At CaraKit, we believe that comfort isn’t a luxury — it’s a part of healing. Our founder, Kellie Whitton, created CaraKit after her own experience with cancer to help others feel cared for, understood, and supported during treatment. In this Q&A, Kellie shares honest thoughts, lessons learned, and tips for navigating the journey — whether you’re the one in treatment or someone who loves them.

1. What inspired you to create CaraKit?

When I was diagnosed, I was overwhelmed — not just by treatment, but by the unknowns. Friends wanted to help, but no one really knew what was needed. And I’d never been through treatment–so neither did I.  I realized quickly how important it would be to create kits that provided thoughtful, practical, and comforting items that could speak for the people who cared. CaraKit was born out of that — to make sure no one has to go through treatment feeling unprepared or alone.

2. What’s the biggest misconception about cancer treatment?

That it’s only physical. The truth is, it’s mental, emotional, and spiritual too. The body is doing a lot of work to heal, but the mind and spirit are part of that process. Comfort, hope, and connection aren’t “extras” — they’re part of the medicine.  And letting loved ones know what to do to help those in treatment, it’s important both for their strength and for how they’re interacting and helping.  It’s easy for those supporting to take the constant sympathy route–to be sad with and for the person in treatment.  But that person also needs to be uplifted, joked around with, to find a way to laugh and smile and realize that life is much bigger that the moment you’re sharing in the room–and to look forward to the moment when the medicine has done its work.  We know some illnesses can be terminal but with such great advances in medicine these days, many aren’t.  And yet many cancer patients–no matter what the diagnosis–are treated like they’re terminal and they just aren’t.  Our bodies and especially with the support of our minds can do truly miraculous things to heal.

3. How can someone best support a friend who’s going through treatment?

Start by showing up — even if you don’t know what to say. A text, a meal, a thoughtful note, or a small care item can mean everything. The key is consistency. Cancer can feel very isolating, and the treatments can take time, so continuing to check in over time is the real gift.

4. What were some of the hardest parts of treatment for you personally?

The unpredictability. You can’t plan how you’ll feel day to day, and that loss of control is hard. But over time, I learned to give myself grace and to focus on what I could control — my mindset, my rest, my circle of support.  And those helping me knew that even if I wasn’t showing up in the way I had been in the past, it was ok.  That meant a lot to me.

5. Why do you believe comfort is so important during treatment?

Because comfort restores balance. When you’re physically uncomfortable or emotionally exhausted, it’s hard to feel hopeful. Something as simple as a soft blanket, tea that soothes nausea, or a journal to process thoughts can remind you that you’re still you — not just a patient.

6. What advice do you have for caregivers or family members?

Remember that your presence matters as much as your actions. Sometimes it’s not about fixing things, it’s about being steady. Take care of yourself, too — your strength helps them more than you realize.

7. You often talk about “small things making a big difference.” What does that mean to you?

Healing is made up of small moments — a deep breath, a kind word, a day that feels a little lighter. Those small things create a sense of normalcy and hope. That’s what CaraKit is all about: the power of simple comforts to make hard days a little softer.

8. How did your cancer experience change your perspective on life and work?

Completely. Before, I was always running fast, chasing the next goal. Cancer slowed me down — and strangely, that became a gift. It taught me to live in the present, to choose purpose over pressure, and to use my energy for things that truly matter.

9. What message do you most want to share with someone who’s just starting treatment?

You are stronger than you think. It might not feel like it right now, but strength isn’t about never breaking down — it’s about finding your way back each time. Accept help, give yourself patience, and remember that healing is a journey, not a race.

10. What’s next for CaraKit and your mission?

We’re growing into The CaraKit Foundation, expanding our reach so that every patient — regardless of income or location — can receive a comfort kit during treatment. My dream is for every person facing cancer to know: you are seen, you are supported, and you are never alone.

“Healing doesn’t just happen in the hospital. It happens in the heart — through kindness, comfort, and connection.” – Kellie Whitton