Kaitlyn's George Mark Story

Diagnosed with epilepsy at just two years old, Kaitlyn Heflin has spent much of her life navigating complex medical challenges. But her story is about so much more than her diagnosis. It's about growing up, finding joy, building friendships, and having a place where she can simply be herself. In this moving short film, Kaitlyn and her family share how George Mark Children's House became a second home throughout her childhood and teenage years. Living with epilepsy and other complex medical needs meant Kaitlyn missed out on many experiences other children take for granted. Through George Mark's pediatric palliative and respite care programs, she found opportunities to make friends, explore her creativity, attend her own prom, and celebrate life's milestones. For her family, George Mark also provided something equally important: peace of mind, respite from the demands of caregiving, and meaningful opportunities for her siblings. Today, Kaitlyn is a college student, an aspiring author, and a young woman determined to pursue her dreams on her own terms. Her story reminds us that pediatric palliative care is about more than managing medical conditions. It's about quality of life, family, belonging, and making every day extraordinary. Kaitlyn's story was featured at George Mark Children's House's 2026 fundraising gala, An Evening of Love & Lyrics, where nearly 400 supporters helped raise more than $1.1 million for children and families. ABOUT GEORGE MARK CHILDREN'S HOUSE Located in San Leandro, California, George Mark Children's House is the nation's first freestanding pediatric palliative care and hospice home. For more than two decades, George Mark has provided compassionate, family-centered care for children and young adults with serious medical conditions, always at no cost to their families. Learn more about our mission and how you can help: https://georgemark.org/ #GeorgeMarkChildrensHouse #EpilepsyAwareness #PediatricPalliativeCare