Sleep Report

Thank you so much for praying for Katy’s sleep. We had nine uninterrupted hours of sleep. I know it is prayer, because all the symptoms are the same this morning. It is easier to cope with when our rest is adequate. Thank you!

Comments:

1. Sarah Meador Says:
   January 17th, 2007 at 12:27 pm e

   Katy and Dawn,

   Praise God for His never-ending provisions! What a gift sleep is. So thankful God blessed you both with 9 precious hours of peaceful rest. I will certainly be praying for a good day today and another sweet restful night tonight as you prepare for your journey to the doctor tomorrow. May God be glorified in what is found and determined during that visit.

   Enjoy the sunshine of the beautiful day!
   Much love,
   Sarah

2. Heather Kirkwood Says:
   January 17th, 2007 at 1:49 pm e

   I’m so glad it worked out! I feel like I’ve been a bit out of pocket as work is busy and getting ready for the conference is very busy! But, I think of you all and pray for you every day.

   Yes, the world always looks better with sleep! I’ve been sleeping better too - although last night it sort of felt I was working in my sleep! Grin! I woke up with a bunch of fundraising ideas! Yeah! Yesterday was an expensive day at the Network so I guess money was on my mind. Grin!

   I’m anxious to hear what you all learn in NC!

3. Candice & Crystal Sipe Says:
   January 17th, 2007 at 3:07 pm e

   Katy & Dawn,

   We are so glad you had a good nine hours of sleep. That is so wonderful!! Yeah! That’s good news about you getting to go see the GI doctor in NC. God most definitely took care of that for you. That’s what we were all hoping and praying for. We too, will be anxious to hear what she has to tell you.
   Talk to you later

Scrap book warning

Katy started her scrapbook today about two o’clock. Jenn showed her how to cut the pictures to capture the essence of the photo while cutting away unwanted paper. They began working together and soon Katy was working on her own while Jenn began to make a scrap book page of her own. They worked throughout the afternoon and the time flew by. Jenn left for home and Katy kept working while I made dinner. I had to practically pull her away from her project to eat. After dinner she went right back to it. This went on all evening until ten o’clock. I’m thinking that scrapbooking items in packages purchased from a distributor or from a store should have a warning label. Warning: Scrapbooking is highly addictive. It was also a lot of fun and I can see that Katy will have hours and hours of enjoyment from it. For her birthday last September, friends and relatives knew she was thinking about making an album and bought her various albums, pages, papers, sticker, etc. They were put to good use today! We are ready for bed and evening devotions. We’ll be praying for another good sound sleep.

Comments:

1. Jennifer S. :-) Says:
   January 18th, 2007 at 12:11 am e

   Katy,
   I did a scrapbook once of one of our church picnics, and I loved every minute of it. Someday I’d like to do some more of it!!
   And I’m so glad that you got nine wonderful hours of sleep. I’m praying you get those again tonight!!
   Love and prayers,
   Jen

2. Patricia Says:
   January 18th, 2007 at 12:21 pm e

   Yes, scrapbooking is definitely addictive…..and HORRIBLY expensive.
   We’re praying that the weather clears out your way so that you can have a pleasurable, relaxed drive down to Chapel Hill.
   Ib was scheduled to be in Oklahoma, in the hardest hit area, this week….we postponed it a few days, but he left this a.m. in a rented Durango (one can only reach his areas there with a 4-wheeler). There’s no electricity, just generator power, in the area so he even has an adapter along to run his printer off the SUV’s cigarette lighter. I guess it’s a testosterone thing…..
   Anyway, hope the drs. in N.C. can offer some hope and help. Travel mercies!
   Patricia

3. Laura Says:
   January 18th, 2007 at 3:40 pm e

   So did you use the papers that bought you for your birthday last year? You’ll most definately have to post pictures of this scrapbook when you’re done.

Tuesday Music lesson

Katy had another piano lesson with our friend Carole today. It was good to have some time today to focus on something as great as music. Katy is also getting ready to make her first picture album using the Creative Memories Scrapbooking method. Jenn is coming over tomorrow to start her on her first book. We spent today deciding on which pictures to use and gathered the materials and stickers together. It should be very colorful and beautiful. She will be using all the pictures from her two mission trips to Jamaica.

At four o’clock today Katy and I were standing at our local library looking at DVDs and her phone rang. Katy’s primary care doctor wrote to her insurance company explaining the trouble Katy has been having and they were satisfied that paying for the specialist in North Carolina would be the best thing! We were amazed. By faith we decided the bills would be paid by God’s grace and we never canceled the appointment! We will leave early Friday morning and make our way to Chapel Hill. Katy is hopeful that this will be the right thing at this time.

Dan is now working on making this website a place where Katy can also post her writings and thoughts. The katysblog website will soon have a new look. Some of you have expressed a desire to read some of the news articles Katy will be writing and this will give her a space of her own for you to browse. She can also post her own medical updates when she feels up to it. I will have a place to write my thoughts about the things I am observing and find interesting, and hopefully you will find them interesting as well.

Our need for sleep tonight is critical. We are asking the Lord for His help. Katy was in quite a bit of distress during the night last night. We prayed often throughout the night for many friends and ministries. We are happy to report that our friends in India spoke to a crowd of 4,000 yesterday as people gathered around them to listen to the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Thousands believed and were saved. Tonight the mission team will fly to Paris and will be home tomorrow night. We are anxious to see them. Our devotion in Spurgeon this morning was about the help we receive from the Lord when we call upon Him. Spurgeon wrote as if the Lord were speaking. “I will help thee. It is a small thing for me to help thee. Consider what I have already done! I bought thee with my blood, I died for thee! Before the world began I chose thee. I made a covenant with thee, I laid aside my glory and became a man for thee, I gave My life for thee. And if I did all this, would I not help thee?” Thanks be to God who is our help and our salvation.

I will help thee, saith the Lord. Isaiah 41:14

Comments:

1. Doris Harriff Says:
   January 16th, 2007 at 8:33 pm e

   Have you seen the scrapbooks done by Pat Harriff? I think she does an excellent job. She has some very old family pictures, and except for those that the dates are unknown, she has them divided by year. They are mostly family pictures, but some of our friends. Among them, she has a picture of Paul when he was a youngster sitting on an old discarded car seat in our yard, playing around with my sister Mildred’s mandolin. Did you get a copy of the CD of pictures she made for family members? It includes that one, but it doesn’t come near including all of them.

2. Fairlight Says:
   January 16th, 2007 at 10:50 pm e

   Praying that the Lord will grant you rest and refreshment tonight…

3. Jennifer S. :-) Says:
   January 17th, 2007 at 12:10 am e

   Hi Katy,
   God certainly is pouring blessings upon you!! That is so wonderful about your insurance agency and doctor’s appointment. God worked that out so amazingly!!
   I pray you sleep tonight in peace and joy.
   Love and prayers,
   Jen

4. Jess Lankford Says:
   January 17th, 2007 at 9:40 am e

   Good morning Campbell family!
   I’m so glad that ya’ll will be able to go to Chapel Hill! What a blessing that the insurance is willing to cover it! God is so good!

   Last night - before bed - Noah wanted me to get my computer out so he could watch his little ’signing time’ videos…as soon as I opened it he said “Let’s seek Katysblog” which I gladly obliged! He likes to look at the pictures of Katy and Dawn and then talk about you guys. (And every time we pass your house - he asks me what Katy is doing - to which I usually reply “she should be sleeping right now” and then he asks about Mrs. Dawn and I tell him you are either cooking or playing with Katy! *GRIN* God has given us a very special little guy who is concerned about you guys!

   We love ya’ll!
   Jes

Tuesday Music lesson

Katy had another piano lesson with our friend Carole today. It was good to have some time today to focus on something as great as music. Katy is also getting ready to make her first picture album using the Creative Memories Scrapbooking method. Jenn is coming over tomorrow to start her on her first book. We spent today deciding on which pictures to use and gathered the materials and stickers together. It should be very colorful and beautiful. She will be using all the pictures from her two mission trips to Jamaica.

At four o’clock today Katy and I were standing at our local library looking at DVDs and her phone rang. Katy’s primary care doctor wrote to her insurance company explaining the trouble Katy has been having and they were satisfied that paying for the specialist in North Carolina would be the best thing! We were amazed. By faith we decided the bills would be paid by God’s grace and we never canceled the appointment! We will leave early Friday morning and make our way to Chapel Hill. Katy is hopeful that this will be the right thing at this time.

Dan is now working on making this website a place where Katy can also post her writings and thoughts. The katysblog website will soon have a new look. Some of you have expressed a desire to read some of the news articles Katy will be writing and this will give her a space of her own for you to browse. She can also post her own medical updates when she feels up to it. I will have a place to write my thoughts about the things I am observing and find interesting, and hopefully you will find them interesting as well.

Our need for sleep tonight is critical. We are asking the Lord for His help. Katy was in quite a bit of distress during the night last night. We prayed often throughout the night for many friends and ministries. We are happy to report that our friends in India spoke to a crowd of 4,000 yesterday as people gathered around them to listen to the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Thousands believed and were saved. Tonight the mission team will fly to Paris and will be home tomorrow night. We are anxious to see them. Our devotion in Spurgeon this morning was about the help we receive from the Lord when we call upon Him. Spurgeon wrote as if the Lord were speaking. “I will help thee. It is a small thing for me to help thee. Consider what I have already done! I bought thee with my blood, I died for thee! Before the world began I chose thee. I made a covenant with thee, I laid aside my glory and became a man for thee, I gave My life for thee. And if I did all this, would I not help thee?” Thanks be to God who is our help and our salvation.

I will help thee, saith the Lord. Isaiah 41:14

Comments:

1. Doris Harriff Says:
   January 16th, 2007 at 8:33 pm e

   Have you seen the scrapbooks done by Pat Harriff? I think she does an excellent job. She has some very old family pictures, and except for those that the dates are unknown, she has them divided by year. They are mostly family pictures, but some of our friends. Among them, she has a picture of Paul when he was a youngster sitting on an old discarded car seat in our yard, playing around with my sister Mildred’s mandolin. Did you get a copy of the CD of pictures she made for family members? It includes that one, but it doesn’t come near including all of them.

2. Fairlight Says:
   January 16th, 2007 at 10:50 pm e

   Praying that the Lord will grant you rest and refreshment tonight…

3. Jennifer S. :-) Says:
   January 17th, 2007 at 12:10 am e

   Hi Katy,
   God certainly is pouring blessings upon you!! That is so wonderful about your insurance agency and doctor’s appointment. God worked that out so amazingly!!
   I pray you sleep tonight in peace and joy.
   Love and prayers,
   Jen

4. Jess Lankford Says:
   January 17th, 2007 at 9:40 am e

   Good morning Campbell family!
   I’m so glad that ya’ll will be able to go to Chapel Hill! What a blessing that the insurance is willing to cover it! God is so good!

   Last night - before bed - Noah wanted me to get my computer out so he could watch his little ’signing time’ videos…as soon as I opened it he said “Let’s seek Katysblog” which I gladly obliged! He likes to look at the pictures of Katy and Dawn and then talk about you guys. (And every time we pass your house - he asks me what Katy is doing - to which I usually reply “she should be sleeping right now” and then he asks about Mrs. Dawn and I tell him you are either cooking or playing with Katy! *GRIN* God has given us a very special little guy who is concerned about you guys!

   We love ya’ll!
   Jes

Purpose Driven Life

We’ve all read the book around here. Living life with purpose is important. Last year we looked at graduate schools with Katy and plans were in place for a very different life. Katy had planned to finish her course work for a degree from Mary Baldwin College by this December and set her course for graduate school in the fall. Now we wake up in the morning and read scripture and Spurgeon and pray for the needs of our family and others. If Katy feels good enough she gets out of bed and gets ready for the day. If she still feels good after that we plan something based on her energy level. We’ve all learned to go in the strength that she has. By the grace of God we are all adjusting to the detour quite well, while keeping our eyes on our purpose.

Katy was not only promised more time on earth; she was also told by the Lord that doors would open for her even if she never went to graduate school. Last week a door of opportunity opened that we are thrilled about. Her adviser at Mary Baldwin College submitted her name as a possible candidate for writing articles for the school paper. Her adviser emailed Friday to tell Katy that she had the position if she wanted it. Katy has already decided on the topic for her first article. She will write about rare diseases and the Genetic Alliance Gala she attended last fall in Washington. We are so happy for her. Writing is something she enjoys and she can do it with very little physical effort. I wonder how many opportunities are missed as we plow through life with our own agenda. In Katy’s case, the plowing came to a screeching halt, and God got her undivided attention. Her situation changed, but her life purpose has not. She has desired to live the life that God has planned for her, and this is it. And isn’t it the desire of Christians around the world to live for Him and then stand before Him one day and hear the words, “well done, my good and faithful servant.”

Comments:

1. Jennifer S. :-) Says:
   January 15th, 2007 at 8:46 am e

   Katy,
   YAY!! You go girl!! I don’t know how the school feels about it, but I’d love to read your writing. Is there some way you could post it here in a separate section?
   With love and prayers,
   Jen

2. Star LaBranche Says:
   January 15th, 2007 at 9:18 am e

   Hey there, Katy!

   I really like your blog and I’m looking forward to reading your article for the paper.

   Have a great week!

   -Star LaBranche

3. Trisha Ferris Says:
   January 15th, 2007 at 9:27 am e

   Katy,
   You probably hear from others how extraordinary you & your family are. I once told someone that you guys are the REAL Christians, implying that most of the rest of us are painfully faking it. But I’m beginning to learn that we’re all pretty ordinary, each with our private idols that need to be revealed & turned from. And yet our God chooses to continue to show up & work through us & use our words & actions as He chooses. The extraordinary One is Jesus who is in you & with you, who is in me & with me. What disappointment you must have struggled with as you realized your dream of a degree might not materialize, & here God is using you, your illness, & the gift He has given you to do something you would never have imagined. You’re on of the neatest people I’ve ever known & the Lord has used you immensely in my life. What a shame it would be if your life pointed only to yourself & not to Him. Thank you for always giving Him credit for everything. To Him be glory!
   Trisha

4. Doris Harriff Says:
   January 15th, 2007 at 2:23 pm e

   Have you ever thought that part of God’s purpose for Katy is to help bring new understanding, thus opening the way for new treatment(s) for HPS?

   Aunt Doris

5. Julie Wensley Says:
   January 15th, 2007 at 10:56 pm e

   Wow! What an awesome opportunity. And Trisha said it so well - anything good we do is only because of Jesus. He is the extraordinary one. And you continually point us all back to Him. We will be praying for you as you embark on this new exciting adventure. I have a feeling that the readership of the Mary Baldwin Newspaper is going to greatly increase!

6. Heather Kirkwood Says:
   January 16th, 2007 at 1:04 am e

   Katy e-mailed me the other day to tell me this and now I’m feeling terrible because I meant to congradute her, but I was so busy trying to remember all the medical stuff I wanted to share that I forgot!! Shame on me!!! Congrads Katy and I’d love to read it too! The most fun I ever had as a writer was when I had a weekly column in college. I ruffled a few feathers here and there, but that was okay. Grin!

7. Sandy Says:
   January 16th, 2007 at 12:14 pm e

   Congratulations to Katy! What a great opportunity. I know you’ll do well and will definitely open people’s eyes on many topics. You go, girl!

More Celebrating

We have had a terrific weekend and it is not even over yet. Katy has struggled with the pain in her back which is quite intense at times, but we all do what we can to comfort her when the pain becomes too much to bear. We are trying a new lotion treatment that we massage into her spine. It was recommended to us and is a topical ointment. Although the pain gets intense and miserable we have still so many reasons to be thankful. When things are tough and we begin to thank the Lord for all the good things, that we are not at the hospital is right there at the top.

Last night we celebrated Colin’s twenty-ninth birthday. Even Annelise had on her party dress. I served dinner while Annelise slept nearby and around dessert time she woke up and started looking around. Jenn baked a carrot cake for dessert that was so delicious that I woke up this morning thinking about it. We had one of those Campbell family evenings. That means there is always time for music somewhere during the evening so Katy and Grandmom got to try out Whitney’s harp. Grandmom was shown where to find notes on the strings and started playing a hymn in no time. I could tell by the way Granddad was grinning that he might just be thinking about a harp for Grandmom. Colin and Jennifer looked at the old family photos and at one point discovered by the pictures that they had some of the same toys. They are good friends, and it is fun to see their joy over the little things. Paul Burton and Whitney played some hymns together. Sometime after midnight when everyone had left, Paul and I straightened the kitchen and reminisced about the evening.

One of my favorite things about entertaining is the fun I have with Paul after everyone is gone and the house is quiet. We recall conversations and the interesting things that were discussed. We laugh over all the funny things that were said, and we always feel so thankful that we were able to share time with people we love. Just after we were married we started having the church youth group over on Sunday nights, and thirty-three years later we still enjoy doing things like that. I hope when you see the following pictures you’ll feel like you were here, too. In many ways you were. It is your prayers that sustain us and give us the strength to keep celebrating.

Comments:

1. Sarah Meador Says:
   January 13th, 2007 at 8:31 pm e

   What a joyous evening! Happy birthday to Colin! Annelise is so precious. Thank you for sharing the night.

2. Jennifer S. :-) Says:
   January 13th, 2007 at 11:32 pm e

   Wow, that looks like it was a fun night! I have to say that Annelise is adorable!! What a sweet baby. And Happy Birthday Colin!

   Katy, I hope and pray that your back pain will cease, soon. Have a blessed Lord’s Day!!
   Love and prayers,
   Jen

3. Karen Tillman Says:
   January 14th, 2007 at 12:03 am e

   HAPPY BIRTHDAY COLIN!!!! I am so glad that you could all spend it together. Katy, I hope you are feeling better and that the lotion helps the pain. Take care and see you in Feb.
   Love
   Karen Tillman
   

4. Doris Harriff Says:
   January 14th, 2007 at 9:04 pm e

   Happy Birthday, Colin!

   Aunt Doris

5. Marcie Long Says:
   January 16th, 2007 at 11:08 pm e

   How sweet your evening was. Thanks for sharing it. Dawn, you look beautiful holding your granddaughter. Congratulations!!
   Katy, we continue to pray for you. I know God is fulfilling His purposes in you. I’m glad you have the opportunity to write articles.
   Love,
   Marcie

Thursday

I was remembering my grandmother this morning. It brought a smile to my face. She woke up singing every morning. When I stayed overnight with her she would wake up on a sunny morning and sing, “Heavenly sunshine, heavenly sunshine, filling my soul with glory divine, heavenly sunshine, heavenly sunshine, hallelujah Jesus is mine.” This morning I woke up at nine o’clock with the sunshine streaming in the windows and I remembered her little song. Katy slept all night and so did I. I didn’t even stir while Paul got ready for work. I felt wonderfully refreshed and so did Katy as we got ready for the day. And we had a wonderful day.

Katy and I went to Lynchburg with a Christmas gift card and we shopped the clearance racks at a major department store. We had a blast. We spent the whole afternoon having fun. Tonight we are both refreshed and happy and ready for what we hope will be a good night of sleep. This morning when I went into Katy’s room I asked her if she had gotten up during the night. She hadn’t. She told me she felt pain even while she slept but her sleep was deep and refreshing. There is no other way to explain a good night of sleep with pain other than the mercy of God and answered prayer. We are so thankful for both!

Today we got the word that Katy’s insurance refused her request to see a doctor in North Carolina that we had been hoping to see. The doctor in North Carolina did give us another recommendation for a doctor at the University of Virginia, so we are praying about that. We still do not have a doctor to address the part of Katy’s disease that is causing her the most trouble (inflammatory bowel disease). The doctors at the University of Virginia have not treated a patient with HPS, so we are back where we started. However, there is a good research department there and they are going to begin clinical trials on a new drug (Article Link). Again we need wisdom, and ask God for more of it. Our hope is not in any man, woman, or drug. Our hope is in the Lord, and if it pleases Him, He will use those means to bring Katy the relief she has been longing for. While we wait on Him, shopping is a pleasant diversion.

Comments:

1. Jennifer S. :-) Says:
   January 12th, 2007 at 12:04 am e

   Katy,
   I’m so glad to hear you had such a fun day!! And it’s so great that you got to go out and you’re not really tired or sore after it!!
   I hope and pray you get a good night’s sleep tonight.
   Love and prayers,
   Jen

2. Patricia Says:
   January 12th, 2007 at 1:29 pm e

   Glad you could exprience a “normal” day together! I know, not the old normal but the “new” normal for somebody with on-going physical challenges.
   Lisa has struggled with the IBS for 8 years now. Dannon Yogurt has a liquid called DanActive (3.3 oz), available in some grocery stores and Wal-Mart now around here, which balances enzymes and bacteria in the intestines. She also now has a struggle with milk products but that small amount causes no distress. Of course, that affects calcium consumption, big time, so another challenge rears its ugly head….so weight-bearing exercise, exercise is the correct way to keep bones strong.

3. Julie Wensley Says:
   January 12th, 2007 at 2:04 pm e

   Hi Campbells! We’ve been a little out of touch the last couple of days in Georgia - slow internet service made it a little difficult. But we have been keeping track of what’s going on.

   I remember the “Heavenly Sunshine” song and was thinking of another one.
   There’s sunshine in my soul today,
   More glorious and bright
   Than glows in any earthly sky,
   For Jesus is my light.

   Glad you’re still hanging in there. Hope to see you soon.

4. Sandy Says:
   January 12th, 2007 at 3:34 pm e

   You made me remember my grandmother too. She also sang a lot, and she used to wake up my Aunt Mary by singing the “Mairsy Doats” song!! But I remember her singing “Children of the Heavenly Father” to me all the time. I sometimes still have a hard time getting through that hymn in church because I get so choked up.

   I know how frustrating it is to fight with insurance companies. I hope the “next round” leads you to exactly the right doctor.

   Prayers continue for you all from me. Take care.

5. Candice & Crystal Says:
   January 12th, 2007 at 5:44 pm e

   Hi Katy!

   When I read your update, I was saddened to hear that your insurance company couldn’t get your request through. I know how much you were looking froward to seeing the GI doctor in NC. Obviously that wasn’t God’s plan. Crystal and I are praying that HE will direct you to a doctor in VA that will help you get the best care you need.

   We love shopping!!! Next time you plan a shopping trip you’ll have to take us along with you. LOL!! I’m just teasing!! I am glad you enjoyed your day.

Wednesday

We’re trying to catch up on several nights of lost sleep. I have been too tired to write. The pain in Katy’s back continues to keep her up at night. This has been a hard few days, but we have had some joy times that keep our spirits up. When I run into someone I know or answer the phone the question usually comes up, “How is Katy?” If I look at the circumstances as I see them daily and nightly, things are not good. If I think about the things we are all learning about suffering, God’s mercy, and the heavenly rest that awaits us in eternity, I would have to say, “Things have never been better.”

Of all the things Jesus could have left us before departing physically from this world He chose to leave us with peace. If He had chosen to leave us with prosperity or good health, we all know those things would not offer lasting peace. In recent times we have opened the Bible, hungrier than ever, only to find words that immediately put our hearts at peace and we know we can go the distance in the race that has been set before us.

“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid” -John 14:27

Comments:

1. Heather Kirkwood Says:
   January 10th, 2007 at 4:45 pm e

   I can relate. I’ve got a lot of pain in my lower back and am going in for a kidney sonogram Jan. 22nd. They think it might be kidney stones - which I have discovered are somewhat common among people with digestive problems to start with. So, I’m trying to drink tons and tons of water! The doc. also thought it might be a muscle spasm and has given me some muscle relaxers - but they have no effect on the pain so I’m wondering if it isn’t the stones. Who knows. I’m just ready to be past it and get some sleep! Grin! I know you know how I feel - GRIN!!!!

2. Jess Lankford Says:
   January 10th, 2007 at 10:32 pm e

   Dawn -
   I always read your blog and then think - “man - they are learning some tough, amazing things!” Jesus is the best teacher and I think you all have quite a classroom going on over there. I am in awe of you guys and the way you learn your lessons!

   We love you and are praying for the pain.
   Jes

Keeping Busy

Katy finds that keeping herself involved in activities that distract her from pain is the best way to get beyond it. We have been working on our computers and getting ourselves organized for most of the day. Most people who have had shingles don’t usually talk about it unless the subject comes up. Several people who have found out that Katy has it for a second time have said they had it once and hope they never have to deal with it again. The pain is very difficult to manage, but by God’s grace she is!

Today we have been thinking about getting into an exercise program at the Athletic Club or YMCA. Katy’s doctor suggested that last week as a way to improve her bone density. Since I would be her driver and would have to wait for her while she exercised, I was thinking about joining her. I once saw a cartoon about a girl who needed an exercise routine and in her private thoughts she said, “I feel like exercising and getting my body in the best shape it’s ever been in… I think I’ll just sit here with my feet up until the feeling passes.” We’d like to go a step further tomorrow and actually call about classes.

Comments:

1. LInda Burk Says:
   January 8th, 2007 at 9:11 pm e

   HI.. Mary Fenlon is actually exercising because of her loss of bone density. Mary is as thin as ever. I , on the other hand, am walking after school trying to shed the many extra pounds..My assistant at school also has shingles..very painful. Mrs. BUrk also suffered , as did our 34 year old PE teacher last year. Sorry Katy has to go through it again.
   I visited with Patricia and Ib at Ellen’s home in Annapolis on New Year’s Eve this year. Ellen has quite an operation going. She is a VERY hard worker. Patricia made a real DANISH pastry for my family. It was delicious.
   I am back to school and working towards the end of the second quarter. Thinking about you and hoping everyone can stay well. Hugs, Linda

2. Karen Tillman Says:
   January 8th, 2007 at 11:15 pm e

   Hey Dawn,

   I think the exercise class is a great idea, and you 2 can spend some mother/daughter time together. I’ve often heard it is very beneficial in staving off osteoperosis, and with her on so much prednisone, that’s something to really be concerned about. Take care and can hardly wait to see you in Feb.
   Love
   Karen Tillman
   

3. Danae Says:
   January 8th, 2007 at 11:16 pm e

   I would definitely recommend the YMCA near our house - it is amazing! They have a lot of different classes and some of them you don’t even have to be a member for. A few summers ago, I met with a personal trainer 3 times a week and they never charged additional fees! She helped me so much and I would definitely recommend it!

   I started school again today. One of the classes is right in my building! I’ll talk to you later!

   Danae

4. Jess Lankford Says:
   January 9th, 2007 at 9:39 am e

   Hey girls!
   I think the exercise program sounds like a good idea! I’ve ‘rededicated’ myself to walking and doing some light weights recently and the days I do it - my whole body feels better, my attitude is improved and I feel like a new woman! So I encourage you!

   Oh - in totally unrelated news - do you remember how I said I wouldn’t need the baby stuff back for at least 9 months??? Well - it might be more like 7 months!! We are expecting a new little lamb in August!!! I keep meeting to tell you in church - but then I forget as soon as the service is over! We are getting our heads around the idea of three under 4 years old - but it’s going to be fun - like a big baby party all the time at our home!!

   Better run! Praying you all have a good day and that the pain decreases!!
   Love you!
   Jess

5. Jennifer S. :-) Says:
   January 10th, 2007 at 12:21 am e

   Hi Katy,
   I’m sorry you’re having trouble with the shingles, but I trust that the Lord will heal you soon. I took a dance class at the YMCA near us and it was a lot of fun. I’m sure you’ll enjoy whatever you decide to do!!
   Love and prayers,
   Jen

Friends

Today was a good day for all of us. We got to work putting the Christmas decorations away and Katy has been busy on her computer. We were able to sleep several hours in a row again last night so this morning we felt more refreshed. Katy has decided to get beyond the pain from the Shingles by staying busy, and when she does that she is able to accomplish quite a bit.

We wanted to tell you another remarkable story about answered prayed that is most interesting. When Katy was in the hospital in October our friends David and Lizi came by to see Katy. Katy was in the middle of those terrible spasms she had been having and Lizi asked Katy if there was anything they could do to help. Katy said, “Sing.” So David and Lizi took the old hymn book that we left on the night stand and opened it to some of their favorite songs. They started singing. They harmonized and sang many old hymns of our faith, rich in theology. As Lizi was singing she was observing Katy and the way her hands and feet curled up during these attacks. They sang until the spasms stopped, kissed us goodbye and went on their way.

About two weeks later, Lizi called me early in the day to tell me that she had been praying to the Lord concerning Katy and her spasms. She told me that she had the unmistakable impression that the Lord said, “vitamin D.” She didn’t know what in the world to think of that so she told David and he said, “Call Dawn right away and tell her!” Before the phone conversation was over I had given Katy 1200 IU of vitamin D that I had on hand. Who am I to mess with answers to prayer when so many of you were praying for wisdom? By the end of the second day on vitamin D Katy stopped having the spasms and has not had one since. The calcium she was taking through the TPN was apparently not being absorbed properly without vitamin D. Since Katy does not absorb sunlight through her skin the way we do, she must have been deficient in vitamin D. Whatever the reason, the spasms stopped and Katy is careful to take calcium and vitamin D every day.

God can and does use all of us. Lizi has no formal training in medicine. She was born and raised in England, speaks with a lovely English accent, and is a wonderful artist. She inspires everyone she meets and David is crazy about her. Since she is a faithful blog reader, I’ll say, ” Happy birthday, Lizi, and thank you for being willing to ask the Lord for big things!” There were at least eight doctors trying to solve the mystery of the spasms, but God chose Lizi to deliver the answer. She takes no credit for that, but gives Him high praise for His mercy.

Lizi, seated in the lower-right corner:

David and Lizi:

Comments:

1. Doris Harriff Says:
   January 7th, 2007 at 2:15 pm e

   Wow, God told you about the saline solution being one of the problems, and He told Lizi about vitamin D being one of the answers. Isn’t our God good?!
   Aunt Doris

2. Katy Says:
   January 9th, 2007 at 6:52 pm e

   Dear David and Lizi,

   Thank you for being sensitive and willing to listen to the Lord. I reaped the physical benefits, but I pray (and believe) you’ll receive the spiritual blessings for being obedient to Him. Thank you, also, for singing to me at the hospital. I remember that day well and how your voices calmed the room amidst an otherwise chaotic event.

   Lizi, Happy Birthday! I trust you had a wonderful celebration.

Doctor Visit

The day started early. We had a better night’s sleep last night so one would think we could bound out of bed with gusto this morning to get to the hematologist on time. But the day is very overcast and drizzly. Katy and I have a theory that as the night falls and the temperature drops the linens on our beds begin to freeze. By the time we crawl in at the end of the day we shiver and shake. But by morning the linens thaw and the temperature under the covers is just right. On a drizzly day like today we wanted to pull the covers over our head and stay there. But we soldiered on. We arrived for the appointment five minutes late then waited an hour for the doctor. We took our morning devotions with us and made good use of the time.

The hematologist has suggested we cut Katy’s steroids and that the pain along her spine and nerves may be coming from a condition induced by the high dose of steroids. Katy has had Shingles before all the HPS symptoms showed up last July. So we weren’t thinking she could have them again. However her hematologist looked her over today and said that the nerve ending pain and numbness in her hands and feet are symptoms of active Shingles. When she suggested that, Katy said, “Yes, this pain is like the pain of Shingles!” That would also explain why the pain medication is not working well. Nerve pain is not controlled by doses of narcotics. So today we started cutting her steroids again and will taper them as long as Katy’s GI tract can tolerate it. I told the doctor that at this point we are frustrated that the steroids need to be high to keep her disease under control, but the medication is causing so much trouble. All of us agreed on that but when we discussed other courses of treatment, such as Remicade or Imuran, she did not think favorably on the idea. Since Katy was hoping for a new course of treatment she left discouraged. Therefore we stopped at Sonic for a comforting hamburger and a banana smoothie which Katy reports is settling nicely. So here we are back home relying on the mercies of God to see her through the pain.

Comments:

1. Sandy Says:
   January 5th, 2007 at 2:00 pm e

   Eek! Shingles?! I’m glad the doctor recognized it and there is an explanation for the pain. I hope the tapering off from the steroids goes better than before. I continue to lift you all in prayer.

2. Kristin Dunker Says:
   January 5th, 2007 at 9:43 pm e

   Hi all! It’s been ages since I’ve “Left a Reply” although I still keep up with life at the Campbells everyday. I thought I’d share today an amazing song that has been of tremendous hope and comfort to me lately. I hope it speaks peace and trust to you tonight too. Praying for the pain to subside with you! I think I’ll go make myself a banana milkshake…that sounds devine! Happy New Year!
   Love,
   ~Kristin

   God moves in a mysterious way, His wonders to perform. He plants His footsteps in the sea, And rides upon the storm. Deep in His dark and hidden mines, With never failing skill, he fashions all His bright designs, And works His sovereign will.
   –So God, we trust in You, O God we trust in You. When tears are great, and comforts few, We hope in mercies ever new, We trust in You–
   O fearful saints new courage take, The clouds that you new dread, Are big with mercy and will break, In blessings on your head. Judge not the Lord by feeble sense, But trust Him for His grace. Behind a frowning providence, He hides a smiling face…(chorus)
   God’s purposes will ripen fast, Unfolding every hour. The bud may have a bitter taste, but sweet will be the flower. Blind unbelief is sure to err, And scan His work in vain. God is His own interpreter, And He will make it plain…(chorus)

3. David and Lizi Says:
   January 5th, 2007 at 10:04 pm e

   Katy,
   Lizi and I continually pray for you and your family.
   We will pray specifically that the lack of steriods will not have a negative affect on your disease and that you will be relieved of the shingles.
   God bless you and your family for your wonderful witness!
   David and Lizi

4. LInda Burk Says:
   January 6th, 2007 at 8:58 am e

   HI.Thank you Katy for the very thoughtful sympathy note. We have peace in our hearts that DAd has joined mom and Jackie. Today is SAturday, my day to visit with DAd. I miss him. We feel overwhelmed with the the kindness shown by our friends, again. WE have lost mom, Mrs. Burk, Jackie and now Dad in the last six years. Our friends have been there through it all. We are off to another funeral today. Mr. BUrk’s longtime neighbor passed away in his sleep at the age of 65.LIfe continues to be a mystery.
   Thinking of you and wishing you a happy day.
   love, Linda

5. Patricia Says:
   January 9th, 2007 at 6:28 am e

   Shingles are no fun, as you well know, Katy. So sorry you have to undergo another episode with them. I had them two years ago. My mother suffered for years repeatedly with shingles along her nose and in her one eye…what firey misery.
   We pray this second round with shingles will not be as intense or long lasting as the first.
   I believe that common wisdow says they are intensified by stress, so relaxation, peace and calm….may they be yours!

Praying from Home

When we went to bed last night, we prayed for a good night of sleep and we knew many of you were praying the same thing for us! Although she was in a lot of pain, Katy finally fell asleep around two in the morning and didn’t wake up until half past seven. That was a great sleep. We wanted to wake up early and get over to the church down the road from us because at nine this morning they were sending off a team of seven to India. The team will be meeting with orphanages, caring for orphans, and traveling to some of the poorest places in India. With all our hearts we intended to get out of bed and meet with this group for prayer before they left for the airport. The spirit was willing but the flesh was weak! We stayed in bed and prayed from there. We know several of the people going on this trip and will be praying for them as they experience the hardships of taking the gospel to Katy’s birthplace.

We have prayed many times that through the spreading of the Gospel throughout India, Katy’s biological parents would come to know Jesus, experience His forgiveness and love, and at last in eternity meet the daughter who has given us so much joy here on earth.

Paul and I are again searching the internet for possible treatments for Katy. She has been able to eat and that part of the disease is under control. However, the other problems associated with her disease and the long term use of steroids still remain a problem for her and interfere with her ability to move forward. We plan to discuss one possibility with her doctor tomorrow.

Comments:

1. Heather Kirkwood Says:
   January 5th, 2007 at 1:10 am e

   Best of luck with the doctor’s appointment tomorrow. I wish I could offer something useful. I’m amazed at all the developments that are on the market since I last experienced these problems 14 years ago. I can’t offer any advice about some of the drugs you’re looking at because they weren’t on the market way back when! All I can offer is what I hope is the encouragement that I’ve had 14 years pretty much free of all this “stuff.” It took a year to get there though (and losing my colon, not the idea option!) Dawn, I hope you’re feeling better as well!

2. Bob, Amy, Emily, Meredith and Abby Says:
   January 5th, 2007 at 9:03 am e

   You know that we’re still praying. Thanks for including the detail of your doctor’s appointment so that we can pray specifically for it. A few days ago, I was reviewing 2006 in my mind and thinking of a “Top 10 List” of God’s revealed grace in our lives. Katy’s experiences were Number One. Also, thanks for praying for Amy. Her obedience was Number Two. Love Y’all, Bob

Constant Beggars

Katy was awake every hour last night and I rubbed her back between doses of pain medication knowing I could not give her another dose too soon. It made for a long hard night. We started this morning with a devotional from Spurgeon and prayer. Of prayer, Spurgeon said, “We have been compelled to go to God for our souls, as constant beggars asking for everything. Bear witness, children of God, you have never been able to get anything for your souls elsewhere.” Together we asked the Lord for strength to go through this day. I got a call from a friend around 8:15 AM and she also prayed with me over the phone, recognizing that we would get through the day on the strength that comes from God alone. It was after that we got ready to go to the doctor and we both functioned well all day on very little sleep.

The doctor was not able to determine anything based on Katy’s symptoms so she wrote prescriptions for pain management and I know she will be praying for us. I told her that I would be taking Katy to the hematologist on Friday and she was very glad that we were doing that. Although Katy is having tremendous pain in her bones she still had a good day mentally. Her spirit is cheerful at times. We both took a nap this afternoon and before we fell asleep we planned the ideal trip to a beach where hot sand could be piled on her legs for therapy. We achieved the right temperature for her dream by cranking up the electric blanket to number seven. That toasty blanket and the south facing sunlit windows put her into a deep sleep for a three hour nap. God was so kind when He gave us good imaginations. An imagination can make the gloomiest circumstances disappear with the slightest happy daydream. We had a great time on that imaginary beach, and we needed no sunscreen or bug repellent. It was a perfect nap!

Comments:

1. Cathy Lauver Says:
   January 3rd, 2007 at 8:19 pm e

   Hey Katy,

   Sorry to hear that you have been experiencing more deep bone pain. I had hoped to be able to come by to see you during the school break, but like your poor mom, I came down with a “bug.” Mine was stomach, not intestinal, but I was sure you would not like me to share this particular little treat with you. Keep thinking about that beautiful beach with warm sand, sun, and water. We make sure to include you in our prayers each and every night.
   Love,
   Cathy

2. Sara Says:
   January 3rd, 2007 at 9:42 pm e

   Dear Dawn and Katy,

   I love you,love you,love you!!!
   Even when things aren’t going so well you still continue to encourage all of us with your words. You truly have a gift.The attribute for Moms in Touch this week is God is trustworthy.

   Ps.62:8 Trust in Him at all times,O people;Pour out your heart before Him; God is a refuge for us.

   Is.26:3-4 The steadfast of mind Thou wilt keep in perfect peace. Because he trusts in Thee. Trust in the Lord forever, for in God the Lord, we have an everlasting rock.

   I praise God for His steadfast love and that we can approach His throne of Grace with all of our requests. We continue to pray for you daily. We also had a great visit with Colin, Jenn and Annalise. She is such a cute baby and she seems to be very calm!
   I loved the pictures of your trip. I can see that you had a great time.
   I’m praying for good sleep for the whole household tonight.
   Love,Sara

An Update

Katy and I worked through the day by sleeping off our different miseries. I was thinking between naps that in heaven there will not be major illness like cancer and heart disease, but also absent will be viruses and head colds. The little bugs that take us down from time to time will be gone and will have no part in the heavenly life. While our time here is brief, when we’re sick the time drags on. When we purchase little boxes for our particular illness that say, “fast-acting,” it is never fast enough, is it? Well hallelujah, one day it will all be changed.

Late this afternoon we went to the hematologist for tests. Katy’s platelet count is a healthy 270,000. So now it is a mystery as to why her bones are aching so badly. Several times a day the muscles in her arms and legs pull and tighten then her feet and hands go numb. All of these symptoms were present when she had low platelets, so she was sure that the blood work would confirm the problem today, she’d take one bag of platelets to go, and would improve by morning. But since that isn’t the case, we have been praying about where to go from here. She is on some pretty strong pain medication for the night and we will see another doctor tomorrow morning.

Paul and I are so thankful for the wonderful rest we had last week. We sure felt refreshed. We stayed at the Inn at Grist Mill Square in Warm Springs, Virginia. We also spent some time at The Homestead and had our anniversary brunch there. We took many long walks and I even soaked in the natural hot springs known as the Jefferson Pools. What bliss! The underground springs rise to the earth’s surface and collect in a pool in the little town of Warm Springs. The water temperature of the amazingly clear mineral water is always 98 degrees. God Himself made the first hot tub, proving what Solomon said, “There is nothing new under the sun.” While vacationing we laughed, studied, prayed, walked, held hands, and relaxed. We also played a couple of Scrabble games. I think writing these posts has improved my Scrabble score. You’ll have to ask Paul what he thinks.

Comments:

1. Heather Kirkwood Says:
   January 2nd, 2007 at 7:47 pm e

   OOOHhhh..I’m sitting here with some aches of my own and that spring sounds sooo good! I hope you’re feeling better as well. Keeping you all in my prayers!

2. Julie Wensley Says:
   January 2nd, 2007 at 8:41 pm e

   You both look so rested and relaxed in the photos. I know you had a wonderful time. I’m glad you’re feeling a little better today, Dawn. We are praying for the bone pain, Katy. I’m thankful that most of your discomfort didn’t start until after your mom and dad returned home. And praise the Lord your platelet count is up, even though that adds to the confusing nature of this illness.

   We love you.

3. Lillian Oliveira Says:
   January 2nd, 2007 at 10:41 pm e

   Paul and Dawn, Since I wasn’t available in Florida this year to offer you a get-away, I’m so very glad someone else did! And the house is still available - (for camping out!) until it finally sells. In the market today its not at all easy so it may be awhile. We hope and pray and lean of the Lord, as you do for a far more serious challenge. So sorry Dawn got hit with the bug right afterwards! With warm love and appreciation for you all! Aunt Lil

4. Jennifer S. :-) Says:
   January 2nd, 2007 at 10:49 pm e

   I hope you feel better soon, Mrs. Campbell, and I’m so glad that you and Mr. Campbell had such a wonderful time!! My parents are going on a little getaway weekend next week and I can’t wait. They’ve earned it!!
   Katy, I hope your appointment goes well tomorrow. We prayed for you in our family devotions tonight. I trust that that doctors will be able to diagnose what is causing this pain. Until they do, hang in there!!
   Love and prayers,
   Jen

5. Pete Pearl Says:
   January 3rd, 2007 at 10:20 am e

   Dawn,
   The kids and I continue to pray for wisdom for the doctors and quick healing for Katy. I am so glad you and Paul had time away. Jenice and I got married at the Homestead back in 1993 so that area has a special place in our hearts. I hope 2007 brings many blessings to your family.
   Pete

6. Heather Kirkwood Says:
   January 3rd, 2007 at 4:18 pm e

   Just checking in to see how today’s appointment went. You all are on my mind.

From Speed Bump to Pot Hole

We had a lovely New Years Eve evening, in spite of Katy’s bone pain. Dawn and I visited with some friends and then returned home about 9:00 to join the kids, who were engrossed in a game of Settlers of Catan. We moved the dining room furniture to make room for Paul Burton to give a few more dance lessons. He showed us a few steps, and then Colin and Jenn showed him some Swing steps they had learned before their wedding last year. Katy was able to join us from about 10:30 to 1:00. She didn’t dance, but she enjoyed watching. We had a very short fireworks display at midnight.

About 2:30, Dawn woke up with all the symptoms of an intestinal bug (I won’t go into details) and she spent the entire day today in bed. I had planned to go into work for a while to get a head start, but elected to stay home and be available for whatever. Katy was her usual remarkable self; in spite of her own discomfort she worked with me all afternoon to clean up all the evidence of the fun the night before. We decided not to contact Katy’s hematologist today because she doesn’t seem to be getting any worse and she is already scheduled for a visit with her primary care physician on Wednesday morning.

Part of the learning curve in living with HPS is deciding when to call the doctor and when to wait it out or work through it. We are grateful for our HPS friends who are always available to offer encouragement and sometimes counsel. Every HPS patient is different, but it’s a great comfort to describe something to someone and have them say “I’ve been through that.” It reminds me of 2 Corinthians 1:3,4 “Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God.”

Those of you who have traveled this road before us are able to help us on our journey. You know who you are, and we thank you.

Comments:

1. Jess Lankford Says:
   January 2nd, 2007 at 9:39 am e

   Hey guys!
   Glad that you got a little vacation before the bumps and potholes! I’m praying for Dawn to feel better and for Katy’s pain to go away today! If it’s any consolation - I got the stomach thing the week before Christmas and it lasted about 24 hours…it was a nasty 24 hours but I was thankful it was short!!

   I got “Morning and Evening” for Christmas and I love it! Thanks for turning me on to it!!
   Jes

2. Heather Kirkwood Says:
   January 2nd, 2007 at 4:04 pm e

   Hey Dawn,
   I hope you’re feeling better! Just thinking of you.

A Speed Bump

As I type this, Katy has gotten herself to the bathroom but is in a great deal of pain. She has the deep bone pain that has returned since last night, and is planning to soak in a hot tub. We were hoping to ring in the new year tonight with fireworks, but Paul Burton said he would see how Katy feels and if she isn’t up to it we will set them off another night. I will call the hematologist first thing in the morning to check on Katy’s platelet count. We are praying her through this night, hoping for a change by morning. For the past couple of weeks Katy has had the bone pain from time to time but it diminished and she was able to carry on a normal day. Today, however, the pain has kept her confined to bed, and we’ve had to keep up her break-through pain medication faithfully in order to keep her comfortable. This has been so discouraging for her, yet she has voiced her thanks to God for the many wonderful memories we made over the holidays. She was able to do so many things that were dreams come true for her. Paul and I are thankful that we are rested and ready to meet this new challenge. The new year is upon us and we are looking forward to all the adventures in store for us. We pray that you will have a wonderful year, too.

Comments:

1. Jennifer S. :-) Says:
   January 1st, 2007 at 12:32 am e

   Dear Katy,
   I’m sorry you’ve hit this speed bump. I know, though, that the Lord will bring you through it and you’ll be even stronger because of it.
   I pray that the New Year will be a blessing for you!!
   Love and prayers,
   Jen

2. Aleah Yunger Says:
   January 1st, 2007 at 1:17 am e

   Happy New Year, Katy & family!
   Katy, I am deeply sorrowed about your pain. I am voicing your name to the Heavens tonight, beautiful one, and I know the Lord of Lords will hear my cry. Praying for all those ill and in need tonight, we remember them before our Great Healer. I love you so much! Dawn & Paul, so glad you can be home to comfort your daughter and that you are tanked up from a great get-away’s rest! I will be around to visit sometime soon
   Prayers for you always,
   Aleah

3. Doris Harriff Says:
   January 1st, 2007 at 12:54 pm e

   Prayers for you always. Dawn, I can only imagine how discouraging it is for you as well as Katy when these setbacks occur. I am so glad you and Paul got your mini-vacation in. And may you have another 33 years of marital bliss!

   Aunt Doris

4. Sarah Meador Says:
   January 1st, 2007 at 6:36 pm e

   Katy,

   Praying that this pain will cease, that full comfort will return, and that you will be back on your feet again very soon. Being with you again on Wednesday night was so refreshing and such a sweet time of fellowship. I love you and continue to daily lift you before the throne of grace.

   With love,
   Sarah

Sabbath Rain

The sky was heavy with rainclouds, therefore today’s Sunday afternoon nap was perfect. There was a steady rain on the roof lulling us to sleep, and even the dog settled in quietly. The darkness is closing in fast this afternoon, and we are all beginning to stir and wake from one of those satisfying, long winter’s naps. The lamps are lit early, and the rain continues, but now we are getting ready to have a Christmas celebration with Dan and Julie and their family tonight. The homemade rolls are sending the scent of fresh baked bread to the rooms of the stragglers. I imagine everyone will end up in the kitchen soon.

We were able to attend church together this morning, which is something we have not been able to do for a long time. It was great to experience the day together. The problems of yesterday and for the past year seemed far behind us, and we worshiped the One Who hears all of our prayers. After lunch I got a call from one of Katy’s doctors; a faithful blog reader. He read yesterday’s account of the pain medication withdrawal, and discussed a tapering plan with me. The plan will take several weeks to accomplish, but it is a conservative taper that her system should adjust to without shocking it. I am grateful for that information, and for her doctor who makes house calls. He, like all of us, longs to see her living her dreams.

One of the hymns sung in church this morning particularly touched my heart as I looked down the row and saw Katy singing. My tears are good on these occasions. They express my joy when words fail. I’ll close with the words to the hymn, “O Love That Will Not Let Me Go.”

O Love that will not let me go,
I rest my weary soul in thee;
I give thee back the life I owe,
that in thine ocean depths its flow may richer, fuller, be.

O Joy that seekest me through pain,
I can not close my heart to thee;
I trace the rainbow through the rain,
and feel the promise is not vain, that morn shall tearless be.

Friday Night

Just a short blog update to let you know that everything is going well. I talk with Mom over the phone at least twice every day and, each time, I can tell she is grinning from ear to ear. Our conversations are always filled with vivid and wonderful details of the sights and sounds she’s experiencing. Mom and Dad will return home tomorrow, ready to enter 2007 with a refreshed spirit and new memories. Meanwhile, I spent four days visiting with friends, reading, shopping, catching up on paperwork, and making my own memories with Paul Burton.

I think the only “creature” who has not enjoyed this week was Ellie (our dog)! I tried to play with her, but she just stared out the windows and moped around the house. Well, Lord willing, she’ll be able to sniff Mom and Dad all she wants to tomorrow. I’m also looking forward to seeing my parents again, although I promise not to sniff them. Instead, we’ll share together memories, pictures, and answered prayers of a week the Lord has blessed.

To my parents, I want to say, “Thank you for being faithful to each other for thirty-three years…what clear evidence it is that the Lord does live in and through you. Happy Anniversary!” And to the family that made it possible for my parents to celebrate their anniversary, I’d like to say, “Your love has given me great joy and encouragement, because you have refreshed the hearts of the saints (Philemon 1:7). Thank you!”

Comments:

1. Bob, Amy, Emily, Meredith and Abby Says:
   December 30th, 2006 at 8:22 am e

   You have such a sweet spirit, Katy!! Just like your mom. :0) Love you all!

   Amy and family

2. Karen Tillman Says:
   December 30th, 2006 at 2:45 pm e

   Dear Katy,

   Wasn’t it just wonderful to let your parents finally get away just to relax and be together. I know that with our kind of illness we often feel guilty about how much time we take from the people we love and cherish. I thank God that you and your family are finally comfortable enough to have your away time so to speak. Give Elle a pet on the head, and tell your folks CONGRATULATIONS from me.
   Love Always
   Karen Tillman
   

3. Aleah Yunger Says:
   December 30th, 2006 at 5:17 pm e

   Katy, what a lovely entry! I love your sense of humor I know I just got back from spending time with you, but I just wanted to thank you for the blessing you are. Your parents certainly have something to celebrate - in their 33 years together, they guided three amazing individuals into Godly lives. It was wonderful spending time with you & Paul! Hope you have a blessed evening with your parents Love you!!

4. Doris Harriff Says:
   December 30th, 2006 at 7:13 pm e

   Katy, I only met your mother once (when Colin was 3 years old), but I feel I have learned to know her through these pages, just as I have learned to know you. I’m in complete agreement with Aleah, too, about the way they have guided their family. It all says a lot about your grandparents, too.

   That comment from Amy about you having the same sweet spirit as your mother, reminds me of a young lady I once knew who was adopted, how completely she became her adopted parents’ child - she looked like her Dad, and sang like her Mom (and she sang beautifully). You, too, have become completely your parents’ child even though you were not born to them.

5. Heather Kirkwood Says:
   December 30th, 2006 at 7:24 pm e

   Hey Katy!
   Nice to see you posting. Grin! And I’m glad you’ve also had a wonderful “normal” few days just doing the things we all need to do in life. I hope you have a wonderful new year!!!

6. Sandy Says:
   December 30th, 2006 at 8:51 pm e

   Hi Katy,

   I was so glad to see this update and know things are going fine with you. I’m glad your parents were able to get away and celebrate their anniversary! Enjoy the hope and expectation of the new year! And take good care.

Abundant Life

The house is clean, the refrigerator is stocked, the laundry is done, our bags are being packed, and Paul and I are almost ready to leave for a three-day vacation. Just after Katy was diagnosed with HPS, our Pastor came to visit us and told us that someone had offered to send us somewhere so Paul and I could get away for a rest. We don’t know who it is or if they read the blog but I just want them to know how much this means to us, especially because it is our anniversary. There were so many nights we spent apart, and so many times the stress was hard to bear. During some of those times, I would think about that offer and know that one day the time would come that we could enjoy each other and make some new memories. I wondered if they have been through a similar trial and knew how badly a marriage needs a time of joy after hardship. We will honor your gift, enjoy every minute, and have already prayed several times that the blessing you have given us would come back to you ten-fold.

In my study of scripture I have found that there is a misquoted verse that I have used before, until I learned the truth. The phrase, “God will not give you more than you can handle,” is not in the Bible. The verse reads as follows, “He will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, He will also provide a way out, so that you can stand up under temptation.” (1 Corinthians 10:13b). When I learned that the verse was about temptation and not about unbearable situations, I suddenly was free to feel all the emotions of sorrow, fear, and grief, without guilt.

I actually felt God’s pleasure the day I read 1 Corinthians 1:8-11 and found out that the Apostle Paul admitted himself that he felt overwhelmed, just as we did when we understood the seriousness of Katy’s condition. The Apostle Paul said, “We were under great pressure, far beyond our ability to endure, so we despaired even of life. Indeed in our hearts we felt the sentence of death. But this happened that we might not rely on ourselves but God, who raises from the dead. He has delivered us from such a deadly peril, and he will deliver us in the future. On Him we have set our hope, that He will continue to deliver us, as you help by your prayers.” So beloved friends, anytime you are going through unbearable times, we hope you will rely on the comfort of your Heavenly Father. He may have someone come alongside of you, to pray with you, to weep with you, and to give you comfort, so that you will know that it’s normal when you feel you cannot bear the pressure one more day. He can, and promises to carry our burdens for us. “Cast all your cares upon Him for He cares for you.” (1 Peter 5:7). That’s what the abundant life is all about.

Comments:

1. Laura Griffith Says:
   December 26th, 2006 at 9:33 pm e

   I would like to know where you are going but then again it seems more like a honeymoon if kept in suspense. I pray you have a wonderful time.

   Happy New Year!!!

2. Jess Lankford Says:
   December 27th, 2006 at 11:51 am e

   Dawn and Paul!
   We are praying that you have a wonderful time as well!! That your hearts, bodies and souls would be refreshed and reunited after these long hard months!

   Thank you for your post this morning! It is so encouraging - like having an older sister whispering in my ear that it’s all ‘ok’ and that God is in control!

   Jes

3. Heather Kirkwood Says:
   December 27th, 2006 at 12:26 pm e

   I’m so glad you all are getting a chance to get away for a while. How wonderful! As for the guilt, I’m so glad you were able to let some of that go. It’s a pretty common emotion among the HPS’ers I talk with every day and their families as well. But, it’s something we’ve just got to let go of - easier said than done sometimes though.

4. Doris Harriff Says:
   December 27th, 2006 at 12:55 pm e

   Have a very good mini-vacation! You know, Dawn, I’ve often had that verse misquoted to me when I was carrying a burden that seemed to heavy to bear. I’ve even pointed out that it says tempted, only to be told, well, it means both.

   Aunt Doris

5. Ib & Patricia Says:
   December 29th, 2006 at 5:26 pm e

   Happy 32nd….and have a really great, yet restful time.
   Just returned from Linda’s father’s funeral. Bunches of people in P’burg say “hi” as we were there Wed/Thurs.
   So glad that Katy is doing so well so that you are able to accept this gift.
   Peace, Love and Joy,
   Ib & Patricia

6. Julie Says:
   December 29th, 2006 at 8:04 pm e

   Happy Anniversary! I’m sure you’re having a wonderful time. We love you!