A design created by a 23-year-old Northern Nevada woman who passed away after a long battle with childhood cancer is now featured in the official merchandise for this year’s Great Reno Balloon Races.
Custom Ink has partnered with Katie’s Collective to showcase one of Katie Histing’s original designs on 2025 event merchandise.
Twenty-five percent of proceeds from items featuring her artwork will be donated to the Northern Nevada Children’s Cancer Foundation (NNCCF).
Katie Histing was 17 years old when she was diagnosed with Ewing’s Sarcoma, a rare bone and soft tissue cancer. Over the course of six years, she underwent 17 surgeries, 94 blood transfusions, 115 doses of radiation, hundreds of chemotherapy treatments, and a stem cell transplant. Despite suffering from sepsis, pneumonia, a pleural effusion, and other complications, Katie remained positive and compassionate throughout her fight. She passed away in November 2024 at the age of 23.
Throughout her journey, Katie found joy and purpose in creating art. Her design, “Just a Dreamer,” now displayed on official race gear, reflects her message of hope and her belief that people can live fully, even in the midst of difficult battles.
“Her smile, kind energy, and love for life continue to inspire me to help spread her story and unite our community,” said Terah Claflin of Custom Ink. “To be able to give back to one of the organizations that helped her through her journey in any capacity is humbling. Her 'Just a Dreamer' design that is featured reminds us all that anything is possible, and we should continue to #LiveLifeLikeKT. I'm so thankful to Katie's Collective, NNCCF, The Reno Balloon Races, and Custom Ink for supporting this idea and bringing it to fruition.”
Katie’s Collective, a project created to carry on her artistic and advocacy work, will continue donating a portion of its proceeds to organizations that supported Katie throughout her cancer journey, including NNCCF, Renown Children’s Hospital, and Make-A-Wish.
“Katie is continuing to be ‘the sticker’ bringing people and organizations together,” said her mother, Lynn. “Northern Nevada Children’s Cancer Foundation, Custom Ink, Make-A-Wish, and Renown Children’s Hospital all helped Katie battle childhood cancer for over six years. All these organizations are at the Balloon Race this year. Hopefully, Katie’s Collective can continue to be ‘the sticker’ and help support the organizations that helped her.”
NNCCF supported Katie and her family throughout her fight, and leaders at the organization say her legacy continues to inspire the work they do to help other local children and families impacted by cancer.
This collaboration not only honors Katie’s life and legacy but also highlights the ongoing efforts to support childhood cancer warriors in the northern Nevada community.
