Raising Lupus Awareness with LaTonya Lipprand: A KC Cares Interview

May 31, 2024

LaTonya Lipprand

LaTonya Lipprand, founder of Marlene’s Kaleidoscope, joins KC Cares to discuss her journey with lupus, a chronic autoimmune disease. Diagnosed over 30 years ago, LaTonya faced numerous challenges, including medical misdiagnoses and the lack of local resources. Her determination to help others led her to establish Marlene’s Kaleidoscope, a nonprofit dedicated to raising lupus awareness, providing education, and advocating for better medical understanding of the disease. The organization offers support through various initiatives, including health fairs, educational programs, and direct patient advocacy. LaTonya’s story is a testament to the power of resilience and the impact one person can have in their community.

visit them here: https://www.mk4lupus.org/

 

5 Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is lupus and why is it difficult to diagnose?
Ans:- Lupus is a chronic autoimmune disease that can affect any part of the body. Its symptoms often mimic those of other diseases, making diagnosis challenging.

2. How did LaTonya Lipprand’s personal experience with lupus influence her advocacy work?
Ans:- LaTonya’s struggles with misdiagnosis and lack of support inspired her to create Marlene’s Kaleidoscope to help others facing similar challenges.

3. What services does Marlene’s Kaleidoscope provide to the community?
Ans:- The organization offers education, advocacy, and support initiatives, including health fairs, doctor’s visit assistance, and awareness campaigns.

4. Why is it important to raise awareness about lupus?
Ans:- Increased awareness helps improve diagnosis, treatment, and support for those affected by lupus, leading to better health outcomes and quality of life.

5. How can the public get involved with Marlene’s Kaleidoscope?
Ans:- People can volunteer, donate, or participate in events and programs organized by Marlene’s Kaleidoscope to support lupus awareness and advocacy efforts.

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Also available on

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KC Cares, Kansas City’s nonprofit voice, tells the stories of Kansas City nonprofits and connects them with the community.  

Produced by Charitable Communications 

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In partnership with: 

Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation

Take risks. Own success. Be Uncommon.

TW: @kauffmanfdn FB: @kauffmanfdn IG: @kauffmanfdn

Transcript:

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Stan Hays Operation BBQ Relief

Stan Hays Operation BBQ Relief

Nov 28, 2025 | , ,

Stan Hays shares how a single act of service after a tornado sparked a national nonprofit movement. Learn how Operation BBQ Relief feeds not just stomachs, but souls—during disaster and beyond.

Derrick Johnson Empowering Youth Through Education and Literacy

Derrick Johnson Empowering Youth Through Education and Literacy

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Derrick Johnson, the Kansas City Chiefs’ all-time leading tackler, has carried his drive from the field into philanthropy. In this KC Cares interview, he shares how his Defend the Dream Foundation transforms school libraries in low-income communities, giving kids access to age-appropriate books and bright, inviting spaces to read. He also discusses his new children’s book, Super DJ Saves Field Day, co-written with his wife, which encourages kids to discover their inner strength and values.

KC Healthy Kids: Pioneering Child Health and Advocacy in Kansas City

Apr 19, 2024

Danielle Robbins-Gregory | CEO

In this enlightening interview, Danielle Robbins-Gregory, CEO of KC Healthy Kids, shares insights into their comprehensive efforts to enhance child and family health in Kansas City. From advocating for policy reforms to providing direct services in schools and creating safe community spaces like Spiller Farm, KC Healthy Kids is at the forefront of addressing health disparities. Gain valuable perspectives on how they leverage community support, education, and policy advocacy to foster healthier environments.

 

What Nonprofit Questions are Answered?

  1. How does KC Healthy Kids improve children’s access to nutritious food?
    Ans: Danielle discusses their initiatives like community gardening and partnerships with schools to provide fresh produce and nutritional education.
  2. What role does policy advocacy play in KC Healthy Kids’ strategy?
    Ans:The organization actively engages in policy discussions and legislative changes to create healthier environments for children.
  3. How is KC Healthy Kids addressing mental health in children?
    Ans: They identify mental and developmental health issues in schools and link families to the necessary services, emphasizing early detection and support.
  4. What are some of the direct services KC Healthy Kids provides to the community?
    Ans: They offer case management, educational programs, and hands-on experiences like farming and cooking classes to teach children about food and health.
  5. How does the community benefit from Spiller Farm operated by KC Healthy Kids?
    Ans: Spiller Farm serves as a practical educational tool for children and a source of fresh produce distributed free to local families, schools, and care centers.

Find us on

Facebook:@ Kccaresradio

Twitter: @kccaresradio

Instagram: @Kccaresonline

•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

Also available on

Itunes || Spotify || Stitcher || Soundcloud || Youtube 

•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

KC Cares, Kansas City’s nonprofit voice, tells the stories of Kansas City nonprofits and connects them with the community.  

Produced by Charitable Communications 

•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

In partnership with: 

Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation

Take risks. Own success. Be Uncommon.

TW: @kauffmanfdn FB: @kauffmanfdn IG: @kauffmanfdn

Transcript:

Previous Episodes!

Stan Hays Operation BBQ Relief

Stan Hays Operation BBQ Relief

Nov 28, 2025 | , ,

Stan Hays shares how a single act of service after a tornado sparked a national nonprofit movement. Learn how Operation BBQ Relief feeds not just stomachs, but souls—during disaster and beyond.

Derrick Johnson Empowering Youth Through Education and Literacy

Derrick Johnson Empowering Youth Through Education and Literacy

Oct 31, 2025 | , , , ,

Derrick Johnson, the Kansas City Chiefs’ all-time leading tackler, has carried his drive from the field into philanthropy. In this KC Cares interview, he shares how his Defend the Dream Foundation transforms school libraries in low-income communities, giving kids access to age-appropriate books and bright, inviting spaces to read. He also discusses his new children’s book, Super DJ Saves Field Day, co-written with his wife, which encourages kids to discover their inner strength and values.