Our dear friend Kataka J. Mackenzie (she/they) needs our community support!

On October 5th, during a dance call (that had been going really well!), Kataka’s shoe caught on the floor and their knee twisted. It was first diagnosed as a simple sprain, but after weeks of continued pain, an MRI revealed it was a complete ACL tear with bone contusions. This injury is particularly frustrating because just two years ago Kataka was in a serious car accident, which required major surgery and a long road to recovery and return to the stage.

Kataka is now scheduled for ACL reconstruction surgery in January 2026. After that, she’ll face months of intensive physical therapy and rehabilitation. The road back is long, demanding, and because of the nature of their work, financially daunting.

As many of you know, Kataka is a Seattle-based performer and teaching artist whose livelihood depends on their body. They pour their heart into teaching music and dance to young people and captivating audiences onstage. This injury means they could be out of work for six months or more without the ability to fully teach, perform, or take on the opportunities they’ve worked so hard for. Perhaps most heartbreaking, she's had to turn down Broadway audition invitations because of this injury.

Kataka is someone who shows up for their community, their fellow artists, and their students with generosity and spirit. Now it’s our turn to show up for them.

Your support through a donation of any amount or by sharing this GoFundMe will help cover medical costs, physical therapy, and essential living expenses during their recovery. Together, we can help Kataka heal fully and return to the stage!

Thank you for uplifting Kataka during this challenging chapter. Your kindness truly makes a difference.