At Peoples Bank of East Tennessee, serving others goes beyond banking. Through its Kindness Jean Fund, employees continue to come together to support individuals and families within the communities they call home.

What began as a simple tradition of employees donating to wear jeans on designated days has grown into a meaningful initiative focused on providing support, encouragement, and care to those in need. Each contribution reflects the heart of the bank’s mission and the dedication of its team to make a difference beyond the walls of its branches.

In honor of Epilepsy Awareness Day, Peoples Bank employees wore purple and participated in the Kindness Jean Fund to support Kara Cline, a freshman at Sequoyah High School, and her family.

Kara has been living with Dravet syndrome, a rare and severe form of epilepsy, since early childhood. She began experiencing seizures at just six months old, often requiring emergency medical care and hospital visits. After years of uncertainty, Kara was diagnosed at the age of two and began receiving specialized care through Cincinnati Children’s Hospital.

Dravet syndrome is a lifelong condition that can cause prolonged seizures, developmental delays, behavioral challenges, and other serious health concerns. While treatment options are limited, Kara’s family worked tirelessly to find solutions that would improve her quality of life. Through specialized medication and ongoing care, Kara’s seizures are now more manageable, often stopping on their own within minutes.

Despite the challenges she faces, Kara continues to show incredible strength and resilience. Described as strong and full of personality, she strives to live life as normally as possible, inspiring those around her each day.

Through the Kindness Jean Fund, Peoples Bank employees are proud to stand alongside Kara and her family, offering support during their journey and raising awareness for epilepsy and Dravet syndrome.

“Our team is at the heart of everything we do,” said Beth Henry, SVP Retail Branch Coordinator. “They consistently step up to support our communities in meaningful ways, and this is a reflection of their compassion and commitment to serving others.”

Community members who wish to support Kara and her family are encouraged to visit any Peoples Bank of East Tennessee branch and make a donation by mentioning “epilepsy awareness.”

At Peoples Bank of East Tennessee, it is these moments of connection, compassion, and community that define who we are.

Learn more about Dravet Syndrome at: https://dravetfoundation.org/what-is-dravet-syndrome/