KK Nelson – Remembering A Beautiful And Brave Girl Who Was An Angel Among Us

On Sunday, October 5, one of the most beautiful people I have ever known passed away in an ATV accident. Kaedyn (KK) Nelson, I love you and always will.

KK's Cancer Journey

A little over 7 years ago, at the age of 9, Kaedyn was diagnosed with rhabdomyosarcoma, an aggressive form of soft tissue cancer. The Woden, Texas, native received treatments in Houston for the disease and, against all odds, was able to spend Christmas at home in 2018. By December 2019, she was in full remission and had completely recovered.

READ MORE: Oak Ridge Boys' Bass Singer Reveals Cancer Diagnosis

KK's Will To Help Others

Kaedyn's treatment protocol was aggressive and rigorous. It had to be to combat the cancer. KK spent many months in discomfort and agonizing pain. But it was through these tribulations that she taught me and many others how a true servant of Jesus should act.

For over 2 decades, KICKS 105 has hosted a yearly 'radiothon' to raise money to help kids fighting cancer at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. KK wanted to help us. Instead of worrying about her own condition and pain, she wanted to share her story with our listeners, with the hope of raising more money to help other children battling cancer.

I was friends with Kaedyn's grandmother (Anita Scott) for many years, but this was the first time I got the chance to know KK. Needless to say, I fell in love with her. That infectious smile, her natural desire to put the needs of others first, and her love of Jesus —all of this made me so proud to call Kaedyn my friend.

The Last Time I Saw KK

On Wednesday, October 1, I was playing music and announcing at the Lufkin Panther Cross Country Classic. I felt a tap on my shoulder, and sure enough, it was beautiful KK coming up to me to say hi and hug me. We talked for just a bit before she joined her Woden teammates for the upcoming 2-mile race. Later in the evening, she made it a point to catch my attention and waved at me as she was leaving for home. That was the last time I saw KK...of course, she was smiling.

I like to think of that meet in Lufkin as the second-to-last race that Kaedyn participated in. She didn't win that race, but she DID WIN her final race. She saw the face of Jesus as she crossed that finish line and heard the words, "Well done, good and faithful servant, come and share your master's happiness."

I miss my friend terribly, but I rejoice in the unimaginable glory and love that she is now experiencing. Thank you, KK, for being an Angel Among Us.