Kenzie's Story

Life can change in the blink of an eye. At six years old, I was already a competitive swimmer, winning championships and dreaming of the Olympics. I loved the thrill of competition, the feeling of moving through the water, and the sense of possibility that every race brought. But everything changed one day at a swim meet. I suffered what appeared to be a stroke in the pool, and that moment marked the beginning of a new, unexpected journey.

After months of testing and countless doctor visits, my family received the news no one ever wants to hear: I was diagnosed with 11 inoperable brain tumors and mitochondrial disease. Suddenly, the things I loved—the pool, competing, being active—were no longer guaranteed. Some days were filled with weakness, pain, and uncertainty. Some days were filled with fear. But even in those darkest moments, I refused to let my medical conditions define me.

Being stuck inside for days on end was really hard. I’d drag myself to the couch or the bed, wishing I could just move like I used to. I’d stare at the walls, thinking about all the things I couldn’t do, and sometimes I felt like the world was moving on without me. But when I stepped outside, everything felt different. With the sun on my face and the breeze in my hair, it was like a spark came back into me. Being in God’s creation reminded me that He made everything for a purpose, and if He made the world with such intention, then He also had a plan for me, despite the challenges I was facing.

Those moments outside gave me hope, strength, and a sense of purpose that carried me through the bad days. I learned to trust in something bigger than myself, to find courage in prayer, and to believe that even in moments of struggle, purpose and hope were growing. When I stepped outside, I didn’t just feel freedom, but I alsoI felt closer to God. Being in nature reminded me that I was not alone, that His presence was everywhere, and that He was guiding me even in the hardest moments. Nature became my sanctuary, a place of healing, inspiration, and strength, where my faith and hope could grow alongside me.

Those lessons inspired Kenzie’s Krew: a faith-centered nonprofit giving children facing challenges—whether from illness, disability, or circumstance—the chance to step outside, explore, and discover their potential. Through faith and the outdoors, we want every child to know that they are capable, valued, and loved, and that even when life feels limiting, there is always a space where they can grow, thrive, and experience joy.