In memory of Kristi, for the recovery of Chris

To those of you reading this, I am sharing tragic news with a broken heart; yet genuinely asking for your help with hope.

On Monday, August 7th, my baby sister Kristi "Babo" Collora Pearson called me on my way to work. She just wanted to chat about life. She shared details about her 30th birthday party she'd thrown the week before. Recalled that she'd had more visits from friends in the last 6 weeks than she could remember. Of course, she attributed that fact to having 23 puppies as the main attraction. Which immediately led to her beaming with pride, telling me how sweet her puppy photo shoot was, and how thrilled she was that a dear friend might be ready to adopt one of her babies. She was happy. Thriving. Beautiful as ever.

That same afternoon, we lost her.

Kristi and her partner, Chris Brown were struck by an oncoming vehicle that missed a red light. They were both immediately placed in critical care at the University of Iowa Hospital. Sadly, Kristi's injuries were too intense to overcome. Chris is still fighting for his recovery in the University's care.

A few things you should know about Babo:

Kristi was passionate about all critters, but her Cataheeler puppies were her pride and joy. She was a talented artist, a fiercely loyal friend, an excellent tree climber, an amazing gift giver, and an incredible caretaker.

Kristi was bright and bold and strong and determined and scrappy and accomplished and talented and beautiful and incisively witty. She had farm-girl knowledge applied with abundant creativity and a work ethic uncommonly rivaled. She deeply loved her partner, family, and friends and was exceptional at showing up to help whenever and wherever she was needed. Her spirit was a truly undimmable light.

We are beyond heartbroken to know that we will never again be gifted the joy of happy puppy phone calls, or something beautiful she created with her hands and her heart, or her warm greetings, witty insights, or powerful points of view. We're so very grateful for the 30 years she was gifted to us on this earth.

While we are grieving her loss, we are holding on to hope that we will see Chris through his long road of recovery ahead.

In loving memory of our beautiful sister, daughter, aunt, great-aunt, partner, and friend, please help us to support her beloved in his recovery as his medical bills are going to be a mountain to climb in their own right.

We're grateful for your love and support. -Theresa (Collora) Ory