Kari Lau and her husband Nate have always counted their blessings. They have a precious 5-year-old daughter, Harper, who has made their world complete, great families, and jobs they like. In fact, Kari loves teaching, and her kiddos adore her. Another great blessing was the fact that when Kari was diagnosed with breast cancer four years ago, she fought the disease and won — big cause for celebration. Now this blessed and brave mom is staring down this beast of a disease once again. Thank goodness she doesn’t have to do it alone.

Kari and Nate got news last July that her cancer had returned and, in its 4th stage, was invasive. There was no time to waste. Chemo and radiation treatments began on Kari’s brain, spine, hips, and eye. Like any good mom and teacher, Kari has always tried to set the best possible example for the children in her life, showing them that how you respond to what happens to you is everything. It was the beginning of the school year, and Kari wanted to provide the continuity to the kids that she feels is so important, so she continued to work through ongoing treatments. Her friend Heather has to remind Kari frequently to put on her own oxygen mask, so to speak, as this is not the time to care for everyone else.

Soft-hearted and tough as nails

In fact, Heather tells us that Kari is caring, helpful, and so empathetic to everyone around her, the quintessential wife, friend, daughter, teacher, caregiver, and mom. When it comes to herself, though, Kari is T-O-U-G-H. Treatment and testing is seemingly endless, but Kari perseveres. The mounting debt alone (cancer treatment times two) is enough to cause one to cower, but Kari remains strong and resilient. Cancer may be tough, but Kari Lau is tougher, barely taking time off outside of treatments.

Kari is a present mom and wife, too. If anything, her illness has brought her closer to Nate and Harper. The three of them enjoy Husker sports, and attending volleyball games is a favorite pastime. The zoo is a favorite haunt, too. Really, anywhere is great as long as they’re together.

A bright beacon of joy

Heather Triggs is a huge fan of this spunky mom whose love and devotion for her family and her classroom shine so brightly, with the courage and determination to continue spreading joy in spite of her circumstances. UBT was touched by Kari’s indomitable spirit as well, and together with our amazing partners, we set out to make some holiday magic happen for Kari and her family. 

Spreading holiday love

The Lau family will enjoy a family fun pack of passes, gift cards, and tickets that we hope will have our togetherness-loving trio enjoying a year’s worth of sporting and cultural events, outings, and other fun activities (and we’re hoping Nate and Kari can slip away for a date night). Hand-picked gifts for each family member ensure they know how special they are, including books, art classes, and swim lessons for Harper, AirPods and a power washer for Nate, and a massage and other much-deserved pampering for Kari. In fact, the Magic Moments team collaborated with Kari’s nominator to present Kari with something really special: a scrapbook of letters to Kari from her classroom kids, sharing why they love Mrs. Lau. Apparently, the words came easy, and it’s really quite the collection!

Kari, you are completely lovable, and we wish you the very best in your journey. May you and your family enjoy many magical moments together this season. Have an incredible holiday, Lau family!

A GoFundMe page has been established to help Kari’s family with expenses. Please visit to learn more or contribute.