One Mother’s Loss Ignites a Legacy of Hope and Joy

“It’s simply not the holidays without the Kourageous Kids’ party,” says Ruthie Coleman, a beloved Hosparus Health volunteer whose service spans nearly three decades. For Ruthie, who plays the role of Mrs. Claus, the annual event is more than a tradition – it’s a source of comfort and connection for families navigating unimaginable challenges. “It’s heartwarming because I truly understand what these families are enduring while caring for their precious children.” Ruthie’s journey is a testament to resilience and love.

When her daughter Natasha was just two years old, she was diagnosed with brain cancer and became the first patient in a pediatric hospice program in Lexington, Kentucky. “The support we received was extraordinary,” Ruthie recalls. “I promised myself that I would find a way to pay it forward.” Tragically, Natasha passed away just before her fourth birthday, but her legacy lives on. “Being her mom was the greatest honor,” Ruthie reflects. “Those four years mattered immensely – and they still do.”

A Tradition of Giving

Ruthie Coleman with daughters Rhonda and Natasha

Ruthie found a meaningful way to honor Natasha’s memory when her co-workers at The Budd Company were searching for a charity to support. She suggested Hosparus Health and proposed hosting a holiday party for the children in their palliative and hospice programs. “I remembered the aching desire to grant my child even a fleeting moment of joy, knowing she might not see another holiday season,” Ruthie recalls. Together, the group became Santa’s helpers – gathering wish lists, selecting gifts, and hosting the holiday celebration for nearly a decade.

Around the same time, NYX New Albany (previously Beach Mold & Tool), launched its own Kourageous Kids (KKids) tradition. Through their employee giving program, the Wishing Well, employees granted wishes for children, including Disney trips, a custom playhouse, and even a Christian concert at a local high school. As the KKids program grew, the 600 NYX employees focused their efforts on the annual holiday party.

A Magical 2024 Holiday Season

The 2024 Kourageous Kids holiday parties were nothing short of magical. What began with 15 children has since expanded to include three holiday parties, bringing smiles to 116 families across 41 counties in Southern Indiana and Kentucky.

In Bowling Green, children met local firefighters and explored a police cruiser, their faces lighting up with excitement. In Green River, families like the Howards created cherished memories, with all the siblings joining in on the fun. Seven-year-old Ashlyn radiated joy at the combined Louisville and Southern Indiana party as she created ornaments, shared her wishes with Santa, and even appeared on WHAS-TV.

Voices of Gratitude

Parents echoed the importance of this event in their children’s lives. Erin, whose son Mac is part of the KKids program, explained, “We come because Mac absolutely loves it. He connects with other kids like him, and the events are fantastic – face painting, personal time with Santa, and a chance to meet the devoted caregivers who support us year-round.”

Winnie Spencer, HR Manager at NYX, summed it up best: “Being a part of this event is a profoundly rewarding experience. Witnessing the joy on the children’s and families’ faces is something truly special. It’s not just what we offer the kids; it’s the immeasurable joy they bring into our lives.”

Turn Your Compassion into Action

If you’re moved to turn your compassion into action, contact Tawanda Owsley, SVP/Chief Development and Marketing Officer at towsley@hosparus.org, to explore partnership opportunities. For more on volunteering at Hosparus Health, like Ruthie, visit hosparushealth.org/volunteers or attend a new volunteer training session in your community.

Video and Photos from KKids Parties

Click the links below to see more moments of joy at our KKids parties:

• Indiana & Louisville KKids Party Photos
• Barren River KKids Party Photos
• Green River KKids Party Photos

You can also watch our parties’ highlight video below: