Courage Classic 2026!
Hi all! It’s Courage Classic time again, and I’m honored to once again ride in memory of Lylah Rae- a precious cardiac warrior whose life touched so many hearts. It was a privilege to be part of her care, and I’m grateful to carry her memory with me on every mile of this journey. Below is her story, shared in the words of her family.
"For 10 months and 1 day, our daughter Lylah Rae showed us what true strength looks like. She fought congenital heart disease with more courage than most people show in a lifetime. Every heartbeat, every smile, every moment she gave us was filled with love, bravery, and a warrior’s spirit. Though her tiny body grew tired, her strength never did. She will always be our hero, our fighter, and the greatest love we have ever known. Her journey changed us forever, and her beautiful heart will continue to live on in ours every single day. We love and miss you so much sunshine. -Mama,Daddy,and Sissy" .
As always, I'll also ride in deep gratitude for the exceptional cardiac specialists and Heart Institute nurses who cared for our own daughter, Whitney, and our entire family during a harrowing few years with an acquired heart condition. At age 3, she developed viral myocarditis from an H1N1 infection which resulted in a serious heart rhythm disorder (incessant ectopic atrial tachycardia). Her journey to a full recovery at age 6 required numerous hospitalizations and three specialized heart procedures by the amazing Electrophysiology team (shout out to Dr. Kathy Collins!)
One in four babies with critical congenital heart defects won’t see their first birthday. That’s why continued support for our Heart Institute is vital- to advance research and lifesaving care. Please consider donating to support my ride and our essential fundraising efforts. Your tax-deductible gift directly benefits children at the region’s only nonprofit pediatric hospital.
Thank you,
Kari
