Close Menu
News JournosNews Journos
  • World
  • U.S. News
  • Business
  • Politics
  • Europe News
  • Finance
  • Turkey Reports
  • Money Watch
  • Health
Editors Picks

Trump Claims Tesla CEO Didn’t Advise on Auto Tariffs Due to Potential Conflict of Interest

March 26, 2025

Trump Promises Ukraine Will Endorse Key Rare-Earth Minerals Agreement

February 27, 2025

Trump Administration Faces Criticism for Ignoring Court Rulings Amid Legal Setbacks

March 1, 2025

Tudor Dixon Endorses Trump While Considering 2026 Governor or Senate Bid

March 18, 2025

Musk Steps Down from White House Role as DOGE Leadership Changes

April 30, 2025
Facebook X (Twitter) Instagram
Latest Headlines:
  • Tesla Achieves Milestone with First Driverless Car Delivery to Customer
  • Thousands of Norwegians Incorrectly Informed of Lottery Wins
  • Medical Researchers and Patients Protest Budget Cuts and Layoffs Impacting Cancer Care
  • New Satellite Images Reveal Continued Activity at Iran’s Fordow Nuclear Site
  • Senate Engages in Extended Debate on Trump’s Proposed Legislation Before Overnight Votes
  • Beyoncé Overcomes Car Malfunction Mid-Concert in Houston Performance
  • Forest Fires Devastate Türkiye’s Provinces
  • Tropical Storms Barry and Flossie Develop Near Mexico’s Coasts
  • Sen. Thom Tillis Declines Reelection Amid Trump-Driven Primary Threat
  • US Diplomat: Iran-Israel Conflict Could Open New Opportunities in the Middle East
  • Sabrina Carpenter Unveils New Album Cover Art Following Criticism
  • Trump Threatens NYC Funding Over Mamdani Election Bid
  • Health Expert Discusses COVID-19 Response Strategies on National Broadcast
  • Iran’s UN Ambassador Speaks on International Relations in Recent Interview
  • Uber CEO Discusses Company Vision and Future Directions
  • UN Senior Staff Perks Under Review Amid Budget Cuts
  • Tesla’s Stock Surges 300-Fold Since IPO 15 Years Ago
  • Reality TV Star Charged with Murder After Partner Found Beheaded in Australia
  • Facebook Account Hacked in Friend Impersonation Scam
  • Trump Advocates Gaza Ceasefire Amid Israeli Military Evacuations
Facebook X (Twitter) Instagram
News JournosNews Journos
Subscribe
Sunday, June 29
  • World
  • U.S. News
  • Business
  • Politics
  • Europe News
  • Finance
  • Turkey Reports
  • Money Watch
  • Health
News JournosNews Journos
You are here: News Journos » U.S. News » Columbine Survivor Passes Away After Cancer Battle
Columbine Survivor Passes Away After Cancer Battle

Columbine Survivor Passes Away After Cancer Battle

News EditorBy News EditorMarch 17, 2025 U.S. News 6 Mins Read

On March 3, 2025, Karissa Rund, a survivor of the Columbine High School shooting and a dedicated advocate for others facing adversity, succumbed to a long battle with colorectal cancer at the age of 40. Known for her unwavering spirit and commitment to service, Rund’s life was marked by tragedy and resilience, having experienced the loss of her mother and husband, as well as her own health struggles. Her death has sparked a wave of tributes celebrating her bravery, faith, and the impactful legacy she leaves behind.

Article Subheadings
1) Early Life and Personal Tragedy
2) The Columbine Shooting Survivor
3) A Battle with Cancer
4) Professional Achievements and Community Impact
5) Tributes and Legacy

Early Life and Personal Tragedy

Karissa Rund was born and raised in Colorado, where her early life was marked by significant emotional challenges. At the tender age of 11, she lost her mother to breast cancer, an event that left a profound impact on her outlook on life. This early experience with loss would shape her resilience and empathy, attributes that would later define her advocacy work.

By the age of 14, Karissa faced another life-altering event when she survived the Columbine High School massacre on April 20, 1999. As one of the students caught in the tragic shooting incident, she witnessed violence that would haunt her for years to come. The brutality of that day deeply affected her and ignited a desire to help others who had experienced trauma. In her words, she described it as a moment that marked the beginning of not just survival, but a journey toward finding purpose in her pain.

The Columbine Shooting Survivor

The Columbine High School shooting was a watershed moment in U.S. history, marking one of the deadliest school shootings. That day, twelve students and one teacher lost their lives, and many others, including Karissa, were injured. Following the shooting, the survivor community faced a long path toward recovery, both physically and emotionally. Karissa often shared her story, believing it was crucial to help others understand the long-term effects of such trauma.

In the aftermath of the tragedy, Karissa became a voice for healing and support, participating in various advocacy programs that aimed to assist survivors. Her resilience was not only a personal battle but became a beacon of hope for many others in similar situations.

A Battle with Cancer

Karissa’s life continued to be marked by challenges as she was diagnosed with Stage IV colorectal cancer at the age of 31. Facing a diagnosis that many would find devastating, Karissa’s response was one of courage and unyielding spirit. She underwent nine surgeries and endured extensive treatments, including years of chemotherapy, which she described as a harrowing yet enlightening journey. According to her, each step of the way brought new lessons and greater compassion for others suffering from similar fates.

Throughout her ten-year battle with cancer, she maintained a positive outlook, often sharing updates on her health journey through her personal website. “I’ve endured nine surgeries, an incalculable amount of suffering and pain, as well as two years of chemo and that part of my journey isn’t done,” she stated, reflecting her unwavering determination to keep fighting.

Professional Achievements and Community Impact

Despite her struggles with health, Karissa Rund also had a commendable career. Her obituary highlights a “storied career in civil service,” showcasing her roles as a speechwriter and public affairs specialist for various government agencies including the Department of Energy, the Federal Emergency Management Agency, and the Department of Homeland Security. Her commitment to public service was driven by a desire to effect positive change in the lives of others, a value that resonated throughout her professional and personal life.

After retiring from civil service due to her health complications, Karissa channeled her energy into creating a nonprofit ministry. This endeavor aimed to aid and inspire people facing suffering, which became a significant project she continued to pursue until her health declined. Her ministry provided a source of encouragement to numerous individuals across the country, demonstrating her belief in the power of community and support in times of hardship.

Tributes and Legacy

Following Karissa’s passing, a GoFundMe page was established for her husband, Doug Rund, who cared for her tirelessly throughout her illness. The page included heartfelt tributes praising her tenacity and kindness. “Karissa was a force of friendship in this world, a lover of adventure, and a delighter in the victories of all those around her,” noted the statement, as friends and members of the community expressed their sorrow and celebrated her contributions to their lives.

In her battle against cancer and her efforts to support others, Karissa left behind a legacy of hope and resilience. Her story has inspired many, reminding all who knew her or heard of her journey of the importance of compassion, perseverance, and faith. As the community mourns her loss, her message of hope continues to resonate, encouraging others to face their struggles with grace and courage.

No. Key Points
1 Karissa Rund, a survivor of the Columbine High School shooting, passed away on March 3, 2025, after battling cancer.
2 She was deeply affected by the loss of her mother to cancer at a young age, which shaped her resilience.
3 Karissa was diagnosed with Stage IV colorectal cancer at 31 and endured intense medical treatments for ten years.
4 Throughout her career, she worked in various capacities in civil service, focusing on public communication.
5 Her legacy of hope, faith, and community service continues to inspire many after her passing.

Summary

The life of Karissa Rund serves as a testament to the enduring spirit of resilience amidst immense personal challenges. Her journey from a Columbine shooting survivor to a courageous advocate for those in need underscores the importance of community support and personal strength in overcoming adversity. As she is remembered by family, friends, and the broader community, her legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire future generations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Question: Who was Karissa Rund?

Karissa Rund was a survivor of the Columbine High School shooting, who later became a public servant and advocate for those battling cancer and other adversities.

Question: What challenges did Karissa face in her life?

Karissa faced numerous challenges, including the deaths of her mother and husband, surviving a school shooting, and battling cancer for over ten years.

Question: How did Karissa contribute to her community?

She contributed by creating a nonprofit ministry to aid and inspire those suffering, besides her career in civil service focused on public communication and support.

battle cancer Columbine Congress Crime Economy Education Elections Environmental Issues Healthcare Immigration Natural Disasters Passes Politics Public Policy Social Issues Supreme Court survivor Technology White House
Share. Facebook Twitter Pinterest LinkedIn Email Reddit WhatsApp Copy Link Bluesky
News Editor
  • Website

As the News Editor at News Journos, I am dedicated to curating and delivering the latest and most impactful stories across business, finance, politics, technology, and global affairs. With a commitment to journalistic integrity, we provide breaking news, in-depth analysis, and expert insights to keep our readers informed in an ever-changing world. News Journos is your go-to independent news source, ensuring fast, accurate, and reliable reporting on the topics that matter most.

Keep Reading

U.S. News

Tesla Achieves Milestone with First Driverless Car Delivery to Customer

7 Mins Read
U.S. News

Trump Threatens NYC Funding Over Mamdani Election Bid

5 Mins Read
U.S. News

Tesla’s Stock Surges 300-Fold Since IPO 15 Years Ago

6 Mins Read
U.S. News

Trump Threatens to Withhold Federal Payments

6 Mins Read
U.S. News

Trump’s Major Legislation Advances in Senate

6 Mins Read
U.S. News

Volatile Second Half Follows Turbulent Start

7 Mins Read
Mr Serdar Avatar

Serdar Imren

News Director

Facebook Twitter Instagram
Journalism Under Siege
Editors Picks

Trump Unveils “Golden Dome” Missile Defense Plan in Oval Office

May 20, 2025

Trump Casts Doubt on NATO Allies’ Commitment to Defense and U.S. Treaty Obligations

March 7, 2025

Trump Suggests “Deal” with Harvard Amid Court Ruling Allowing Foreign Student Admissions

June 20, 2025

UAE Leader Honors Trump with Order of Zayed During Visit

May 16, 2025

Republicans’ Favorability Toward Elon Musk Drops by 16 Points

June 11, 2025

Subscribe to News

Get the latest sports news from NewsSite about world, sports and politics.

Facebook X (Twitter) Pinterest Vimeo WhatsApp TikTok Instagram

News

  • World
  • U.S. News
  • Business
  • Politics
  • Europe News
  • Finance
  • Money Watch

Journos

  • Top Stories
  • Turkey Reports
  • Health
  • Tech
  • Sports
  • Entertainment

COMPANY

  • About Us
  • Get In Touch
  • Our Authors
  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms and Conditions
  • Accessibility

Subscribe to Updates

Get the latest creative news from FooBar about art, design and business.

© 2025 The News Journos. Designed by The News Journos.

Type above and press Enter to search. Press Esc to cancel.

Ad Blocker Enabled!
Ad Blocker Enabled!
Our website is made possible by displaying online advertisements to our visitors. Please support us by disabling your Ad Blocker.