Written by Kara Pierson Harper, Meals on Wheels Health & Wellness Program Coordinator

“I was born in the backseat of the car, 80 years ago…on Valentine’s Day.” If you have met Donna Kinney more than once, chances are you have heard her share this origin story. It's one of the first things she tells people, and it's clear it holds a deep significance for her. Curious, I asked, “Donna, why is this such an important part of your story?”

Her answer unfolded a tale of resilience and drama. Donna explained, on that Valentine’s Day, her mother did not have a phone. In a moment of urgency, she yelled out the window for help. A passerby ran to a nearby business to call Donna’s father who rushed home. But Donna was not about to wait for the hospital. On the way there, as her father slammed on the brakes, Donna made her grand entrance—both she and her mother landing on the floor of the car. 

“People say, ‘I am so tired of hearing that,’” Donna laughed. “But do you know, 80 years ago, what a miracle that was? They did not have the technology they have now. We were just very lucky.”

Listening to her story, I could not help but reflect on how her very existence seems like a miracle. Donna agreed and shared even more remarkable stories from her life. She survived an assault and robbery 24 years ago and is a proud three-time cancer survivor.

“I have a shirt that says, ‘Live life. This is not a dress rehearsal.’ And it is not,” she told me.

For Donna, living life fully means embracing simple joys. “I get up every morning at 7 a.m. to feed the birds. I speak to my neighbors in the morning. I watch the sun come up. It’s a great way to start my day—a reminder that ‘I got another day.’”

Donna's warmth and sense of community were on full display at our October City Stops lunch where she arrived dressed as a cheerful bumblebee. She brought Halloween cards and treat bags for everyone, including one for me to bring home to my husband.

Our conversation meandered through topics like religion, marriage, women’s empowerment and even which side we like to part our hair on. But what stood out most was how talking to Donna felt like an invitation—to be curious, to be yourself and to live life fully.

Meals on Wheels of Southwest OH & Northern KY offers a wide range of health and wellness events and activities, both virtual and in-person, for older adults and seniors. They are designed to foster community, create connections and keep seniors engaged with their peers and their own wellbeing. View more about this program and check out upcoming engagement opportunities here!

Written by Kara Pierson Harper, Meals on Wheels Health & Wellness Program Coordinator

Laurel glided into Panera, entering with ease. She wore a vibrant dress, topped off with a striking blue and yellow headwrap. Gold hoop earrings and rings added the perfect touch to her already stunning look. Laurel may be quiet, but her outfits always speak volumes.

I first met her back in June when she started attending the MOW Health & Wellness Programs. From the very beginning, she was always kind and excited about our programs, but I didn’t know much about her. So, I was excited to sit down with her and hear her story.

For Laurel, clothing has always been a form of self-expression. But fashion isn’t her only outlet. She’s explored various art forms—painting, sculpture, and even using her own hairstyles to create art. In fact, she was once featured in the Northside newspaper for crafting her own dreadlocks from purple wool! These days, her artistic passion lies in fiber arts. You can often find her crocheting socks, satchels, and the most adorable little animals

Her creativity extends beyond the tangible—Laurel has even dabbled in digital art, creating NFTs. When I asked how she got into that, she casually said, "I taught myself. I love learning. I once heard a quote that says, ‘Once you stop learning, you’re dead.’ And I live by that." It’s clear she means it. During our chat, a few times I used a word she wasn’t familiar with, and she would pause, ask for its meaning, and then look it up on her phone. Her curiosity is infectious.

But Laurel’s learning isn’t confined to books or digital spaces. She loves to learn through experiences. In her earlier years, that meant spending time in the mountains of New Mexico, living in an RV, and volunteering at a mission. Today, her adventures look a little different—she gets out and explores through our programs diving into art, exploring new restaurants, and getting movement through our exercise classes. Both chapters in her life reflect her deep desire for autonomy, exploration, and growth.

"I was always looking for God," she shared. Over the years, Laurel has explored different faiths, and she credits art, learning, and spirituality for helping her find peace, purpose, and belonging. She mentioned how much she enjoys our programs because they give her a chance to leave the house, connect with others, and feel a sense of community.

Thank you, Laurel, for sharing your story with us and, I’m grateful that our programs can play a role in your journey of lifelong learning, discovery, and expression.

Meals on Wheels of Southwest OH & Northern KY offers a wide range of health and wellness events and activities, both virtual and in-person, for older adults and seniors. They are designed to foster community, create connections and keep seniors engaged with their peers and their own wellbeing. View more about this program and check out upcoming engagement opportunities here!