How to Make a Difference: Insights from Katelin Medd - Blood Cancer United Visionary of the Year Candidate

In this special bonus episode of the Sparkle and Dreams podcast, Tim Lantz discusses the impactful Visionary of the Year campaign in partnership with Blood Cancer United. This episode highlights how individuals can contribute to cancer research and support those affected by blood cancers. Here’s what you can expect to learn about the campaign, its significance, and personal stories of resilience.

About Blood Cancer United
Blood Cancer United, formerly known as the Leukemia Lymphoma Society, is the largest organization focused on blood cancer research and advocacy. With over $2 billion invested in research since its inception, the organization aims to support patients and their families during their battles with blood cancer. 

The Visionary of the Year Campaign
The Visionary of the Year (VOY) campaign is an annual event where volunteers compete to raise funds for Blood Cancer United. This year, individuals like Katelin Medd are putting their hearts into the cause, creating fundraising teams and engaging their communities. In just 10 weeks, these visionaries work tirelessly to raise as much money as possible to support cancer research and patient advocacy.

The VOY campaign not only raises funds but also fosters a sense of community and collaboration among participants, as they cheer each other on in their fundraising efforts.

Katelin Medd: A Personal Journey
Katelin Medd, a middle school band teacher and one this year’s Visionary of the Year candidates, shares her personal story of resilience and advocacy. After losing a family member to blood cancer at a young age, Katelin faced her own battle with Hodgkin's lymphoma at just 22 years old. Despite the challenges, she emerged victorious and has since dedicated herself to supporting Blood Cancer United.

Katelin's journey from patient to advocate is inspiring. She began her involvement with Blood Cancer United in eighth grade and has remained committed to the cause ever since. Her experiences as a patient have fueled her passion for helping others navigate their own battles with cancer.

Personal stories like Katelin’s highlight the importance of advocacy and how individuals can use their experiences to inspire others and amplify a community's ability to make an impact.

The Role of Honored Heroes
The concept of Honored Heroes is vital to the Visionary of the Year campaign. Honored Heroes are individuals who have battled blood cancer and serve as symbols of hope and strength during fundraising events. Katelin had the honor of being an Honored Hero in a previous campaign, where she worked alongside a young girl to inspire and motivate the fundraising visionaries.

Katelin emphasizes how seeing someone who has survived cancer can motivate others to keep pushing through their challenges. It creates an environment of support and understanding, essential for those going through similar experiences.  The connection between Honored Heroes and fundraising visionaries creates a unique dynamic that encourages perseverance and community support.

Conclusion
The Visionary of the Year campaign offers a powerful platform for individuals to make a difference in the fight against blood cancer. Through personal stories, community involvement, and dedication, advocates like Katelin Medd are changing lives and inspiring hope.

Ways to Support Katelin's Campaign

If you’re inspired by Katelin’s journey and want to get involved, consider supporting her Visionary of the Year campaign (see opportunities below). Together, we can make a significant impact in the fight against blood cancer!

• Purchase any Starlette jewelry from now through May 30, 2026 using the link below and up to 30% of the value of your order will be donated to her campaign: https://shopstarlette.com/KatelinCrushedCancer

• Attend Katelin's fundraising event at Billy D's in Waukesha this Friday (4/17). Event details can be found here: Katelin Crushed Cancer at Billy D's! | Facebook

• Attend the Visionary Campaign Midpoint Celebration on April 21 at the Pfister Hotel in Milwaukee. Meet Katelin in person and order your drink from the night's "celebrity bartender" and podcast co-host, Tim Lantz. 100% of tips, 30% of Starlette Mystery Jewelry Bag sales, and 10% of bar sales go to support the campaign. This event is free to attend. Click the link below to register: 2026 Eastern WI Visionaries of the Year Midpoint RSVP

• To learn more about Katelin's campaign visit:

  Katelin's Visionaries of the Year Fundraiser

Frequently Asked Questions
What is Blood Cancer United?
Blood Cancer United is an organization dedicated to supporting blood cancer research and patient advocacy, formerly known as the Leukemia Lymphoma Society.

How can I get involved in the Visionary of the Year campaign?
You can participate by volunteering, fundraising, or donating to support the efforts of the visionaries.

What are Honored Heroes?
Honored Heroes are individuals who have battled blood cancer and serve as symbols of hope during fundraising events. They provide inspiration and motivation for fundraising visionaries.

How much has Blood Cancer United invested in research?
Since its inception, Blood Cancer United has invested over $2 billion in blood cancer research.

How can I support those affected by blood cancer?
You can support those affected by blood cancer through donations, advocacy, and participating in fundraising campaigns like the Visionary of the Year. (See "Ways to Support Katelin's Campaign" above)