Beauty pageant queen, 18, who overcame childhood homelessness, abuse killed in Florida car crash
An 18-year-old beauty pageant queen, Kadance Fredericksen, tragically lost her life in a car crash with a tractor-trailer in Florida. Despite facing childhood struggles, including homelessness and abuse, Kadance had managed to overcome these challenges and achieve remarkable success.
Kadance, a former winner of the Miss Okaloosa County Teen USA title, was driving on Highway 4 when the collision occurred. The cause of the crash is still under investigation, and the tractor-trailer driver, who sustained minor injuries, was not arrested.
In her final Instagram post on Feb. 7, Kadance shared her excitement about receiving a $40,000 college scholarship from the Ellison McCraney Ingram Foundation. This scholarship was a significant step towards realizing her dreams and shaping her future.
Despite her own hardships, Kadance founded Kada’s Promise, a charity initiative that collected 12,000 teddy bears and blankets for children experiencing abuse or trauma. She drew inspiration from her own childhood experiences of homelessness, hunger, and abuse, eventually finding solace in a single teddy bear that became her source of comfort.
In addition to her pageant achievements, Kadance raised $25,000 for the Ronald McDonald House, supporting families with children undergoing medical treatment. She was a senior at Baker School, where she was set to graduate before the tragic accident cut short her promising future.
The Baker School community mourns Kadance’s untimely passing, describing her as an exceptional young woman known for her compassion and dedication to helping others. A candlelight vigil will be held to honor her memory and legacy.
Kadance’s story serves as a reminder of resilience, determination, and the impact one person can have on the lives of others. Her spirit and commitment to making a difference will continue to inspire those who knew her and those touched by her charitable work through Kada’s Promise.
