After his younger sister, Eva, was diagnosed with hydrocephalus, Jack Henry Kluter-Kruse took truth or dare to a whole new level with the creation of Dare & Donate 2 Hydro. Dares such as running around in a horse mask in a 7-11, while trying to drink a slurpee and eat a bag of chips, were successful in bringing both smiles to his community and awareness of hydrocephalus, a serious brain condition that has required Eva to undergo three brain surgeries. Jack Henry and his family’s dares have raised over $150,000 for hydrocephalus research to date.
In addition to spreading laughter and awareness, Jack Henry and Eva spend time coaching elementary school students about the importance of building each other up and “filling each other’s buckets.” Jack Henry shares, “In working with these kids to motivate them to advocate for what they care about, so much has come back to me and my own bucket has overflowed.”
As a graduating senior at Santa Margarita Catholic High School and soon-to-be freshman at the University of Arizona, Jack Henry’s leadership and creativity will continue to make a difference in encouraging kids and spreading awareness for hydrocephalus. With his sister as his inspiration, Jack Henry reflects, “Eva’s big heart has helped mine grow, too.”
Richie’s Spirit Foundation congratulates Jack Henry Kluter-Kruse on being selected as a 2021 Finalist!