Kara, who studied BA (Hons) Drama with English, fell ill 15 years ago with a severe form of myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME) that left her unable to walk.
Despite having ME symptoms while at university she went on to graduate in 2012 and pursued a career in the arts. In May 2020 she topped the charts with her hit album, It’s Still ME, created to raise funds for the ME Association.
Kara’s Personal Tutor and Programme Leader for Drama Emma Heron said: “Kara arrived a warrior, determined to get the most out of every opportunity the University could offer. Despite significant health challenges that worsened over her three years of undergraduate study Kara went on to graduate with a 2:1.
“During the pandemic, as only Kara could, she successfully drew together a team of musicians to help her to record an album which climbed the charts. She was an amazing person, and all of our hearts go out to her and her family.”
When Kara issued an appeal in 2019 for musicians and producers to help her complete her first album, more than 100 people offered to assist her. Working with a team of musicians, technicians and producers she created a nine-track album which was released later that year and quickly climbed the iTunes and Amazon charts.
Kara described her time at Edge Hill as “the best years of my life” and during her studies she worked with the Students’ Union and University’s Inclusion Team to improve life for disabled students. In her second year, she was awarded the Reverend Jesse Jackson Scholarship for students who have overcome disability or disadvantage to get into higher education.
Vice-Chancellor Dr John Cater said: “Kara’s determination to succeed and help others is an inspiration to us all. Despite her health problems she accomplished so much in life and her work to improve conditions for other disabled students has left a lasting legacy at the University.
“As a tribute to her life and achievements the University will be lighting up the main building in her memory and will be playing her album across campus on the day of her funeral.”
Kara’s album is still on sale via her website at www.karajanesings.com and you can also donate to her chosen charity via www.justgiving.com/kara-jane-sings.
January 6, 2023
