On Monday, September 9th, at approximately 11:00 p.m., Marcus and Kristen Dowell experienced a parent’s worst nightmare: a knock on the door from an Oklahoma Highway Patrol officer delivering devastating news that their daughter, Kara, had been in a severe car accident. They were urged to get to OU Medical Center immediately.
Since that harrowing moment, the Dowells have been overwhelmed with an outpouring of support. “We have been blessed with many messages, calls, meals, donations, and most importantly prayers from friends, family, and even people we don’t know,” shared Kristen. She emphasized the unique strength of small communities during difficult times, adding, “There is no place like home! Marcus and I want everyone to know that we are so appreciative of all the love and support we have received during this difficult time! Please keep praying, Kara hears them and is going to make it home.”
Kara’s condition has shown signs of improvement. In a recent social media update, Kristen joyfully shared that Kara had opened her eyes, responded to some commands, and even managed to sit in a medical chair. The news has been met with relief and gratitude by the many people rallying behind the family.
Rachel Jones, owner of Wookies Tattoo and Body Piercing in Cordell and a lifelong friend of Kristen, has organized a raffle to support the family. “Kristen has been one of my best friends since birth... Marcus and [Kristen] need all the help, love, and support we can give,” said Rachel. The raffle offers a $300 gift certificate for any service or product at Wookies, and tickets are available for $10 each. All proceeds will go toward medical expenses. The raffle will conclude on Tuesday, October 15th, and tickets can be purchased in person at Wookies Tattoo and Body Piercing (210 E 1st St., Cordell) or via CashApp ($wookiestattoo) and PayPal (wookiestattoo@yahoo.com).
Kristen’s younger sisters have also organized ways for people to contribute to the upcoming bills and medical expenses. Taylor Harding explained, “You can send it to any of [Kristen’s sisters], and we will get the money to her. We didn’t ask permission from her because we knew that she would decline, but we want to help her as much as possible during this difficult time! If you feel led to donate, it’s greatly appreciated! We also understand if you aren’t in the position to donate. We would appreciate the prayers just as much!” Donations can be sent via Venmo, PayPal, or CashApp through the following channels:
•Amy (Venmo): @Matt-Schachle
•Madison (Venmo): @Madison-Porter-47, (PayPal): Madi_bball_15@hotmail.com
•Taylor (Venmo): @Taylor_Harding, (CashApp): $TJH17, (PayPal): Taylor.j.brown@okstate.edu Donations can also be sent directly to Kristen and Marcus through Venmo (@Kristen_Dowell) or CashApp ($kkdowell).
The Dowells are asking for continued prayers for Kara’s recovery.