy Heck
We are cheering for you!❤️
$55.66
Mac And Sheila Kennedy
$50
Pamela Shuman
Fight like a girl!!!
$50
Paul & Joyce
Happy to donate to this cause on your behalf. God Bless.
$50
Steve Lindgren
$50
Karen Semer
$44.47
Steve Rentz
Good luck with this. Wish we could join you on the walk Steve and Wanda
$44.47
Christy Michalski
We keep fighting to find a cure for you Kathy!
$40
Kathy Rentz
$39.09
Chris & Jim Patin
$28.43
Jeff Hager
$28.43
John And Zoe Schroeder
Kick some ass!
$28.43
The Ganger’s.
Linda and I wish you the best.
$28.43
Natasha
Strong women raise strong women and it’s been a pleasure to work with and know Kaley!
$25
Campbell Weyland
$20
Nikita Bijlani
Sending you strength, resilience, and warm wishes. Your courage is truly inspiring, and I’m honored to support such an important cause.
Cathy, You are an inspiration to us all. Enjoy running with the Kat Pack!