Nine-year-old Kara is adventurous, spontaneous, and loves trying new things. So when she was asked to become part of a college cheer team, saying yes was a no-brainer.
Just the year before, Kara was diagnosed with Ewing sarcoma. She began chemo and radiation treatments, but the cancer took a toll on more than just Kara’s body. As her body worked hard to fight the disease, her brain struggled to see a future for herself.
When she first walked into Weber State cheer practice in the winter of 2024, she was stepping into something new—and Kara loves trying new things. It didn’t take long for her to feel right at home with her new teammates. But one teammate in particular quickly became a best friend: Johanna Simon.
Johanna, an international student from Germany, immediately embraced Kara as part of the team and part of her life. “From day one of Kara coming to practice, Johanna has embraced her wholeheartedly,” Kara’s mom, Heather, shared. “She is the first to check in when Kara has appointments and scans, and we are so grateful to have her show Kara so much love and care.”
Johanna’s support has gone far beyond the sidelines—and far beyond Kara. “She never leaves out my son either,” Heather said. “She loves being with our family and will happily play with Grayson too. She has cheered Kara on at her lacrosse games and been there for Kara’s special occasions too. We love Johanna!”
Kara and Johanna stand as an example of what makes Team IMPACT friendships so special. They grow beyond the sport to become lifelong connections built on consistency, compassion, and care.
For Kara, having Johanna in her corner means having someone who celebrates every victory, offers support through every challenge, and reminds her she is never alone. And for Johanna, being a teammate means more than wearing the same uniform—it means always showing up.
For Heather, Kara’s friendship with Johanna and the Weber State cheer team helped bring her daughter back. “This program is the best thing a child can have.”
