Sunny Sunday

It was another pretty day. Church was great this morning. We have a kind and loving congregation at Wellspring Presbyterian Church, and it was good to worship together. The rest of the afternoon was spent with family and friends. I played a new board game with my brothers and sister-in-law on the back porch. The game was a birthday gift from Colin to Jenn. It’s called The Settlers of Catan and it’s a lot of fun. I am feeling free during the eight hours I am off the TPN. Paul Burton had to give me one little shot of insulin this afternoon, but my blood sugar has been stable the rest of the day.

This picture was taken yesterday. I have had such a wonderful weekend. I hope you did too.

Comments:

1. Heather Kirkwood Says:
   September 17th, 2006 at 10:14 pm e

   You’re looking great Katy!!!!

2. Jess Lankford Says:
   September 18th, 2006 at 7:48 am e

   Hey Katy!
   We love Settlers!!! I’m glad that you have been introduced to the game - now we’ll have to play!! Steve and Colleen are also in love with it! Colleen is very tricky though - she’ll act like she’s not paying atttention and than BAM!!! she wins the game!!

   I’m glad that you had a good weekend and that you are getting some time off TPN! (Is the plan still to be totally off by the end of the week?)

   Everytime we go past your house - Noah points and says “Katy’s house?? Katy’s house??” (We pray for you before bed I think he’s starting to make the connection - so exciting!!)

   Love ya!
   Jess

3. Andrea Russell Says:
   September 18th, 2006 at 9:38 am e

   Hi KATY,
   I just found out about your Blog!!! I hope your getting better and stronger each and every day. I havent been in church for a while but I’ll be back September 30th and I hope to see you there with your infectious SMILE !!!!!Take care sweetie and your in my prayers!

   Love Andrea

4. Karen Tillman Says:
   September 18th, 2006 at 11:28 am e

   Hey Katy,

   Isn’t it wonderful to be back in church!!! I know after a long illness how much it means to worship with others. I mean it is nice to worship at home, bt there is nothing like being in God’s house. I am counting our blessings everyday as you get better and better. I am at the hospital today and just had a few minutes and an available computer to check up on you. It is rather slow here today which is good. Gotta run for now.
   Love in Him
   Karen Tillman
   Regional Coordinator, Mid Atlantic USA
   Hermansky-Pudlak Syndrome Network Inc
   NC phone: 336 954 3604
   NY phone: 1 800 789 9477
   my email: till3604@bellsouth.net

5. Carrie Thompson Says:
   September 18th, 2006 at 5:31 pm e

   Katy,
   You look great! That’s one nice skirt.

   We are having so much fun at TI. Dad will join us Tuesday night.

   Love,
   Carrie

Short and Sweet

I only have a little energy and Mom has even less! Mom said, “Just tell everyone hello, we love you, and we’re doing great!” God Bless and goodnight!

-Katy

Comments:

1. Laura Griffith Says:
   September 15th, 2006 at 11:28 pm e

   Just want to say “goodnight John Boy”…I mean Katy Girl Actually, I wanted to be the first to post for once. I’m sorry you were exhausted. I hope being off the TPN didn’t cause problems. I’m praying for you now. Sweet dreams….zzzzzzz

2. Patricia Hagsten Says:
   September 16th, 2006 at 4:14 pm e

   Glad Dawn figured out the “patch” issue and your body is on a more even “keel”.
   Your mid-night prayer times really have become a blessing, haven’t they?
   Hope Paul forwarded the email I sent the other day….you may be a computer geek, but I’m more “computer challenged” and didn’t know how to email it to you directly.

3. Karen Tillman Says:
   September 16th, 2006 at 7:00 pm e

   God bless you too Katy, and good night.

   Karen Tillman
   Regional Coordinator Mid Atlantic USA
   Hermansky-Pudlak Syndrome Network
   NC phone # 336 954 3604
   NY phone # 1 800 789 9477
   my email: till3604@bellsouth.net

4. Carrie Thompson Says:
   September 16th, 2006 at 7:19 pm e

   Dear Katy,
   We are all packed up here–I’m excited!

   I love you, Katy! I’m glad you fiquired out about the “patches”. We will keep on praying for you.

   Love In Christ,
   Carrie(& the rest of the family)

5. linda kochendarfer Says:
   September 16th, 2006 at 7:27 pm e

   Katy,
   Just got back from the twin’s house. What a terrific visit! We’ve taken pictures, had a personal concert and met their mom, dad, and brother Jody. They are truly an amazing family. We’ll give you all the details when we get home next week. The additional similarities in your families is even greater than the things you’ve already mentioned. Katy, we have counted it a privilege to meet them. Thank you for allowing us the opportunity to be a bridge between you and the Sipes. We love you and are really looking forward to seeing you soon. Adam, Alyssa, and Kristina are with me and say “hi.”
   Mr. and Mrs. K

6. LInda Burk Says:
   September 27th, 2006 at 9:00 pm e

   HI..thinking of you…glad the line is out..and things sound wonderful………hugs, Linda and Jack

More Prayer Time

Katy finished her update last night at 10 PM and I read it thinking about how much I loved just being home and calm all day. Then at midnight Katy started complaining about her chest hurting. She was also shivering and had a fever. I quickly checked her PICC line for infection and her arm for swelling. Everthing seemed fine. So I thought about what I was seeing and went to my computer to check on drug withdrawal symptoms. Sure enough, I read the withdrawal symptoms of the patch she had been wearing for pain, and she had most of them. I am so thankful for the internet. By it we are able to get the help we need from the National Institutes of Health, stay in touch with family and friends, and look up helpful information in the middle of the night allowing Dr. Davenport and her associates to sleep! We put another patch on Katy since we still had two left and within a couple of hours she had calmed down and slept the rest of the night.

Today our doctor worked out a “step down” plan for coming off the pain medication, but we sure would appreciate your prayers in this matter. We are hoping for the least amount of disruption to Katy’s system. This evening we also started the tapering of the TPN allowing Katy to be free from the nutrition line for 8 hours tomorrow. She is very much looking forward to that.

We have mentioned before that we use the time of wakefulness in the night to pray. We have had many opportunities to pray for the Larry Fenzel family. Larry was diagnosed 3 weeks ago with Leukemia and passed away last Thursday. This wonderful husband and father of 7 will be greatly missed in our community and we are also praying for Katy’s new HPS friend, Candice, who at age 26 has been diagnosed with liver cancer. There are many needs, not just ours, and we are so thankful that we serve a God Whose arms are great enough to carry us all in the hard times.

We started our prayer times at the hospital to get us through the night. We began by praying for all the elderly people we knew and loved. During another painful sleepless time we prayed for people raising small children. One night, Katy and I prayed for four hours for friends who had broken families and for friends who have children now in heaven. We continued by praying for the broken and the broken-hearted. I began doing this to keep Katy’s mind off her pain and when we talk about those times now she remembers the praying rather than the pain. We know that this situation we find ourselves in will bear a lot of fruit. Sweet prayer time with my daughter is only one of them. As my friend, Linda, prayed today, “There is always fruit produced in the valley.”

Comments:

1. linda kochendarfer Says:
   September 15th, 2006 at 12:02 am e

   Katy,
   Adam and I are sitting in the camping trailer while it is thundering and raining outside. We are at 7800 feet elevation. We took a walk today in Bryce Canyon where the elevation was 9100 feet! We are glad you will be off your TPN for 8 hours tomorrow. We are heading back to Phoenix in the morning. Adam says to say hello and he hopes you feel better soon.
   Mrs. K and Adam

2. Candice & Crystal Sipe Says:
   September 15th, 2006 at 3:37 am e

   Hi Katy!

   Isn’t it amazing how we are blessed with the gift of prayer? Prayer is such a powerful tool. It’s hard for us to understand why we have to deal with illness. Especially when we are serving the Lord. We know the Lord is in total control and that he knows our hearts and he knows our needs. He sees the other side of everything. Even though we don’t know the outcome of these situations. God does and he has a bigger and better plan for us and we just need to remember to have faith and put all our trust in him. We are so excited for you. What an encouragement to be getting weaned off the TPN. I’m sure you’ll be glad to be free for 8 hours.
   Hope you have a WONDERFUL night. It is after 12:30am AZ time, so I must be getting to bed. Talk to you tomorrow.

   Love your sisters in Christ,
   Candice & Crystal

3. Jess Lankford Says:
   September 15th, 2006 at 12:08 pm e

   Dawn -
   Thank you for the post about prayer time! You have reminded me to look to heaven when things aren’t going my way. It sounds trivial - and I’m embarassed to admit it - but I’m a ‘chronic whiner’ and you and Katy have done so much to remind me of God’s goodness…even when I don’t see His hand immediatly! God is producing much fruit - in those who you come in contact with - just by you sharing your lives on this blog! Thank you for being open and vulnerable in a day and time when there is definitly not the norm!!

   I love you guys!
   Jess

4. Karen Tillman Says:
   September 15th, 2006 at 4:38 pm e

   Isn’t it funny how docs tend to forget to mention the tiny little things like withdrawals!!! I guess they hope it doesn’t happen so they don’t mention it. I know you are right about the prayer and thinking of others. The one thing a hospital brings to my forefront is that there is always someone down the hall in worse shape. I think that is what has alwyas gotten me through the tough times. Keep looking up and all this will be over before you know it!!!
   Love

Quiet Day

It is 10:00pm and I’m about to go to bed, but I wanted to update first. Mom says there are friends and family that check this site every day, and being a computer geek myself, I know how disappointing it is not to see new updates on “favorite” websites!

Today was a slow and quiet day, exactly what Mom and I needed. Two nights ago, I stayed up until 4am, because I was having abdominal issues (Mom was with me, so she didn’t sleep either). Once I did fall asleep, I slept in until I felt energized (10am!), so I thought I was okay to go “on with life”. Well, I quickly learned that staying awake half the night is bound to catch up with a person’s body sometime…in my case sooner than later! I woke up this morning instantly knowing that I better keep my favorite blanket near me. Mom and I spent the majority of the afternoon watching movies, or in other words, catching up on sleep. While we both have tasks to accomplish, we recognize that days of rest are gifts from God, so we’re both thankful for the opportunity to sleep today. God knows our needs before we do and directs our days accordingly.

The other answer to prayer for today is my pain level. Yesterday, my Fentanyl patch “ran out”. Ever since I returned home, I’ve been wearing a pain patch that I changed every 3 days. Yesterday morning when the patch expired, I decided not to change it. I wanted to see if I could tolerate the pain without having to take such a strong narcotic. I was feeling wonderful yesterday afternoon when I visited Dr. Davenport, but she said that was not a good judge of how I would do in the future, because the dose lasts in the body for awhile. She said, “Wait and see how you feel tomorrow. Take some Lortab for breakthrough pain, as needed. If you get really bad, just return to the Fentanyl patch”. Today is almost over and I’ve not needed the Lortab or Fentanyl patch! I will take medicine if the pain gets too bad, but for now, I seem to be doing well. This is especially good news, because we lowered the steroid dose by another 10mg this week. Most of today, though, the pain has stayed between 1-3 on the 10 point pain scale….even after enjoying some delicious meals such as chicken and stuffing!

Mom and Dad spent the evening watching a movie together, so I stayed upstairs talking to friends online and emailing people. I have a goal to email everyone who has commented on this Blog. I’m so thankful for the daily prayers and words of encouragement that I want to write to you personally. Be sure to check your inboxes in the coming days, because you might get an email that is NOT spam! Wouldn’t that be a wonderful change??

-Katy

Comments:

1. Julie Wensley Says:
   September 13th, 2006 at 11:24 pm e

   What a great rainy day for napping. I would have loved to join you! We’re praying for a great night tonight. Sleep well, dear Katy.

   I love you,
   ~Aunt Julie

2. Carrie Thompson Says:
   September 14th, 2006 at 7:22 am e

   Dear Katy,
   That’s great! We are leaving for the beach soon. I hope to check your blog while we are gone!

   You are still in our prayers & thoughts. Have a great day.

   Love,
   Carrie

3. Lael Moreland Says:
   September 14th, 2006 at 10:50 am e

   Hey Katy! What a wonderful picture you have up there. I’m sitting at school without breakfast and ready for lunch, and I’m staring at food and thinking of food and….oh never mind.
   Anyways, it was so good to see you for a few minutes yesterday! I wish I could have talked to you for awhile, but I thought maybe you were tired and wanted to go back to sleep. I would do the same! I hope that your day today is wonderful!
   Lael

4. Crystal La Brie Says:
   September 14th, 2006 at 10:57 am e

   Katy, I am so glad to hear your good news! I hadn’t read for a while so it was great to catch up on your pregress. I pray that things will continue to go well so you be able to have your TPN removed and be pain free. God bless you!

   Crystal

5. Jess Lankford Says:
   September 14th, 2006 at 2:09 pm e

   Ahhh your mom comes through for the ‘katy-blog-groupies’! I love it!
   I’m glad that you are able to ditch the meds for a while - that is a really good sign! And you have such a healthy perspective on it - if you need them, take them! (That was my attitude during the birth of both kids - and I ended up with drugs and that was just fine with me. I wanted to just ‘try’ and I was able to do that and feel good about it.)
   I’m jealous of the movie watching and sleeping!

   I’ll get back to you soon about the articles - I am planning on working on the newsletter this evening!
   Love ya!
   Jes

6. Davey Says:
   September 14th, 2006 at 3:41 pm e

   Hey Katy, that’s such great news, praise God!

7. Karen Tillman Says:
   September 15th, 2006 at 4:30 pm e

   Hey Katy,

   I am so glad that today went well for you. And pain meds are certainly a drag as most of the time they leave you drained cranky and tired…..add that to the steroid, and sometimes you feel as though you will go insane!!! I am so thankful that you are continueing to get better, and will continue praying for you and your family.
   Take care
   Karen Tillman

Our Hallelujah Day

Today we were able to visit Dr. Davenport and it was such a good time. We really love her. Our first surprise was at the weight scale. Katy weighed in today at 92 lbs. That is more than she has ever weighed in her lifetime. She has always had a goal to reach 100 lbs, but no matter how much she ate her highest weight was 88 lbs. What a great surprise for her. It also means that the calories she is now able to eat are enough to sustain her, even though most of those calories come from baby food or soft foods. Therefore, Dr. Davenport talked about setting a goal to remove the TPN. I asked her what time frame she had in mind, and she gave us our second big surprise by telling us she could remove it in her office by the end of next week if Katy is still continuing to progress. What a hallelujah day! Katy was beaming all afternoon.

I know as I write this that many of you are going to have your own hallelujah moment. Many of you have lifted Katy’s name before the Lord and He has been so gracious. I know that things may not always go that way, but for this season in Katy’s life, God is showing her His healing compassion, and for those of you who have hoped for this outcome and have been praying for this news it is our joy to share it with you. Your prayers have been treasures to us. How can we ever say thank you enough?

Dr. Davenport made an interesting comment today. She said, “Man, you guys have a lot of friends. I just talked to another surgeon last week about another case and he wanted to know if I had heard the news that Katy is now eating chicken!” Several times at the hospital the nurses commented on what great friends we have! We are blessed by the care we have received from so many of you, and Katy has commented several times how much it means to her. That kind of care and concern has helped keep her attitude up, and ours, in some pretty hard times. God bless you all and have a great day!

Comments:

1. Lynne Kilburn Says:
   September 12th, 2006 at 11:19 pm e

   Katy and Dawn,

   Wow, what a Hallelujah Day you’ve had!! My heart is over flowing with joy as I read your wonderful news on this very special day. It’s obvious that God has big plans for you in the future. Keep up the good work and it will soon be time for cake!!

   Love,
   ~Lynne

2. Karen Tillman Says:
   September 13th, 2006 at 12:12 am e

   Hey Katy,

   What great news!!! I know you will be happy to lose that IV line!!! They aren’t very fun to drag around for sure!! Each day I hear good things on your behalf and I am encouraged that you are on the road to recovery. Whatever you are doing keep it up, and yes, faith in God, the support of our friends, and a good attitude is what it takes to improve.
   Love ya
   Karen Tillman
   Regional Coordinator Mid Atlantic USA
   Hermansky-Pudlak Syndrome Network Inc
   NC phone # 336 954 3604
   NY phone # 1 800 789 9477
   my email till3604@bellsouth.net

3. Laura Griffith Says:
   September 13th, 2006 at 8:13 am e

   Way to go!!! Maryland isn’t far now Thanks for the congrats. I’ll pray you get to lose the TPN next week. Have a great day!

4. Barbara Walker Says:
   September 13th, 2006 at 11:41 am e

   To the Campbell Family,

   Hallelujah indeed!! The news just keeps getting better and better. What a testimony to God’s faithfulness!!
   All of you deserve this wonderful news!

   Love in Christ,

   The Walkers

5. Cecelia Says:
   September 13th, 2006 at 3:00 pm e

   Dawn, the sweet love of Jesus just flows through you, and I am blessed to be able to read of your cheerful news: Katy’s weight gain, her steady improvement, a good doctor to set an attainable goal of IV line removal, the renowned testimony of supportive friends and, best of all, God’s abiding faithfulness. No one knows and experiences victory like the Christian whose eyes are fixed on Jesus! The world shares this day and rejoices with you. God bless the Campbell family!
   With love,
   Cecelia

6. linda kochendarfer Says:
   September 13th, 2006 at 7:45 pm e

   Katy,
   All of us are sitting here at “base camp” in beautiful Utah. We are so glad to hear all the good news and hope we’re back in time to see the TPN removed. Our plan is to call the twins on Friday when we get back and go to see them Saturday morning. Mr. K is going to take lots of pictures to bring back to you; we’ll also try to get photos of their folks. We continue to pray for you even though we are far away.
   Love,
   Mrs. K

News From the Second Floor!

Hi everyone! Katy and I are in our computer room upstairs working on various things. Yes, Katy climbed the stairs last night! We moved several of her things out of the guest room hoping she would want to make the journey upstairs and she did it. One of her motivations for doing so had to do with her daddy. To best explain this I first have to tell you about the little foot long microwave heating pad called a “bed buddy.” The idea is to heat it up for two minutes in the microwave and take it to bed with you to warm your feet, hands, or use on tired, aching, muscles. Well, last week I heard Paul say, “Katy, we need to speed up your healing so mom can sleep with me. I miss my bed buddy!” You heard it here folks!

This morning at 5:30 I heard Katy call me from her room. I quickly made my way down the hall to find her sitting up in bed. She said, “Mom I’m hungry!” I was so grateful to God for those words! I went downstairs to warm a jar of baby oatmeal and it was so much fun to watch her gobble it down.

Our church “small group” met in our home last night so that we could be home to take care of Katy. Before they left, one of our friends offered to stay with Katy for awhile today so I could go out and run some errands. I have really appreciated those offers of help. When Trisha left this afternoon Katy said, “I tried not to talk her head off but she was just so much fun to talk to.” I just had to laugh. It was only 3 weeks ago that Katy asked me to speak for her when people asked questions because it was so tiring to answer. Look out world, Katy is coming back!

Comments:

1. Sandy Says:
   September 11th, 2006 at 4:33 pm e

   Hey Katy!

   It is so great to hear how you are progressing each day. The computer I’m usually on doesn’t let me comment, so now that I’m on a different one, I just had to let you know how I excited I am to to hear about your improvements. God is good! I hope that baby oatmeal hit the spot.

   Love ya.

2. Karen Tillman Says:
   September 11th, 2006 at 7:52 pm e

   Hey Katy and Family,

   I know that you are so happy to finally get back to a little normalcy!! It is so wonderful when God puts people in our lives that make our burdens lighter. I am so happy for you all and pray that Katy will continue to improve!!!
   Love
   Karen Tillman
   Regional Coordinator, Mid Atlantic USA
   Hermansky-Pudlak Syndrome Inc
   NC phone # 336 954 3604
   NY phone # 1 800 789 9477
   my email: till3604@bellsouth.net

3. Mike Francis Says:
   September 11th, 2006 at 11:45 pm e

   Hi Katy and family:)

   Talked to Kelly a few days ago. She told me how Katy had been feeling and the circumstances. Just want you to know how much your family means to me. The love and kindness you have shown to me and my family cannot be measured in words. You are truly special people!

   I thought of you recently when my cousin Danny passed away. Thank you for thinking of us in that time of need. The card was lovely. Your support with my mother prepared me to handle the difficult task of saying goodbye to him.

   Just wanted you to know that I was thinking of you all. Will be in next weekend for Trey and Sierra’s birthdays:) 20th and 24th… Will try and come by to see you guys if it is not too much trouble k? We are thinking of you Katy and love ya bunches.

   Mike Francis…

4. Danae Says:
   September 12th, 2006 at 12:26 am e

   Great job, Katy!! I pray you will be able to make many more trips upstairs!

   I got your E-mail. I’m sorry I haven’t been on AIM in a while. I’ve been absolutly swamped! But I got a roommate on Sunday! Yay!

   I love you!
   Danae

5. Jess Lankford Says:
   September 12th, 2006 at 9:17 am e

   Hey Katy!
   Congrats on making it to the 2nd floor! You’re “moving up” in life! Glad to hear that you are making continual progress! It was really great to see you at church on Sunday - you looked wonderful - sitting over there with your family! I’m glad that you were able to go worship. I hope it didn’t wear you out too much!

   If you get a chance - email me today - I have a question for you about the visibility of the overhead songs… Lankford_jessica@bah.com

   Love ya!
   Jes

6. Laura Griffith Says:
   September 12th, 2006 at 11:29 am e

   Loretta was delivered by C-Section on 9/11 at 5:44 PM. She is 19 inches and 7.5 pounds. Thank you for your prayers.
   Katie has a half-sister that was born five years ago on 9/11 at the same hospital, same room, and same situation of being the only pregnant patient.
   Now that your updated…I’m so glad you went upstairs. Hope coming down is easier. I’m very happy today Maybe it will be catching

   Praying for you,
   Granny Griffith

7. Jennifer Blugerman Says:
   September 12th, 2006 at 11:33 am e

   Katy, how wonderful it was to see you at church! How we have missed your face among us, each smile full of worship! Emma talked on and on about being able to sign the Lord’s Prayer for YOU! She has missed seeing you sign the worship songs. Congratulations on being able to eat a bit again and on scaling new heights in your home! Also, FYI, Laura Griffith’s daughter, Katie, had her baby, Loretta, yesterday evening (9/11) by C-section. Larua is now officially a Granny! All are well. God is good!

   Love,
   -Jennifer B.

8. Lynne Kilburn Says:
   September 12th, 2006 at 11:59 am e

   Hey Katie!

   Now that you’ve made it to church, upstairs to your room and out shopping, I can see that chocolate cake getting here in no time! I’m ready when you are!!

   Hang in there kiddo!

   Love,
   Lynne

9. Kim Says:
   September 12th, 2006 at 4:00 pm e

   Hi Katy!

   I wake up every morning and go to your blog to see how you are doing. I am so glad you are doing better. My family prays for you daily!
   I have spoken to your mom before on the phone. We just got our travel approval to go to China to adopt our daughter Faith Lan Ya. We will have her tested for HPS as soon as we get home.
   If you are bored and would like to check out our site, it’s at www.langadoption.com

   Many MANY Blessings! I look forward to reading more of your journal!
   Kim

10. Kristin Dunker Says:
    September 12th, 2006 at 4:52 pm e

    So delighted to hear all the good news! Celebrating with you…~Kristin

11. Gene & Shirley Murphy Says:
    September 12th, 2006 at 8:50 pm e

    Katy, We have been following the Blog and are so pleased to see your progress each day. We have been praying for you and your family and are so thankful to see what God is doing in your lives. We would like to come and visit or stay with you sometime when your mom needs to be away. I wanted to stop after church one
    Sunday but the nurse said your were sleeping.

    On another thought, a belated Happy Birthday to a great gal. You are an inspiration to so many, including me.

    Much love, and we hope to see you soon.
    Gene and Shirley

Saturday Fun

This morning when we woke up, Mom said to me, “How would you like to go to Olde Salem Days?” (an outside craft show). Of course I jumped at the prospect of getting out and having some fun! Mom wanted Dad to go along, so he could push my new light-weight wheelchair. She also wanted to create some new family memories. Our agenda was not quite the same as Dad’s though; he came downstairs dressed in his mowing outfit! Mom kindly asked his permission to play instead of work and, fortunately for us girls, he agreed! So, off to Salem we went. The ride into town was beautiful and only added to the pleasantness of the excursion. Once we arrived, I sat in the wheelchair, while holding an umbrella over my head to protect me from the sunlight. The three of us “walked” down the streets of Salem looking at the many booths, oohhing and aahhing at our favorite exhibits. Dad even got a wonderful surprise! When we first arrived, we noticed old cars parked along one street. It turned out that at the edge of every street, there were 1930s-1960s cars displayed for people to admire and reminisce. Below is a picture of a 1961 Bugeye Sprite- the car Dad and Mom drove together when they first got married. Other treasures of our trip included 2 new Christmas outfits for my American Girl dolls, a delicious head of cabbage Mom got for a $1.00, and a bag of fresh green beans. Below, I’ve also posted a picture of me snapping the green beans…something I love to do! This “mini vacation” was such a treat…the kind of adventure that makes you want to pinch yourself to make sure you’re living in reality!

In other news, I ran out of lancets (the little sticks used to collect the blood for testing) for my glucometer a few days ago. Mom called several local pharmacies to get replacements and, after no success, decided to buy a new glucometer that was more standard. Paul Burton picked up the machine on his way home from work and I decided to get it ready for Mom. Little did I know how easy the machine would be use! By the time I had gone through all the “first time use” directions, I had tested my own blood sugar…including pricking my finger! Mom was pleasantly surprised and happy to give up the job. I was so excited about being able to do this myself that Mom jokingly cautioned me not to be checking it every hour. No chance of that!

The Bugeye Sprite

Katy snapping green beans:

Comments:

1. Nancy Owens Says:
   September 9th, 2006 at 8:55 pm e

   Dear Katy - I am catching up on your blog and seeing how you are doing. Things sound so good. You are such an encouragement - a reminder to us of all that is truly important. I am writing this while sitting in Caree’s apartment in Bangalore, India. Yes, I am thinking of you while I am here - rushing through the streets trying to shop. We went out yesterday and bought groceries - such a challenge. Had to go to three stores to get stuff for baked spaghetti. Praying for you. So glad you are getting better. Love, Nancy Owens

2. Jess Lankford Says:
   September 9th, 2006 at 9:49 pm e

   Katy-Lady!
   Reading your blog is one of the highlights of my day! I find that I am so often encouraged by the things that you share…You find joy in cracking beans - and it reminds me to find joy in those little mundane moments which really aren’t nearly as mundane as I would like to make them out to be! As I was reading about your outing - I thought of Anne of Green Gables - and smiled. Your outing to town reminds me of the way the ‘wide-eyed’ Anne viewed things when she first came to Green Gables. (I loved the Anne books growing up - so the fact that you remind me of her - well…it makes you a kindred spirit!) Don’t know where I’m going with this post - but wanted to let you know that I’m praying for you daily, I’m amazed by your spirit and courage, and can’t wait to see you again in church!

   Love ya!
   Jess

3. Laura Griffith Says:
   September 10th, 2006 at 5:04 pm e

   It was so good seeing you “out” at Wellspring I wanted to say “HI” but you had so many wanting the same that I kept passing you by and then you must of went “bye bye” because I didn’t see you again. Hope it wasn’t too much for you. Actually, I’ve been to Salem days and if you can get through that, Wellspring is a cinch. Still in our prayers and still waiting on that grandbaby.

4. Ryan Kirkwood Says:
   September 10th, 2006 at 7:31 pm e

   It is great to hear you are doing so well and having so much fun. That was a nice looking car your parents have good taste. Although it would look better in Red. Apparently my sister was to have given you my email so I will just leave it hear for you. Have a great day tomorrow and I look forward to hearing from you. ryaniankirkwood@yahoo.com

5. Cecelia Says:
   September 10th, 2006 at 9:40 pm e

   Katy, what can I say? God is so immense! He’s so much bigger than even the breath we expel to say His name. How I glorify God for your life, and I share all the same beautiful blog messages in praying for continued healing, strength and patience. I am elated at the news of your Roanoke doctors, right down to the detail that God provided a reunion! That must have just “blown you & your Mom away”! Hallelujah!

   Continuing to lift you and your family in prayer,
   With Christian love,
   Cecelia

More Good News

We went to a Doctor’s appointment early this morning and had a chance to see one of Katy’s doctors who had not seen her since she left the hospital. This dear lady was such an encouragement and I think Katy’s good health may have surprised her! Dr. Emily Doherty has just moved to Roanoke with her husband, and she has had experience with HPS and worked in Bethesda with the doctors there who will be seeing Katy. Dr. Doherty has been helpful in putting a team together to manage Katy’s care here in Roanoke. We have had some great care for Katy right here in the Roanoke Valley and it has made all the difference in our ability to meet Katy’s needs. We are so thankful for that.

One of the great surprises of this morning happened when Dr. Doherty asked Katy to let one of her colleagues check a problem Katy was having with her knee. When the doctor came into the room I recognized her as the Indian woman who spoke Gujararti (Katy’s native language) to Katy when she first arrived in Roanoke and didn’t understand English. That was 18 years ago. Dr. Desai was just as amazed as we were. She had often thought of Katy and remembered her as a 4 year old in this strange new land. It was Dr. Desai who taught her to sit on a toilet rather than stand and squat as she did in the orphanage. It was a fun reunion and we all hugged in the end! And in other good news it appears that the damage to Katy’s knee during her spasms may heal on its own with time and exercise.

The recovery from this bout of intestinal inflamation is going very well. That means that by this time next week, if Katy is still eating 800 calories a day, her TPN will be removed for 8 hours a day. This news has her thinking. She said with a grin, “I just am happy about doing normal things like taking a shower, going places, and freedom.” Ah, thank God for the little things!

Comments:

1. Linda Kochendarfer Says:
   September 8th, 2006 at 8:01 pm e

   Katy,
   My grandson Adam and my granddaughter Alyssa are with me while I type this. We have all just looked at the pictures of you on your blog. I am so happy you got to eat some chicken yesterday! How wonderful that you could also meet the doctor who helped you when you were just four. We miss you and are sending along a postcard of some pretty country we hiked in yesterday; Alyssa sends her love and Adam says hi to you. Know that we continue to pray for you each day and are excited God is blessing you with strength. We can’t wait to see you without your TPN backpack. Freedom at last!
   Love,
   Mr.and Mrs. K and Adam and Alyssa

2. Carrie Thompson Says:
   September 8th, 2006 at 9:43 pm e

   Dear Katy,
   It is so wonderful to hear you are doing better! Won’t it be good to have that kind of freedom.

   ‘Round here everybody is in bed–the rest of the family is somewhere in Ketchican, AK!

   Lots of Love,
   Carrie

3. Heather Kirkwood Says:
   September 8th, 2006 at 10:06 pm e

   Wow! It’s really amazing the doctors God has put in your path during this journey! I’m still just amazed that you’d find someone with experience with HPS so close to home. There’s no one in Kansas City that has any experience with it. My doctor and I just wing it together with the help of NIH if anything worrying comes up. And then to find this long lost connection - how amazing is that! Miracles do happen! Isn’t it funny how some people never notice the miracles all around them? But, I know you and your family have seen them all along this journey.

4. Aunt Judy Says:
   September 9th, 2006 at 12:57 pm e

   Hey Katy!
   Chicken sounds good! It won’t be long ’til you’re eating all kinds of food! Yum!
   I was showing Uncle Todd the pictures from Granddaddy’s birthday party and when he saw the picture of Aunt Jackie, Heather and Laura he said, “Simon says, ‘Hold your ankle.’” That’s Uncle Todd for you.
   Love,
   Aunt Judy

5. Karen Tillman Says:
   September 9th, 2006 at 5:25 pm e

   Hey Katy,

   I am truly thrilled at the progress you are making. Our god is truly an awesome God!!! Take care and will write again soon. Been up since 5am doing the yard sale thing!! Ugh!!!!
   love
   Karen Tillman

Wednesday

Katy and I had a great day. We waited until tonight to share the news that at noon today, Katy ate her first few bites of chicken. Real chicken! Not ground, pureed, or from a jar! We waited because we wanted to be sure it stayed down and didn’t cause a problem. She is feeling great. Her outlook this afternoon was downright bubbly. She is counting on getting free from the TPN soon. There are several HPS friends that have endured many months on TPN. Our hearts go out to them; it is not easy to deal with week after week. I count them among some of the most courageous people I have had the joy of getting to know, and I am grateful for the way they have encouraged Katy by saying things like, “It does get better!”

The chicken was a rotisserie chicken that I bought and brought home hot. The aroma filled the kitchen and Katy decided to chance a few bites, because the smell was getting to her. She chewed it slowly with her eyes closed. I wish I had taken a picture.

Many of you prayed specifically that Katy would be able to eat. Today was a giant step forward, and an answer to prayer. Thank you all so much for your prayers. We’re so happy to report this news!

Comments:

1. Jess Lankford Says:
   September 6th, 2006 at 9:55 pm e

   Yeaaaa for chicken!!! I’m so happy for you Katy! I’m glad that it didn’t cause you pain and that you were able to savor the taste! It will be no time until you are able to eat that big chocolate birthday cake!! I’m sitting at the kitchen table - staring at my computer with a big silly grin on my face - happy for my friend and thankful for a God who answers prayers!!

   We love ya!
   Jes

2. Heather Kirkwood Says:
   September 6th, 2006 at 10:24 pm e

   Bok, bok, gobble, gobble, let’s hear it for chicken!!! I pretty much live on chicken! My dad couldn’t eat red meat when I was growing up, so we ate chicken and fish. For a month I had to track everything I ate not too long ago, so I put it on the blog - and pretty soon all the google ads (placed via words that appear often) were for chicken recipies! HA!!!!

   I’m so glad you were able to eat some “solid” food, and that it went so well. Way to go! And yes, God does answer prayer, and it DOES GET BETTER!!!! Grin!

3. Lynne Kilburn Says:
   September 6th, 2006 at 11:17 pm e

   Oh Katy! That Death by Chocolate Cake is not far away! I can hardly wait!

   Glad you enjoyed your chicken and pray you have a restful night!

   Love,

   Lynne

4. Barbara Walker Says:
   September 7th, 2006 at 10:07 am e

   Praise the Lord - He is so good!! Direct answer to prayer gives us such joy!!

   You’re doing great Katy!

   Love,

   Barbara

5. Laura Griffith Says:
   September 7th, 2006 at 3:42 pm e

   Just letting you know I’m still reading the blog everyday and sometimes checking several times for the update. I don’t always comment but maybe I should until you can figure out the counter thing for your site. I know the picture of the cake makes my mouth water. Do you know that there is also “Death by Chocolate” ice cream. It’s a premium Kroger brand, very good. Glad to hear the chicken stayed down and pray that your menu gets to expand soon.

6. Sarah Says:
   September 7th, 2006 at 10:26 pm e

   Katy!! That is such good news!! What a tasty first thing to eat, too! Praising God with you as you continue to improve day by day. His mercies are new every morning!!

   Love and prayers going out to you!
   Sarah

   Btw… LOVE the banner pic! Yum!!

7. Karen Tillman Says:
   September 8th, 2006 at 12:23 am e

   Hey Katy!!! Way to go!!!! I certainly know how you felt getting those first bites of food after being on TPN for a month. I remember one of the first meals I had was meatloaf, and it was soooooo goooood!!! Anyway, I will continue to pray that you will keep improving, and so will my family and friends locally and in the HPS Network. Take care and good night.
   Karen Tillman
   Regional Coordinator, Mid Atlantic USA
   Hermansky-Pudlak Syndrome Network Inc
   NC phone # 336 954 3604
   NY phone # 1 800 789 9477
   my email: till3604@bellsouth.net

8. LInda Burk Says:
   September 17th, 2006 at 10:07 pm e

   HI..I love the picture of you today with the roses…I sensed a feeling of calmness…….Paul Burton is another blessing with his medical knowledge..I feel the same way with my daughter Maggie..we had a neighborhood picnic at someone’s home on SAt for about 80 people..I was on the committee./glad the rain stayed away..everyone had fun..back to school night last week went well.. praise the Lord..hugs to all, Linda

Great Start

It’s Tuesday and we are off to a good start this morning. We think we have solved the mystery of the blood sugar problem. Paul prayed Sunday night that whatever was wrong would be corrected quickly and that Katy would get the rest she needed. His prayer may have been answered early Monday morning. Katy’s TPN pump sounded an alarm and gave me a “malfunction” message. I was unable to successfully restart the pump and called the Pharmacy. It took 7 hours to get a new pump delivered and running so Katy was able to be free of her tubing and TPN backpack which she stated, “was a birthday bonus.”

Since reconnecting to a new pump, I have not had to give her a single insulin injection! If I’m right, the problem was the TPN pump not giving her the proper amount of nutrition, throwing her sugar levels off. The small pump is a computer, and as we all know, the technology is terrific when it’s running right.

We had several short and sweet visits from friends yesterday. Katy was so happy. As Ryan Kirkwood wrote on her blog, inspite of all the hard stuff of late, she was here to enjoy her day. When she can have a celebration with cake she has requested “Death by Chocolate” from The Wildflour, a local bakery. What a girl!

Comments:

1. Katie Bowles Says:
   September 5th, 2006 at 2:18 pm e

   Hello Katy! Wow, I haven’t seen you or your family in a long time. I think we need to change that. I’m so sorry you’re not feeling too well, but I know things will get better for you soon. Lynne came to my house lastnight for dinner with my family and I told her I wanted to come and visit you. Hopefully I will get to come see you soon. I was reading everything on your website, guess what, you arrived in the U.S. the day I was born. (May 2, 1989) Well I’m in school now and I’m getting ready to leave but I hope you are feeling better. Tell your family I said hello.
   Love, Katie Bowles

2. Patricia Hagsten Says:
   September 5th, 2006 at 3:45 pm e

   Hi, Dawn!
   Happy belated 22nd birthday to Katie!
   Your home balance and calm along with your abiding faith are certainly having a wonderful influence on her and her recovery.
   You’re in our thoughts and prayers. Sorry, I hadn’t put this blog in My Favorites and simple couldn’t recall what it was…a bit of “half-heimers,” I’m afraid.
   That’s quite a wooden swing you have…and Katy & Paul looked great outside together. How is her dog taking to all her absences, etc.?
   Where are you working?
   Ib has been gone for 3 weeks…so soon after being overseas in Azerbaijan for 2 more weeks. I looked at the calendar on Saturday and realized he has been in Kansas City just 3 weeks since Feb. 23
   Shalom

3. Lynne Kilburn Says:
   September 5th, 2006 at 4:25 pm e

   Hi Katy!

   Glad you had a good birthday. “Death by Chocolate” - how wonderful would that be!! When you are ready for cake, day or night, call me and I will bring it over and just the two of us will eat the whole thing!! I don’t share chocolate with just anyone!!

   Sounds like you are feeling a little better each day, which is what everyone is praying for, as well as some good restful nights.

   You are always in my prayers.

   Love,

   Lynne

4. Katie Bowles Says:
   September 5th, 2006 at 5:11 pm e

   Hey it’s KT again… I work at a store called Katie’s Ice Cream and Chocolates. When you’re feeling better I can bring you any ice cream, yogurt, ice cream cake, chocolate(s), or candy that you would like. Just let me know what your favorite is. (your family as well)Have a great rest of the day.
   Love
   KT

5. Heather Kirkwood Says:
   September 5th, 2006 at 7:21 pm e

   What a way to go!!!!! Last year I was at NIH for my birthday getting a lung lavage - Ryan bought me the most wonderful chocolate cake from some local French bakery! Karen was there with me - she can back me up on this - it was YUMMY!

   Mmoe later - first day back at work, and I’m buried in work! And now I’ve got a craving! Grin!

6. Lynne Kilburn Says:
   September 6th, 2006 at 1:05 pm e

   Hi Katie,

   I wanted to tell you how much I enjoy your blog and let you know that I am using it at work to help educate some of the students that pass through our office. We are partnering with VCOM at Va Tech and have anywhere from 1 - 4 medical students per month that spend time with us. I show them your blog and give them the web address, as well as tell them some about Kristi and some of her experiences. If the future professionals in healthcare can walk in our shoes just a little, maybe things will be a little better for the next one of us that is in need of medical care.

   Thanks again for sharing with all of us.

   Love,
   Lynne

7. Karen Tillman Says:
   September 6th, 2006 at 5:24 pm e

   Hey Katy,

   I am so sry that I missed you b’day, and a few other days before. It has been very busy, and I have been a little under the weather, but I am up and running once again!!! We were out of town on Monday, so Happy Belated Birthday!!!! I’m so glad that you are here, and getting better!!!! Gotta run, as I am going to take a short nap myself before I fix dinner. Take care
   Love and God Bless
   Karen Tillman
   Regional Coordinator, Mid Atlantic USA
   Hermansk-Pudlak Syndrome Network Inc.
   NC phone # 336 954 3604
   NY phone # 1 800 689-9477
   my email till3604@bellsouth.net

8. Aunt Judy Says:
   September 6th, 2006 at 5:39 pm e

   Dear Katy,
   Whoops! It’s been several days since I’ve been on the computer. I did remember your birthday I just didn’t let you know I remembered it! (: So now I’ll say HAPPY LATE BIRTHDAY!!!!!

   It’s been a busy few weeks. This past Sunday I started teaching 1-3rd grade Sunday school. It requires a bit of preparation but it’s so much fun! Then on Tuesday Wes and I started school and in the afternoon Nate and I went to pay his tuition and buy his books. Gulp! Today was the first day of COOP. I have seven wonderful knitting students. They are all so excited to learn! I have ten Jr. High Drawing students and they are really enthusiastic and excited about improving their drawing skills. Happy, excited students make teaching a pleasure.
   I’m so glad to hear of your daily strenghthening. You are a blessing to me. I concur with your parents that the whole Campbell family recieved a blessing from the Lord when He allowed you to become a part of our family.
   God Bless you dear Katy.
   Love,
   Aunt Judy

Celebrations

On a typical birthday at our house, the birthday person gets to choose their birthday dinner, and we all get together to enjoy the food, cake, and presents. On this day, we are all getting together to celebrate the fact that Katy is here, and that God has been merciful. The sobering events of the past two months have sent us back to the basics!

Since Katy is the first to check her Blog update this part of the message is for her. Daddy and I are delighted you were born, Happy Birthday! To your birth parents we would like to say, “Thank you for chosing life for Katy, she has been precious to us.” And to our Heavenly Father we do say, “Thank you that the plan you had for Katy’s life included us.” We love you.

Finally, Katy, here is a Happy Birthday message from the pages of God’s love story to us:

“The Lord our God is with you, He is mighty to save. The Lord our God takes great delight in you, He will quiet you with His love, and rejoices over you with singing.” Zeph 3:17

Love, Mom and Daddy

Comments:

1. Sidu and Jillcha Says:
   September 4th, 2006 at 12:34 pm e

   Dear Katy,
   Haaaaaaaaaaaaaaapppppppppppyyyyyyyyy Birrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrthday…………….!!!

   Blessed be the Lord for giving the world such a wonderful person like you. May the Lord continually strengthen you in this difficult journey.

2. Heather Kirkwood Says:
   September 4th, 2006 at 12:51 pm e

   HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU! HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU! HAPPY BIRTHDAY DEAR KATY, HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU! Okay, it’s much better when you can actually sing it. Happy Birthday, and many more!

3. Linda Kochendarfer Says:
   September 4th, 2006 at 1:17 pm e

   Katy,
   I have prayed for you even this morning. Rich and I are sending along “Happy Birthday” geetings and thanking the Lord that you, your mom and dad and Paul Burton are part of our Wellspring family! May this day be one for celebrating your life and God’s providential care over you, especially these past two months. Our love is with you, Katy.
   Mr. and Mrs. K

4. Candice & Crystal Sipe Says:
   September 4th, 2006 at 2:35 pm e

   Happy Birthday Katy!!

   What a joy it has been getting to know you these past two weeks. You are a strong young woman, and I know the Lord has blessed you with a wonderful family who loves you and supports you. You have inspired the two of us, in the way that you live your life for Christ. May God continue to send you blessings throughout the year and many years to come.

   Thanks for all your encouragment!!
   Love,
   Candice & Crystal

5. Sally Ludwig Says:
   September 4th, 2006 at 5:40 pm e

   Hi Katy,
   I wish you a Very Happy Birthday!
   I am thinking of you and your family. I am thrilled with your progress and your good attitude.
   Sally Ludwig

6. Whitney Says:
   September 4th, 2006 at 7:54 pm e

   Hi Katy!
   Hope you’re having a happy, happy birthday! I’m praying that your sugar will get back on an even keel and that you’ll have a great night’s rest tonight. Enjoy your day today, Katy! Happy birthday!
   Love,
   Whitney

7. Grandma & Granddad Says:
   September 4th, 2006 at 8:41 pm e

   Happy Birthday Dear Katy. We sent a birthday card on Friday assuming that you would get it on Saturday or today, your birthday. But, if you didn’t get it on Saturday, you will get it tomorrow because there was no mail delivery today, being Labor Day.

   You have been a precious granddaughter all these many years and we look forward to seeing you again soon.

   We love you dearly and pray for you throughout each day. We trust that you had a good time on your birthday with your wonderful family. They all love you so much.

   Have a good night and sleep tight.

   Grandmom & Granddad

8. Kristin Dunker Says:
   September 4th, 2006 at 9:12 pm e

   Hi Katy,
   I hope this day was a good one, no, a GREAT one for you! I know you spent it thanking God for all the blessings that He has brought your way, as we (those who know you) are thanking God for the gift He gave the world today (22 years ago)…you! You are such a wonderful example of gentleness and kindness - His love shines from your life. Happiest of Birthdays, ~Kristin

9. Carrie Thompson Says:
   September 5th, 2006 at 7:38 am e

   Dear Katy,
   Happy Birthday! I’m sorry I haven’t posted lately, but the internet has been down.

   As you might expect, we are having a great time–even though Mom & Dad are gone. Haha!!

   I love you, Katy! You are in my prayers & thoughts.

   Love,
   Carrie

10. Maylin Says:
    September 5th, 2006 at 11:23 am e

    Katy, I hope you had a wonderful birthday, and I’m so glad you were feeling better!

11. Lillian Oliveira Says:
    September 5th, 2006 at 6:11 pm e

    Dearest Katy, I missed your birthday! I’m so glad it seems that God gave you a happy one! We have had so much company of late that I haven’t had much time to do mail. We are so glad that the sugar/insulin problem seems to be solved, and keep praying that God will bring you back to a more comfortable life style soon. He is mighty to save and heal! And I HAVE remembered to pray for you, nearly every single day.

    I miss the family back east so much and wish there were a way I could spend more time with all of you. What a blessing it was to have you with me last Christmas!

    Perhaps the Lord has more such wonderful suprises in store for us. Because He “delights to give good gifts to His children”.

    God bless you, Katykins, and help you to sleep through the nights. I have a granddaughter about your age, Jessica, who has Multiple Sclerosis- she also is having trouble sleeping at night. She is in college and when I talked to her yesterday she sounded so exhausted, so I’m praying for her,too.

    All for now, Aunt Lil for Uncle Tony, too.

Hello Friends of Katy

Our interesting night started at 2:30 AM with Katy saying her body was shaking and she felt weak. I asked if I could check her blood sugar (a stick in the finger) but she was more interested in having a cup of vanilla rice milk. So she drank that and about 20 minutes later was much worse. I got up to check her blood sugar level and it was 186. So the vanilla rice milk was sending her sugar in the wrong direction. From that time on I have been checking her blood sugar every 2 hours and she has needed insulin every time. I’m not sure what to think about all this! A call to the Home Health care nurse brought her out for a blood test and she called back with the lab report tonight. Everything was fine but her blood sugar was elevated. We were awake most of the night last night. Tonight Paul Burton is going to monitor her sugar level until 4 am so I can get some sleep. I am really hoping that whatever this problem is will be temporary. We sure appreciate your prayers.

Comments:

1. Julie Wensley Says:
   September 3rd, 2006 at 10:26 pm e

   HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU! (tomorrow)

   We are praying you get some rest tonight. And about the sugar/insulin problem.

   We love you!

   ~Aunt Julie

2. Ryan Kirkwood Says:
   September 3rd, 2006 at 11:41 pm e

   Dear Katy and family
   First things first Happy Birthday I wish you the best for this day. Reflect on this despite all of the challenges you have been having with your health you are here to celebrate this birthday and as each time goes by you seem to be having more good days then not just think of what the next year will bring. Have fun with your Constitutional Law course it is challenging yet very interesting. As alway know that there are many out there in the HPS community thinking of and praying for you.

3. Rich Kochendarfer Says:
   September 4th, 2006 at 7:06 am e

   Happy Birthday Katy. I pray that God would bless this day in your life in the same way that we have been blessed by knowing you. God, through Jesus Christ, really does make us to be a people, who were not a people.

4. Jen Larson Says:
   September 4th, 2006 at 8:41 am e

   HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!!!!!!!
   I’m still praying for you and your precious family. When I saw Colin and Jenn at church yesterday it reminded me I hadn’t commented on here in awhile. Thanks for keeping us all updated. Love you sweetie! =)

5. Aunt Doris Says:
   September 4th, 2006 at 9:45 am e

   Happy Birthday, Katy! I pray that your blood sugar problem will be brought under control. God has blessed you with a wonderful family! And may God bless them for their care of you!

6. Fairlight Says:
   September 4th, 2006 at 10:23 am e

   Happy, happy birthday! Praying that your blood sugar will settle down and that you’ll have a wonderful day today…

7. Laura Says:
   September 4th, 2006 at 10:46 am e

   “Happy Birthday to you, Happy Birthday to YOU, HAPPY BIRTHDAY, dear KATY, Happy Birthday to YOU!!!!!!!” It’s your birthday, it’s your birthday, we’re gonna party like it’s your birthday, cause well it is. hehe And this time when I say it’s your birthday, it really is. I hope you have a SUPERDEDUPER AWESOMAZING SUPERCALADRAGALISTICEXPALDOCUS (I have no idea how to spell that word, but hey, it’s close enough) DAY!!!!!!!!!!!

   Love ya bunches of bananas,
   LAura : )

8. Laura Griffith Says:
   September 4th, 2006 at 11:41 am e

   I’m actually posting on your birthday! I’m glad to know it is your special day. I pray the Lord will continue to bless you greatly. Enjoy your family and friends as they celebrate with you. We are thinking of you.

   God Bless,
   Laura

9. Lynne Kilburn Says:
   September 4th, 2006 at 11:45 am e

   Happy, Happy Birthday Katy!!

   I am praying for a day of no pain for you and hope your day is filled with much happiness and many blessings.

   Love,
   Lynne

10. Cecelia Says:
    September 4th, 2006 at 12:12 pm e

    Happy birthday, Katy! May God bless your day as you are surrounded by the loving support of your family and friends. Praying you through EVERY day, but especially THIS day. He is Lord.

    John 17:3 says to know Him is life eternal. I thank God for giving me a heart that feels and knows and shares the burdens of my friends. Without Him I could not experience this eternal life nor His love and grace as I hold you and your family up in prayer. I love you and may God go with you.

11. Chris Griffith Says:
    September 4th, 2006 at 12:18 pm e

    Katy

    I wish you a very happy Birthday!

    The Lord bless you and keep you;
    the Lord make his face to shine upon you and be gracious to you;
    the Lord lift up his countenance upon you and give you peace.

    May your delight be in the Lord Christ above all other things.
    May you cherish him and delight in his goodness forever.

    Sincerely
    Chris

12. DeeDee Says:
    September 4th, 2006 at 8:33 pm e

    Dearest Katy,
    I hope your birthday has been a truly enjoyable one, shared with family and the assurance of God’s everlasting love. My son once told me that a birthday is wonderful for two reasons….it is the celebration of another year of life and also one day closer to our life with Christ. May you rejoice in the wonderful life God blessed you with by placing you in your earthly family and the wonderful family of believers with whom we will all share eternity.
    Happy birthday Katy. Love, DeeDee

Moving Forward

Today has been a wonderful Saturday! The two days of rain moved out this morning, leaving blue skies that were calm and clear. The temperatures also lowered to the 70s, so it was very pleasant outside. I ate my lunch on the back porch and basked in God’s goodness.

Speaking of eating, I was getting tired of pureed baby food. So for dinner, I tried a stage 3 meal, which contained small chunks of vegetables and other food. I ate a small bowl of turkey and rice. The pain was minimal, I had no acid reflux, and the food stayed down. Actually, my stomach is feeling very content right now! I am excited and hopeful, because this is the first time I’ve eaten chunks of food without having any problems.

Mom and Dad went into the Office today, so they could play “catch up” with business details. They were able to accomplish a lot, while also spending some time together. Paul Burton stayed home with me this morning. Then, we had some church friends, including two children, visit for the afternoon. The children obeyed their mother’s order to, “make Ellie exhausted” by playing with her outside, and she has been sleeping ever since they left!

Before my afternoon nap, I was able to finish 3 loads of laundry for Mom and fix my own lunch. I am very thankful for the continued assistance of my family. I would not be doing so well if it were not for their love, support, and prayers. However, it felt refreshing to “give back” by helping around the house. These jobs were small and routine in nature, but gave me a sense of accomplishment and independence.

-Katy

Comments:

1. Candice & Crystal Sipe Says:
   September 3rd, 2006 at 3:33 am e

   Hi Katy! We are so glad to hear you had a wonderful Saturday. What an encouragement to hear that you are feeling much better. Praise God!! You have been such a blessing to both of us. We always look forward to reading your blog updates and talking to you on AIM. Please know that we are still praying for you and know the Lord will continue to give you strength during this time. We will talk to you soon.
   Love your sisters in Christ,
   Candice & Crystal

2. Carson Kistner Says:
   September 3rd, 2006 at 5:31 pm e

   Hi, Katy,

   I drive by your house so often, coming and going from RFBC. I am trying to make it a habit to pray for you each time I pass by.

   Julie was home for the first time this weekend since she moved to Charlottesville in early August. She studied most of the time, however! Says that’s ALL she does now except for classes and labs.

   I’m thankful to hear that you are making steps of progress in eating “real” food!

   You are an amazing young woman whom God is using in remarkable ways. In your weakness, it is obvious, many are seeing His strength!

   Much love and many prayers,
   Carson

3. Dan Says:
   September 3rd, 2006 at 8:42 pm e

   HAPPY BRTHDAY KATY! You ROCK! I know your birthday isn’t until Monday, but I wanted to make sure I put up a special birthday banner on your blog tonight.

   KATY, you inspire me. Even as you go through this hard thing, God is keeping you. He is an amazing God that can keep us through even the hardest times, and He deserves all glory, and honor and praise. We can take heart and know that He is God and He will NEVER leave us or forsake us.

Friday Night

Last night Katy was restless and seemed to have more stomach pain. That was a little disappointing for her, and she felt bad for keeping me awake. But since we didn’t get much sleep I told my “boss” I’d be in to work after lunch. He took it well! Katy slept most of today.

Late this afternoon our friend, Whitney, came for a visit and played Hymns on her harp. Katy fell asleep again during the concert but Whitney assured her that she takes it as a compliment when her music relaxes people to sleep. Whitney is actually taking classes toward a degree in Occupational Therapy. Whitney stayed for dinner and then Paul Burton and Whitney gave us dance lessons all evening! It was so much fun! Katy woke up and joined us, and it was just great. The pictures posted are of this evening’s festivities. (Including a break at 9PM for Katy’s TPN to be changed.) It was such a delightful evening. The kind of evening that falls together and everyone says, “That was just so nice!” We are all so grateful for the joy of being at home.

God Bless you all, and thank you for keeping those comments coming. Katy checks her Blog about 6 times a day and loves to hear from you.

Comments:

1. Jenny McGraw Says:
   September 2nd, 2006 at 12:00 am e

   Katy,

   I feel horrible for not being a better friend this summer! I’m sorry I haven’t been there the past couple months! I am sorry that you’ve had so many discouragements and complications recently. I do have to say that I love hearing your postitive outlook about the whole situation. Your faith is so strong, and I love that about you! By putting our trust in the Lord, all things are possible as you know! I am praying for you! I hope things start to get a little easier for you! I pray that your pain will be minimal! I would LOVE to see you again soon! You also have a birthday coming up soon! Could I possibly get your address? I hope you can forgive me for being such a horrible friend but just know that I’m thinking of you and you’re in my prayers! Your friend ~Jenny McGraw~

2. Heather Kirkwood Says:
   September 2nd, 2006 at 12:09 am e

   Hey Katy!
   Sorry to hear you had a rough night, but keep hanging in there! I’m finally home, with my prized pills! I keep staring at the bottle! Ha! I kept checking my purse to be sure they were still there! What do you do if you loose experimental medication??? I was also wondering if I’d have a hassle at airport security since the pills have no markings on them. But, TSA didn’t question them, or the tube of lipstick and little bottle of make up I forgot were in my purse! Hmmm…

   Tonight I was home in time to go to the coffee house near my apartment. I don’t know if I’ve told you about it - it’s a Christian coffee house and on Friday and Saturday nights they have live Christian music. Tonight they had a bluegrass band that was pretty good.

   More e-mail later - the caffeine is starting to wear off.

3. Jennifer :-) Says:
   September 2nd, 2006 at 12:23 am e

   Hey sweetie–I love getting comments from you on my blog!! It makes me feel special to know that you make that little bit of effort to keep up with me. You’re a real gem.

   Your evening sounds like it was too much fun! Whitney is a wonderful harpist, from what I’ve been told. I think I’ve heard her play before but it’s been a long time. I can’t wait to hear that you’re on a complete diet of “real food” instead of the TPN.

   Take care of yourself and stay rested up. I’m still praying for you, of course!! Love you.
   Jen

4. Anne Poler Says:
   September 2nd, 2006 at 2:52 pm e

   Hi, Katy!

   I was fascinated by your mom’s comments about the harp music. I have a friend who plays harp who made a comment about the benefits of listening to and playing harp music. There are lots of comments on the internet about medical benefits of listening to harp music–it’s even been looked at in the operating room. So, keep listening!

   The links on your blog page to other sites are very informative. Thanks! Also, I went to your Xanga site. Excellent!

   Praying for you and your family.

   Anne