(9-20-26) Current  Miss Lake Festival Caitlyn Nuding made two hospital visits…she makes the Celina area proud that she represents them.

Showing it is more than a ‘beauty pageant’…Caitlin has a shown a ‘special’ beauty inside. Testified by those who know her.

Related: Nuding Named Miss Lake Festival

Yesterday, I was blessed with the opportunity to visit two members of Celina’s community — because when one person hurts, we all hurt together. And that means we pray together, fundraise together, support each other, and show up when times get tough.

Caitlyn and Taylor

First, we visited Taylor, an 8-year-old little girl from Celina who is awaiting a heart transplant at Nationwide Children’s. She has such a spunky personality, and it was so good to see despite everything she has been through. We played Uno, and I brought her a few goodies that I hope she enjoys! She is such a strong little girl, and I hope I was able to brighten her day even just a little bit.

Parker and Caitlyn

Secondly, we went to see Parker, a senior at Celina High School recovering from a football injury at Ohio State’s Dodd Rehabilitation Hospital. Parker’s strength and positive outlook throughout his recovery were incredible to see. He told us about some of the football players and coaches he has met, and he made sure to give the Ohio State linebackers a hard time about losing to Texas.

I brought Parker some of his favorite snacks and enjoyed talking with him before the Ohio State game started. Parker is a hard worker, determined to get better, and has a firm foundation in his faith. Faith, strength, and courage.

It has been amazing to witness our community come together to support both of these families when they need it most. I was truly inspired by both Taylor and Parker.

At the end of the day, it isn’t about the gifts I brought them. It’s about showing up when people need it most and reminding them just how much their community supports them. I will continue to keep both of them and their families in my thoughts and prayers.

Now, I have to give my dad a little shout-out. He woke up early and drove me to both hospitals (even through game day traffic 😅) We used to be one of the families making those drives back and forth to Columbus to visit someone in the hospital. We understand how much it puts on not only the patient, but on their families, too.

Both of these families have handled it with such grace and strength. We will continue to support them in any way we can.

Posted from the Miss Lake Festival Facebook page