Sparkle. That’s it. She just had it. In spades too. I was only privileged to know Karen for four years but from the moment I first saw that sassy streak of purple hair I knew that I was in the presence of someone who lived happily in her very own skin, who loved life, and who was just fine expressing herself even - as I would later learn - she would counsel you to do the same. Yep, that streak confirmed it all. Intriguing. Engaged. Smart. Animated. Joyous. What an honour to have known her, if only briefly. Andy and family, we stand with you in this loss. That matter-of-fact prairie wisdom of yours might be hard pressed just now, but know that your friends will love you through this time.