My name is Kara Wade Tucker. I was born at University Hospital in Jacksonville FL, which makes me a true Florida Native. I was two months early and weighed 3 pounds. Complications during delivery resulted in a diagnosis of cerebral palsy which has affected my balance and ability to walk. My disability did not hold me back from accomplishing my goals. In fact, my challenges gave me resiliency and a passion for everything I do, especially advocating for people with disabilities.

My background story involves years of physical therapy with my Dad and doctors at Nemours Hospital. Because of them, I can walk, and I learned to never give up. Since the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), was not signed until July 26, 1990, there were no daycare centers or preschools that would allow me to attend. Consequently, I attended “Daddy Carpentry” Preschool with my Dad, who happened to be an expert carpenter at the beach.

I attended all the local beach schools and graduated from Fletcher High School. I graduated with honors from the University of North Florida, where I earned a Master of Science in Rehabilitation Counseling and a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology. I went on to complete postgraduate work at Auburn University, Auburn, Alabama and received a Graduate Certificate of Rehabilitation Leadership and Management.

At age 24, I was the youngest-elected female official in the State of Florida. I served two 4-year terms on the City Council in Neptune Beach, which included 2 years as Vice Mayor.

My job fills most of my time. We recently planned a week of events to celebrate the 34th Anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act. The event was dedicated to bringing together resources, information, and community to support individuals with disabilities and their families.

Anything special going on for this summer?

Since both of my parents have Stage 4 cancer and are undergoing medical treatments, I planned a July 4th “staycation” at Margaritaville in Jacksonville Beach. My dad is an avid Jimmy Buffett fan, so we thoroughly enjoyed our time. Future “Resort” visits will be at Mayo Clinic and will include chemotherapy, radiation, new medications and lots of prayers. We are trying to maintain a positive attitude and a sense of humor.

I partnered with Visit Jacksonville to create marketing materials to include accessibility for the Disability Community.

What keeps you busy these days?

My current community involvement includes networking events with the Leadership Jacksonville Class of 2020 and Jacksonville Women’s Network Class of 2024. I am currently serving as the Jacksonville Jaycees President, the oldest young professional group in the city. I also serve on several disability and diversity boards. This summer I joined the UNF Alumni Board, and I am looking forward to working with my fellow Ospreys.

I am an avid sports fan. I enjoy cheering on the Jacksonville Jaguars, Jacksonville Sharks, Jacksonville Icemen and the Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp and try to attend as many games as possible. I love to cheer on the Ospreys and am a Season Ticket Holder for Basketball. Go Ospreys! SWOOP!

I love spending time with my two dogs Mini Mini & King Neptune. They love to dress up for the holidays and are great companions.

The Alhambra Dinner Theatre provides another form of entertainment for me, and since I am a theater buff, I am also a season ticket holder. Attending the Christmas Show each year is a family tradition.

Cleaning up Florida Blvd is an ongoing project as part of the Adopt a Road Program. You would be surprised to see the “things” I have found.

What’s one thing (funny, different, cool) that many might not know about you?

I own one of Wille Nelson’s red bandanas. He threw it directly at me at the Florida Theatre. His song “On the Road Again” resonates with me because I am happiest when I am going places or doing things. Most people think my middle name is “GO”.

While on the GO, I met three Vice Presidents – Dan Quail, Joe Biden, and Mike Pence. I chatted with all of them and took photos to remember the occasions.

I also have direct access to the North Pole. For twenty years Santa would call me to assist him as his official Elf in Neptune Beach. I gladly did so and still see several of the children who are now successful adults.

What’s the best part of living here on the First Coast?

I love EVERYTHING about living on the FIRST COAST – Beautiful sunsets, ocean breeze, white sandy beaches and the small-town close “family” atmosphere. Growing up in Neptune Beach was like living in Mayberry. At the age of four, after a scenic boat ride at the UNF nature preserve on campus, I proclaimed I wanted to attend UNF.

I have fond memories of attending Fletcher High School Football Games. In fact, the series Friday Night Lights could have been filmed at our stadium. I attended so many games, I was voted “Most School Spirited”.

Since I am a self-proclaimed “foodie” and food connoisseur, I enjoy frequenting our tasty local restaurants and meeting friends and neighbors.

Anything else that you would like to tell the community?

Whenever I feel overwhelmed, I remember this Bible verse:

11 “For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and hope.” Jeremiah 29:11(New King James Version)

I try to live by the Golden Rule and my own Four “P” Plan

· Find your PASSION

· Make a written PLAN

· PERSEVERE

· PRAY

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Mike Kaufmann

Mike is a native First Coaster and was a leading figure in surfing and skateboarding for most of his life. After promoting music for many years on the local music scene, Mike now brings a unique perspective to FirstCoast.Life as a contributing writer.

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