Jenny Marrs and Kimberly Schlapman Forge a Powerful Friendship Through Shared Loss and Advocacy

HGTV star Jenny Marrs is navigating a season of profound personal loss. The “Fixer to Fabulous” host has faced the deaths of family pets, neighbors, and her mother-in-law in 2025. Her close friend, Little Big Town’s Kimberly Schlapman, has been a pillar of support during this difficult time.

Their bond, however, is a two-way street. Schlapman herself is facing major life challenges, including her mother’s advancing Parkinson’s disease. This mutual understanding of hardship has cemented a deep and public friendship between the two women, offering a powerful example of support.

An Instagram Connection Blossoms Into Real-Life Support

Schlapman was initially a fan of Jenny and Dave Marrs from their HGTV show. She felt an instant connection to their values and family life. Their friendship began organically through direct messages on Instagram.

They discovered shared life experiences, including adoption and infertility. These common threads forged a strong bond. Schlapman told EntertainmentNow they “just kind of speak the same language,” united by faith and family.

This foundation of shared values has proven essential. It provides a safe space for both women to be vulnerable about their struggles. Schlapman has publicly endorsed Marrs’ new book, “Trust God, Love People,” praising its honesty.

Schlapman Champions Parkinson’s Awareness Campaign

While supporting Marrs, Schlapman is also leading her own advocacy charge. Her mother, Barbara, has lived with Parkinson’s disease for twenty years. Her symptoms have recently intensified, requiring round-the-clock care.

This personal experience led Schlapman to partner with AbbVie on a new campaign. The initiative is called “Changing the Tune of Parkinson’s Disease.” Its goal is to empower patients and caregivers to speak openly with their doctors.

Schlapman moved her family to South Carolina to be closer to her parents. She credits her siblings with managing the bulk of her mother’s daily care needs. She calls her sister the “family quarterback” for coordinating the complex schedule.

The Critical Role of Community in Caregiving

Both women now understand the irreplaceable value of a strong support network. For Schlapman, it is not about her friends being experts on Parkinson’s. It is about them simply checking in and showing they care.

She emphasizes that the “fellowship of people who love you is really important for caregivers.” This support helps prevent burnout and isolation. It reminds those in demanding roles that they are not alone in their struggles.

This powerful alliance between Jenny Marrs and Kimberly Schlapman demonstrates how shared vulnerability can build unbreakable bonds. Their story highlights the critical importance of friendship during life’s most challenging chapters.

Thought you’d like to know-

How did Jenny Marrs and Kimberly Schlapman meet?

They initially connected through Instagram direct messages. Schlapman was a fan of the “Fixer to Fabulous” show and felt a kinship with the Marrs family.

What is Kimberly Schlapman’s new advocacy campaign?

She is the face of “Changing the Tune of Parkinson’s Disease.” The campaign encourages patients and families to communicate openly with doctors about their needs.

What common values do Marrs and Schlapman share?

Both women have spoken about their strong Christian faith and deep commitment to family. They also share experiences with adoption and supporting loved ones through illness.

How has Jenny Marrs supported Kimberly Schlapman?

Marrs provides emotional support and friendship as Schlapman navigates her mother’s Parkinson’s progression. Their bond is a mutual source of strength.

Why is caregiver support so important?

Schlapman states support prevents isolation and helps caregivers maintain their own health. Knowing others care makes a difficult journey feel less lonely.

Trusted Sources

EntertainmentNow, HGTV, People