Collecting Memories: Karen's Story
At The Wander Club, we’re continually inspired by the journeys behind our Tokens. Each one carries not only a destination but a story — stories like Karen’s, a powerful reminder of courage, curiosity, and living life without waiting for “someday.”
Karen always dreamed of traveling the world. But like so many of us, year after year she found herself saying, “someday.” Then, in 2015, everything changed.
“I was diagnosed with stage 3C breast cancer — in fact, I had two different types. I realized there was a good chance that ‘someday’ might not come.”
That wake-up call transformed everything. Karen decided she wouldn’t wait another moment to start truly living.
“I told my class of juniors and seniors that if they wanted to go somewhere over spring break, I’d take them. They chose Perú and Machu Picchu. I was on chemo... but I took 11 kids to Machu Picchu — and we climbed!”
That first adventure sparked a lifelong pursuit of exploration. Since then, Karen has journeyed across Italy, the Galápagos Islands, China, Japan, Germany, the Czech Republic, Liechtenstein, Austria, Switzerland, and France — and next year, she’s heading to Africa.
“I keep my Wander Club collection on my keychain. Each Token represents not just a country I’ve traveled to, but a group of students I’ve introduced to new cultures. Teaching is part of who I am. The Wander Club lets me carry a piece of my students and our shared experiences wherever I go.”
Karen has been a teacher for over 30 years, and her passion for helping young people see the world runs deep.
“Yes, I love to travel and I want to see this whole world, but just as important to me is sharing that experience with young people. I’ve taken my two sons, my son-in-law, my nephew, and dozens of students and parents on trips around the globe. I share my photos and stories online, hoping to inspire others to travel too — to show that it’s not as difficult as it seems.”
From the quiet reflection of Dachau to climbing the Great Wall of China and breathing in the peace of St. Peter’s Basilica, every Token on Karen’s keychain holds a memory — a story of perseverance, gratitude, and adventure.
“Sometimes I pluck one from the pile, smile, and remember the incredible moments that just a simple Token can bring rushing back.”
Here’s to you, Karen — and to never waiting for “someday.”
Do you have an interesting story behind your collection?
We’d love to hear it. Share your story with us on social @thewanderclub or via email to hi@thewanderclub.com for a chance to be featured.