Mary Beth Thomson

I am deeply honored to serve as Secretary of The Karla Kay Cancer Screening Fund, a cause that pays tribute to the life and legacy of one of my dearest friends, Karla. For over 30 years, Karla was more than a friend—she was a true Angel, a source of love, laughter, and endless inspiration. Her vibrant spirit and boundless kindness left an indelible mark on everyone she met.

Karla faced her battle with a rare and aggressive Stage 4 Appendix Cancer with incredible courage. Reflecting on her journey, I often wonder how early cancer screening might have altered her story. This question fuels my commitment to this mission.

Together with her remarkable family—her loving husband Mark, who supported her every need, her devoted daughters who stood steadfastly by her side, and her brother Russ, a nationally renowned talk show host—along with a close-knit group of friends who cherished her deeply, we are determined to honor Karla’s legacy. Through our efforts, we aim to raise funds to make cancer screenings accessible for all, providing hope and potentially life-saving interventions.

Serving on this board allows me to channel my love for Karla into action, turning grief into purpose. I am privileged to join this extraordinary group of people to celebrate Karla’s legacy and ensure her story inspires life-changing initiatives.

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