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Karen’s Story |
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Karen Gilbert’s road has been more like a dare-devil roller coaster ride. Often when she shares her story, people can’t believe it could be packed into thirty six years. Although challenging and at times tragic, she is grateful for the way the journey has shaped her.
When Karen was just one month old, her mother was diagnosed with cancer. In 1971 treatment for Hodgkin’s Lymphoma was not advanced. Her mother lost her battle with the disease but won freedom from pain after five years. Her father, while still grieving her death, continued the challenge to raise his two girls. Two years later, during the anniversary week of his wife’s loss, both his emotional and physical heart gave out. At age seven, Karen was an orphan. Stick-tuitive Lessons in resiliency and adaptability came early and often. Throughout life, Karen has continued to bounce back when faced with challenges. Following her father’s death, Karen and her older sister were raised by their grandparents. Thankfully, they provided a loving and stable environment and continued the faith based foundation established by Karen’s parents. The strong connection with her grandparents has allowed Karen to bridge generations and understand the needs and challenges of those in their later years. Values such as dedication, integrity and a concept fondly known in the family as “stick-tuitive-ness” remain at the core of her personal and professional philosophy. As life tends to do, it gave Karen a few more loop-de-loops and hairpin turns. She was derailed a few times when divorce, layoffs, and bankruptcy came her way.
Thankful Although by no means easy, she refers to these events as defining moments versus tragedies, using the experiences as opportunities to connect with people. “I am thankful for every moment in my life, even the toughest times. They help me identify with a wide range of people who have gone, or are going, through a variety of transitions. It is an honor and joy for me to provide direction, guidance and counsel for them on their journey.” Karen credits God as being her faithful source of direction and guidance.
Campbellsville University provided both an education and a partner. Karen holds a Bachelor’s degree in Pastoral Ministries from Campbellsville University and is pursuing her Master’s degree part time. She met her husband Mike while in the same degree program and considers him a priceless and precious gift. To Karen, he is a symbol of hope in bodily form. Together they enjoy nature, photo safari’s, gardening, quirky movies and time spent with their dog “Moose” and cat “Earl”. Resilient Karen’s eclectic background includes training and organizational development, marketing, event planning, health insurance, interior design and Christian ministry. She has worked both for and with Fortune 500 companies. Whatever bends are on your life road, Karen will be by your side for all your real estate needs. A teacher at heart, she is passionate about educating you on the process and equipping you with resources all along the way. Her affinity for building relationships constantly propels her to expand her circles and networking potential. Design and creative marketing are fun for Karen as she constantly creates new and innovative ways of connecting. Although no stranger to life’s twists and turns, Karen Gilbert is living proof that there is hope around the next corner.
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© Karen Gilbert Homes 2008 Exit Realty Crutcher |
