Purpose is Power
$5,175 of $10,000
I am the proud mom of two beautiful boys, Ethan and Owen. In 2021 Ethan was diagnosed with Autism and so began the process of learning, understanding, and adapting to life with a child whose needs are different from his peers. For sometime, Ethan had struggled in social situations–we’d mostly noted that he was shy, but his shyness was at times paralyzing. It hurt to watch him not be able to enjoy events and places that other children navigated with ease and joy. The impact of this was pervasive; no person in our family was unaffected. If Ethan got anxious or uncomfortable, so did we. Oftentimes we would make changes (bringing two cars to parties, leaving playgrounds early if Ethan was overwhelmed) that directly impacted Owen’s experience and that caused him to miss opportunities that he’d otherwise enjoy. In these moments, it felt like choosing sides–picking one child’s needs and preferences over the others. The guilt of making these decisions was crushing and cruel.
One day I bought a family membership to a local zoo. As we entered I saw a sign indicating that the zoo was sensory friendly and made note to read more about the organization designated on the sign–KultureCity. As I began to scroll through the website I was awestruck. I downloaded the app and we used it that week, over spring break. I shared the social stories found on the app with both boys as we visited several places that were KC certified. Both children liked looking at the pictures and knowing what was to be expected, I felt less anxious because I knew we were prepared. More importantly, there were spaces and tools for us to use if needed; we could do things differently, rather than being denied.
I had been an avid runner for a while before kids, before an Autism diagnosis, before I knew about KultureCity. I have turned to running as an outlet for stress many times in my life and I’m grateful for all that running has given me (health, friendship, and sense of accomplishment). In 2020 I decided that I’d begin working towards running a marathon in all 50 states. While it is a long term goal, I am happy to partner with KCfit along the way. This year I will be running the Chicago Marathon, Antelope Canyon 50 Miler (my first 50), The Flying Pig Marathon and finally New York City 26.2. My goal is to not only fundraise for sensory acceptance and adaptive programs but to share my experience in hopes of helping others. Purpose is powerful and I am excited to run for an organization that I feel deeply connected to.
capecourtney@yahoo.com
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$5,175 of $10,000
DonateCreated October 3rd, 2022
Campaign
Recent Donations
Mario Cobo
September 22nd, 2023
$25.00
Message:
You are awesome amiga!!!!
Vernon Wright
September 19th, 2023
$100.00
Message:
You are amazing. Happy to support you in this great. Good luck!!!
Ginny Luther
September 16th, 2023
$50.00
Message:
Go Courney!
Anonymous
September 12th, 2023
$1,240.00
Message:
KultureCity ❤️
Anonymous
August 8th, 2023
$600.00
Message:
More money more miles!
Mark & Deborah Ryberg
July 28th, 2023
$150.00
Message:
To an amazing Mom who puts our beautiful grandchildren, Ethan and Owen,
ahead of everything in life!!!!
Glenn Ryberg
July 25th, 2023
$100.00
Message:
I hope you meet your goal Courtney
Sam Kaplan
July 19th, 2023
$100.00
Message:
Thanks for doing this, Courtney.
Uncle Billy
July 14th, 2023
$100.00
Message:
Best wishes from Eastham, Ma
Christine Newman
July 14th, 2023
$50.00
Message:
You are amazing, my birthday buddy 😉 and Owen are blessed you are their mama ❤️
Pamela Evans
July 14th, 2023
$25.00
Message:
Great organization, amazing mom.
Mary Mauck
July 14th, 2023
$50.00
Message:
Keep doing great work! You’re amazing and your kiddos are lucky to have you ❤️
Ayelin Marion
July 14th, 2023
$25.00
Message:
We love you guys!
Courtney Ryberg
July 13th, 2023
$25.00
Message:
Love you Courtney and Ethan❤️❤️
Cale and Knikie Simmons
July 13th, 2023
$50.00
Message:
Much love from the Simmons!
Suzanne Thomas
July 13th, 2023
$100.00
Message:
I wish Kulture City had been around forty years ago.
Harriett and Jon Blakeslee
July 13th, 2023
$50.00
Message:
We love you ❤️
David Foley
July 13th, 2023
$150.00
Message:
Good luck!
Diane Knight
July 13th, 2023
$100.00
Message:
Can't wait to cheer you on!
Krista Mueller
May 7th, 2023
$25.00
Message:
I’m so proud of you! Your boys are lucky to have such a determined and dedicated mama! Love you and support you!
Hayhurst Family
May 6th, 2023
$100.00
Message:
What an amazing cause that benefits so many kiddos and families. Happy to help!
Anonymous
May 6th, 2023
$100.00
Message:
I'm so proud of you for choosing to bring out awareness on behalf or your sweet boy, and those who struggle with sensory issues. My walk with my Lily and her struggles with external stimulation was a lonely journey at times, due to lack of awareness and inclusion, when she was growing up. Keep fighting the good fight!! You're making a difference. Go run your heart and soul out!!
tom Moriarty
May 6th, 2023
$100.00
Message:
Good Luck Courtney
Kurt Kahlson
May 1st, 2023
$50.00
Message:
Happy happy birthday my friend. Love you!
Anonymous
May 1st, 2023
$500.00
Message:
This is from my coworker!
Hannah Favier
May 1st, 2023
$15.00
Message:
Happy Birthday!
Barbara Gendron
May 1st, 2023
$25.00
Message:
I love your dedication to this important cause. I've never seen you do anything halfway. You always put your heart into your family and your goals.
Mike Canan
May 1st, 2023
$50.00
Message:
Happy to support you and your family and this incredible cause.
Anonymous
April 30th, 2023
$500.00
Message:
Happy Birthday
Sharon Erwin
October 10th, 2022
$25.00
Message:
"Purpose is powerful"~indeed it is, proud of you!!
Mitzi Gilooly
October 10th, 2022
$100.00
Message:
Thank you so much for spreading the word and educating people about sensory processing!! Have an amazing run!!!
Ethan
October 10th, 2022
$100.00
Message:
You rock Courtney! Inspiration for all. I’m with ya.
Anonymous
October 8th, 2022
$100.00
Message:
Go
