Joanne M. Kasprzak

Plain Vanilla with Rainbow Sprinkles: an Inspirational Story of Faith, Hope and Love Joanne M. Kasprzak

Mary Kasprzak (1988-2003) was an amazing youngster and an inspiration to hundreds of people with whom she interacted. In Plain Vanilla with Rainbow Sprinkles, her father, Tom, brings Mary's inspiration to you. This heart-wrenching, incredible journey chronicles how Mary's family and friends were strengthened and motivated to more fully understand the importance of every life, regardless of the labels we apply to one another. Mary Kasprzak was born with Down syndrome. Initially, her parents battled a multitude of perplexities and fears that spun through their minds like a hamster on a wheel. Defying all the predictions and labels-both cultural and medical-Mary transformed everyone she touched with her innocence, unconditional love, humor and ability to forgive. Through her daily unassuming deeds of kindness and compassion, Mary became the greatest of all teachers. Mary's life, punctuated by miracles and her death, surrounded by mystical events, served to strengthen her parents' faith. Mary added a final exclamation point to her life by saving the lives of five other people through organ donation. Her father's intimate portrait of faith, love and compassion, accompanied by an epilogue from the woman who received Mary's heart, will motivate you to see the world differently.