Karen-Destun

DIRECTOR-AT-LARGE

My husband and I lost our daughter Lauren at the age of 14 in 2018 after a two year battle with Leukemia. While she was in remission at the time, it was septic shock that ultimately took her life, due to chemotherapy suppressing her immune system, and an opportunistic infection.

In 2019, along with two other mothers in the Waterloo Region of Southwestern Ontario, I co-founded the TCF Waterloo Region Chapter. I had sought out peer support on facebook, ultimately finding the TCF National Group. It was there that I met one other co-founder.

My step-daughter, Sarah died at the age of 34 in 2023 following a battle with breast cancer which metastasized to her liver. Grief is a constant companion that reminds me each day the importance of love, family and living.

The Compassionate Friends is an integral part of my path as a student of life. Knowing that the peer support is there is comforting, beneficial and important. My hope is to contribute positively to the TCF National future goals.

I currently work as an early childhood educator with the public school board, enjoying days with kindergarteners.

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