Karen grew up in a family that lived in South Carolina, North Carolina, and Louisiana, before moving to Mississippi. She returned to Louisiana for college, married, and lived in Germany, Florida, and Illinois before she and her husband Don settled down in Mississippi in 1975. This is where they raised their son Paul. Karen began work as an English teacher and retired as the director of a rehabilitation center for blind adults. Adapting to the changes and challenges of blindness brought new experiences, including three wonderful dog guides, into her life. Each time she walks the beach and listens to the ebb and flow of the waves, she is reminded anew of God's abiding presence and is filled with wonder and gratitude for life and love.