Testimonials
Pauline Menczer,
Former World Surf Champion
"I have got to know Karin very well through surfing over the last few years. I have seen her incredible passion for surfing, determination and positive attitude to tackle the extreme challenges thrown at her. Karins everyday life is a constant battle just to keep functioning. Despite her friends doing everything they can to help, everyday is a struggle to survive.“
Dr. Andrea Piga,
School Friend
"Karin and I have known each other since primary school. I remember very well that she had allergic reactions at an early age, such as severe itchy skin rashes on certain foods. At the beginning she didn’t really want to admit them and tried to ignore or cover up the symptoms. Later, on our travels together, as her allergies increased, it was very important to her that she was able to participate in all activities and was not a burden to anyone.“
Dr. Samuel Kim,
Lung Specialist St.Andrew‘s Hospital, Brisbane
"Unfortunately, there is no specific pharmacological treatment (for Karin). It is impossible to remove triggers from environment for atopy which is a multiple allergic trait in her immune dysfunction. Her condition is distinctively different from the typical disability such as quadriplegia, loss of limbs, loss of eye sight or vision“
Barbara Underwood, Occupational Health &
Rehabilitation Services
“The pitted keralolysas is a bacteria/ fungus that lives in her hands and her feet, it thrives in moist environments. The biggest problem with this condition is that whenever Karin touches something which is porous like paper, foam, plastic, wood etc then the spoors from the bacteria/fungus is able to start growing on these materials and consequently when she re-touches them she re-infects herself and becomes very ill. Karin has been able to problem solve as best as she can to have equipment which is made out of glass and stainless steel and has a cleaning regime to help manage her symptoms. But she is far from living an independent life free from pain.”
Serena Adams,
Surfschool Owner
"I have known Karin professionally (employee ) and personally for ten years.
She is one of the most giving and talented surf coaches I know. With her health being a constant battle she gets on with life to her fullest capacity and never complains.
Karin has balanced her health so focused and with total commitment. She deserves special care as this amazing women helps out so many others."
Lorraine Hunt,
Program Manager
National Outdoor Leadership School Aus.
" I worked with Karin over 10 years. Her role as an NOLS Instructor requires a high level of professionalism and self-care. The NOLS classroom is usually in remote wilderness settings. Instructors are expected to present university standard curriculum in Outdoor skills, Risk Management, Leadership, Communication, Leave no trace, Environmental Studies and Wilderness First Aid.
Many of Karin's colleagues including myself are amazed at how Karin manages her severe allergies and continued to fulfill her role to a high level of quality. How she continues to remain upbeat and positive despite her immense allergy challenges is an inspiration to us all."