The Kelly Can character was created based on a real life person, Kelly Heinz-Grundner.   Unfortunately, unlike the children's book character who can seemingly do anything, there was one thing that the real Kelly couldn't do and that was beat a brain tumor.   Sadly, after a two-year struggle against this terrible disease, Kelly died in September 2004, at the age of 31.  

Kelly's deep love for her husband, her family, her friends, and for life itself, coupled with the irrefutable wisdom of her soul, were the trademarks that made Kelly such a rare and beautiful person.   What's more, Kelly's magnificent smile and infectious laugh, as well as her desire and ability to have fun no matter what the situation are the visible qualities about her that will be sorely missed.   Finally though, it was Kelly's indomitable strength and unrelenting determination to succeed at whatever she did, especially during her struggle against this terrible disease, that made her truly an inspiration to everybody she met.   Her gentle courage and quiet bravery as she fought tirelessly to win her life back in spite of the overwhelming odds she faced, were surely a source of strength and hope to everyone around her.  

Ralph Waldo Emerson wrote "To laugh often and much, to win the respect of intelligent people...the appreciation of honest critics...to leave the world a bit better...to know that even one life has breathed easier because you have lived...this is to have succeeded."   By all definitions, Kelly's life was a true success and there is no question that her spirit will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

Those who knew Kelly best know that she indeed lived, laughed and loved each and every day, even during her two-year battle against her brain tumor.   Moreover, Kelly taught all of us so many things about life.   That is why we decided to create "Kelly Can" character - as a tribute to her and a way for her spirit to live on.

We are hopeful that through these children's books, she can keep on teaching us all!