Love, Light, and Legacy
When passion meets purpose, incredible things happen. For me, this realization took shape through my Great Dane, Mabel, affectionately known as Miss Maybelline. A gentle giant with a soulful presence, Mabel lived only 18 months, but her impact was monumental. From her playful spirit to her calming energy, she made every moment meaningful. Her presence reminded me of the beauty in connecting deeply, even in the shortest chapters, and how passion and purpose can create something truly special.
Hi, I'm Kylee
Living creatively, designing passionately.
A Creative Vision with a Life -Threatening Cause
As a designer, I’ve always believed in the power of creativity to make a difference. When Mabel was diagnosed with a rare form of blood cancer—one of only a handful of cases in the United States—I knew I needed to act quickly. Combining my love for animals and my skills in design, I launched a campaign to raise funds for her treatments. With the support of an incredible community, we were able to raise nearly $20,000 which not only gave Mabel a chance with specialized treatment but also added to the limited research base for her very rare disease. . The project, detailed here, showcased how design can be a force for good in the real world—not just an aesthetic tool, but a medium for connection, action, and advocacy.
The Marvelous Miss Maybelline: Maybe She Was Born With It
Despite her short life, Mabel was a beacon of light. Her towering stature was matched only by her immense capacity for love. Even while battling a devastating illness, she brought joy to everyone she met. Strangers would stop to admire her, drawn to her gentle demeanor, soulful eyes, and an unmistakable sparkle that appeared mischievous. Whether sneaking an extra treat or playfully nudging for attention, Mabel’s personality was unforgettable as she engaged you with her gentle manner. She taught me and everyone she met the importance of resilience, unconditional love, and living in the moment.
Designing for a Greater Purpose
The campaign to fund Mabel’s treatments was a labor of love. It featured:
A Bold Visual Identity: Inspired by Mabel’s striking presence, the design elements were vibrant and memorable, reflecting her larger-than-life personality.
Merchandise with Meaning: From custom apparel to digital downloads, every product celebrated Mabel’s spirit while helping to meet her huge medical costs and care.
Storytelling: Through heartfelt messaging and engaging visuals, we shared Mabel’s journey, building a community of supporters who rallied behind her.
A Community Effort
The success of this campaign was not just about design—it was about people. Friends, family, and even strangers came together to support Mabel. Their generosity and encouragement underscored the power of caring community action. The campaign even went international, thanks to Instagram, where supporters from around the globe rallied behind Mabel’s cause. Several local companies also joined the effort by creating custom products and donating the proceeds to her treatments. It was humbling to witness such a widespread and heartfelt response, showcasing the incredible potential of community compassion and support.
Honoring Mabel’s Legacy
Mabel’s journey was a touching testament to love, creativity, and community involvement. Her sparkle, both soulful and mischievous, lives on as a reminder of the profound bond between humans and animals that can be established and enjoyed. Through this project, I discovered how the incredible power of design can bring people together and make a lasting impact. While Mabel is no longer with us, her spirit continues to inspire my work and the lives of those she touched.
Thank you for being part of this journey. To learn more about the Marvelous Miss Maybelline campaign, visit my portfolio.