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Finding Strength in Community: Counselor Kathryn Lorusso’s Journey 

Stories & Spotlights
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At Texas Virtual Academy at Hallsville (TVAH), our counselors are the heart of what we do. Every day, they guide students through challenges, celebrate their wins, and help shape their futures. For high school academic counselor Kathryn Lorusso, that role became even more meaningful as she navigated one of the hardest seasons of her own life. 

From Journalist to Counselor 

Kathryn’s career began in journalism before she felt a calling to education. She pursued master’s degrees in both English and counseling, eventually serving students at HEB ISD, Trinity High School, and Tarrant County College before joining TVAH’s statewide virtual school. Over the years, Kathryn has counseled students at every level, bringing wisdom, empathy, and encouragement to every conversation. 

An Unexpected Diagnosis 

Last year, Kathryn’s life shifted dramatically when she was diagnosed with endometrial cancer. The news was shocking — she had always prioritized health and wellness, and yet her doctors gave her just 3–6 months to live. What followed was a grueling year: six surgeries in seven months, six rounds of chemotherapy with immunotherapy, an ileostomy bag, and weeks in the hospital. 

At one point, Kathryn nearly lost her life. Yet even in the hardest moments, she held onto faith and the belief that better days were ahead. “Every day I am alive, I run a gratitude list with God,” she said. “You can’t take the little things for granted. Do your best now.” 

A Community That Carried Her 

Through every surgery, hospital stay, and round of treatment, Kathryn was never alone. Her TVAH colleagues surrounded her with care and support: 

  • Her pod captain, Tai, took on Kathryn’s 400-student caseload and encouraged her when she felt defeated. 
  • Counselors pooled together to gift her a DoorDash card so she wouldn’t have to rely on hospital food. 
  • Leaders reminded her to rest when she needed it most, even allowing her to nap between virtual sessions. 

“I could not have done it without them,” Kathryn shared. “I’ve never experienced such a kind, caring staff in all my years in education.” 

“Kathryn is one of the strongest women I have had the pleasure to know. Through all of her trials she remains positive and hopeful. This positive attitude will continue to serve her well as she navigates this next phase in her life. I am so blessed to call her my friend and co-worker.” – Tai Keyster, Counseling Department Captain Dual Credit Coordinator 

Looking Forward with Hope 

This summer, Kathryn met with a new oncologist who reassured her that while cancer cells can persist, there are many effective treatments available. With oral drugs, immunotherapy infusions, and new medications on the horizon, her condition is manageable. Though she faces ongoing treatment, she remains optimistic. 

“The bottom line is that I’m okay, and I will be okay for a long time,” Kathryn said. “This job, and the people I work with, are such a blessing.” 

A Message for All of Us 

Kathryn’s journey is one of resilience, faith, and the power of community. She wants her story to remind others not to take life for granted. “Do your best now,” she encourages, “because you never know when those little things might be taken away.” 

At TVAH, we are honored to work alongside Kathryn and inspired by the way she continues to pour into her students, even while walking through her own challenges. Her story is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the difference a supportive community can make. 

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