Spurgeon

Jes’ comment from yesterday is just a small picture of the joys of studying Spurgeon. I hope to meet him on the other side to tell him how much we enjoyed his writing. Katy and I have immersed ourselves in the study of Daniel and I stayed at the hospital until two in the morning looking up scripture with her. Daniel’s prayer in chapter nine could have been written by any one of us today. Think of the joy we will have in heaven when we sit together with the prophets and disciples and fully understand the scriptures revealed to them when they walked the earth. I don’t know about you, but I’m planning on looking for the talking donkey, too (Numbers 22:30).

In all the tears and frustrations of our saga, I have to report with great joy that the lice are gone. It could have been all the chemicals that drove them away but the girls and I sang loudly when we were getting our lice treatments. Try singing, “Hit the road, lice, and don’t ya come back no mo’ no mo’ ” (to the tune of Hit the Road Jack). If you can imagine me with Katy and Qavah in our chemical caps singing that song together with our pretend microphones it may be good for a chuckle. But I do believe we have conquered. YES!

We were not able to bring Katy home yesterday. Her nausea intensified yesterday and she had to stop drinking her nutrition drink when vomiting started. Her doctor decided to keep watching that overnight. Katy is being forced to fast. I wonder what manner of healing may be taking place? On Sunday’s drive we decided to choose peace in the midst of what may look like a storm. This may very well be what Katy needs to cleanse her system. I can’t explain it but Paul and I are not alarmed at this point. We are stepping back to watch what the Lord will do in this situation.

When I left the hospital last night, the night guard patrolling the lobby walked me over the bridge to the parking structure and to my car. He had a uniform, badge, and a gun. I felt pretty safe! But after I got home my thoughts returned to Katy and anxiety set in again. Paul picked up the Bible and read, “When anxiety was great within me, your consolation brought joy to my soul.” (Psalm 94:19). Ah yes, the One Who walks beside me is better than a mortal man in uniform with a badge and gun. I fell asleep and slept for hours.

Comments:

1. Heather Kirkwood Says:
   October 11th, 2007 at 12:07 pm e

   Oh, I’m so sorry to hear Katy didn’t get to come home. And even sorrier that she’s still having so much trouble. We keep praying for her daily. There’s a whole posse in Kansas she doesn’t even know praying for her.

2. Doris Harriff Says:
   October 11th, 2007 at 12:24 pm e

   Dawn, you said, “I wonder what kind of healing is taking place.” I’m thinking, too, that maybe the forced fasting is ridding her body of some things that are harmful to her. If so, praise the Lord! If not - well, He knows best!
   God bless you all!
   Aunt Doris

3. Karen Tillman Says:
   October 11th, 2007 at 7:06 pm e

   Hey gang,
   So sry to hear that Katy did not get to come home, and hope that she can real soon. It is not uncommon to have to fast when having nausea and vomitting issues, so don’t be to alarmed, as long as they are keeping her hydrated well. We will continue to pray for her here as well.
   Love and prayers
   karen tillman

4. David and Lizi Says:
   October 11th, 2007 at 8:30 pm e

   Just wanted to drop a line and let you know we are praying for you guys. Not a day goes by that we do not think of you. Praise the Lord the lice are gone. We love you and are praying that this valley will become a peak soon.
   Love, David and Lizi

5. Linda Roley Says:
   October 11th, 2007 at 8:37 pm e

   I am Danae Wensley’s Aunt Linda. As I was checking up on Katy today, I read the Heavenly Realm post regarding her time with Jesus. I wanted to share with you a book I have just finished reading by William Young called The Shack. In it is a similar encounter with the Godhead that brought great relief from suffering. I thought you might be encouraged by it.
   Please know that I think of you all often and bring you before the throne of grace.

6. Lillian Oliveira Says:
   October 11th, 2007 at 9:31 pm e

   Hey, folks, why don’t some of us fast with Katy for a day? I can do it tomorrow or Saturday. Fast and pray for her, and let her know she has company in fasting for just a little while. I know that gives power to our prayers, and I think it would give encouragement to Katy. Water only! OKay, with salt if you prefer, like Katy’s normal saline! (sugar will make you VERY hungry!)

   Hang in there Katy, God is on the throne, He never forsakes His own, His promise is true, He will not forget you! He is still on His Throne! Love, Aunt Lil

7. Donna Wilson Says:
   October 12th, 2007 at 7:33 am e

   Hi Katy, my heart hurts for you. I love Lillian’s idea of praying and fasting–I’m doing it today! Love and prayers, ~Donna~

8. Laura Griffith Says:
   October 12th, 2007 at 12:05 pm e

   As I’m sitting here feeding my face at the moment and will be attending my 20 year class reunion this evening…I will commit to a fast tomorrow but can pray “without ceasing” now. I didn’t know you were still dealing with the lice. I do hope they stay away. They are awful critters. I will pray that strength, encouragement, knowledge and grace will come your way.

   In His Love,
   Laura

Making a plan

This morning the bacteria tests came back negative for MRSA. That is a huge relief. The boils under Katy’s arm are not MRSA, which means that she can be released to come home. The cause of her pancreatic problems are unknown but we suspect one of the drugs Katy was taking (Imuran). It has now been taken out of Katy’s care plan. Imuran can cause problems with the pancreas and this usually happens after the first month of therapy. Katy was into her second month of using it. Therefore, some of the relief she has had in the past from taking it will be taken away as well. We have got to keep trusting that God knows and sees all of this.

Yesterday, throughout the day, there were several things that happened at the hospital that made us realize that the medical staff there is frustrated, too. They have done the best they can but we are hearing more often that “we need to take Katy somewhere else.” The comments and questions have seemed more like an attack than an effort to help. We just finished reading the book, How Doctors Think and found that it is quite common for physicians to become negative about a patient’s care after they have exhausted their ideas. I was glad that we read the book as it has given us an understanding that there are two sides of this story. However sometimes I want to get tough and say, “Look, Katy is the one suffering here so get over yourself!” I have managed to bite my tongue so far. We pray for all of her doctors every day, not just for wisdom but for their spouses and families. It helps us keep in perspective that they are human, and have other dimensions to their lives.

Katy is still very nauseated but is using a liquid food supplement to keep her strength up. We can manage these problems at home and plan to bring Katy home today if possible. Hospitals are places that offer healing but home is better and we feel it is time to manage her care here. We have had times of frustration with the symptoms of HPS, but are able to care for Katy without being frustrated with her.

Comments:

1. Karen Tillman Says:
   October 10th, 2007 at 11:30 am e

   Dawn,
   I am so relieved that she does not have MRSA. My friend Karen B had that and wound up incapacitated, and actually quadraplegic for several months. She was in the hospital for 10 months, and by God’s grace is able to walk again. We had almost given up hope that she wouldn’t die, but it was obvious God had other plans for her as well. So, today I am thanking God for the good news of no MRSA, and pray that you guys can find some answers to Katy’s care. Sometimes it seems that all of this is overwhelming, but I always take solace in the fact that God holds each of us in His hands, and He knows how to best use these situations to not only help us to grow, but to have us rely solely on Him, and hopefully bless a few others along the way.
   Love and many prayers
   Karen Tillman

2. Heather Kirkwood Says:
   October 10th, 2007 at 2:10 pm e

   I’m so glad it wasn’t MRSA after all. That’s great news. I’m also reading that book right now, although I haven’t gotten very far because things have been so crazy at work.

3. Sandy Says:
   October 10th, 2007 at 3:39 pm e

   That “How Doctors Think” book is great, and it really validated and explained some of my experiences with doctors. I’m glad you were able to read it.

   Please give Katy a hug from me. You all have been through a lot, and I know all of us e-friends wish we could be there to help and offer support. You continue to be in my prayers.

4. Doris Harriff Says:
   October 10th, 2007 at 3:50 pm e

   I can understand doctors being frustrated when they know so little about a disease; I do, however, have problems with them taking that frustration out on the patient, and blaming them for their own illnesses.

   Continuing to pray for Katy’s wellbeing, and for God’s sustaining power for all you family members.

   Aunt Doris

5. Lillian Oliveira Says:
   October 10th, 2007 at 4:36 pm e

   Sounds like a plan to me. (As my dear friend Helen likes to say!) And I know Someone Else has an even Greater Plan, this marvelous, mysterious Almighty, who “sustains the universe with His mighty power”, and works invisibly doing marvelous things. We pray that Katy’s new doctor will find something better for her GI problems, and that she will be able to eat with pleasure again, SOON. Do you know when she will see that doctor?

   Love, Aunt Lil

6. Patricia Hagsten Says:
   October 10th, 2007 at 5:09 pm e

   Halleluja! God is good!
   Patricia

7. Jes Says:
   October 11th, 2007 at 6:00 am e

   Dawn -
   I’m so sorry that the medical community is still not being supportive. I read this and my heart aches for all of you. I know you can provide a more comforting enviornment for Katy at home right now and I’m so thankful that she can be there.

   Your previous post - about remembering the Sunday drive reminded me of something Spurgeon wrote: “Go back, then, a little way to the choice mercies of yesterday, and though all may be dark now, light up the lamps of the past, they shall glitter through the darkness and you shall trust in the Lord until the day breaks and the shadows flee away.”

   Thank you for your practical example - of how we can remember God’s mercies during trials. I am praying that God may bless you and your family today, my friend. For you are such a blessing to others!

   Jess

Yesterday

The memories we had of yesterday’s drive kept Katy and me encouraged all night. I woke up every two hours to give her pain medication and she was already awake and waiting. We recalled the changing of the leaves and the music and message of Wellspring Presbyterian church, where we worship. We had a one o’clock appointment today to see Katy’s doctor, and he examined her and told us we should not take her home. It was his recommendation to put her back in the hospital, and that is where she is now. Her pancreas and liver function tests have been taken. Her inability to eat, along with her abdominal issues were one thing to consider. But Katy has also developed something on her skin that is suspicious. It was cultured and IV antibiotics are being started before the results are back.

Katy knows her future is secure. She knows Who holds tomorrow. Her faith is unwavering, but she longs for heaven. It is an intense longing for the blessing of rest from what seems like unending trials. She is not contemplating anything horrible. She is not particularly filled with depression. She just longs for the peace and rest she knows is waiting for her and all who believe in the finished work of the cross; the death and resurrection of the Lord Jesus Christ.

This day’s events cannot steal the joy we had yesterday. The earth was filled with His glory and we were together to enjoy all that beauty. Our hearts were mended in so many ways. Thank you for your prayers. We thank our precious church family. We came home to get Katy’s belongings and found a meal in our refrigerator and one hot and ready in the oven. God bless you for that!

Comments:

1. Doris Harriff Says:
   October 8th, 2007 at 7:23 pm e

   Thank God she is finally getting some treatment for the pancreatitis and the infection. And thank God for the good afternoon yesterday!

   Aunt Doris

2. Lindsay Says:
   October 8th, 2007 at 7:40 pm e

   Dear Katy!
   So glad that you had a beautiful day with your family yesterday I will be praying for you during your stay in the hospital.
   Love,
   Lindsay

3. Heather Kirkwood Says:
   October 8th, 2007 at 7:49 pm e

   Oh Katy, I’m sorry to hear your back in…you know all these drugs that make our immune system wonky can cause us to catch all kinds of stuff. I hope they get it cleared up quickly.

4. Sandy Says:
   October 8th, 2007 at 7:50 pm e

   I’m glad you saw some beautiful things and have some time at home together over the weekend! We will pray you through another hospital stay.

5. Lillian Oliveira Says:
   October 8th, 2007 at 8:46 pm e

   Katy, if I am so desperately homesick to return to Florida to STAY, I can only partially imagine how homesick for heaven you must be, after the time you have spent there. I deeply long to be there, and get a mist of tears of longing nearly daily - yet I have no trials to speak of here. May the Lord Jesus give you comfort and relief from this deep longing. Even mine is not easy to live with, and I, too, do not know how long the wait will be. We know it is promised, and it awaits us. And in the midst of the storm, OUR ANCHOR HOLDS. Do you know that hymn, I wonder? I’ll send you the words.

   Love, Aunt Lil

6. Jennifer S. :-) Says:
   October 8th, 2007 at 8:57 pm e

   Katy,
   While my heart aches to hear that you are back in the hospital, I am thankful for the brief respite you had at home and out driving yesterday. God knew how desperately your heart needed that encouragement! I am thankful for His provision and mercy and for the compassion of His people. The meals being left for you warms my heart.
   We are in prayer for you and your family.
   Love and prayers,
   Jen

7. Patricia Says:
   October 8th, 2007 at 11:24 pm e

   I just feel like crying out, “Oh NO! Not another setback!!!” Don’t give up Katy … you’ve had a foretaste, yes, but also you’ve received assurances of a brighter future and being used by your Heavenly Father on this earth.
   Hopefully the meds have given you relief from the pancreatitis you so desperately needed. Pain can wear even the most stalwart individuals down.
   Once again….none of this surprises God …. and may we each trust Him in the present and for the future.
   Love you all!!
   Patricia & Ib

8. Barbara Walker Says:
   October 9th, 2007 at 11:34 am e

   Dear Katy - Only one who has suffered as you have and has the love of Jesus as you have would understanding your longing for your heavenly home. Wonderful things await us there and I know I have longed for that peaceful place myself many times!

   You are a precious young lady and I admire you so much. I have a CD to give you when you get home. I’ll stay plugged into the blog so I can track your progress.

   Love to all of you in Christ,

   Barbara

9. Karen Tillman Says:
   October 9th, 2007 at 11:59 am e

   Dear Katy,
   I am so sry to hear that you are back in the hospital. I pray that whatever this skin thing is will be taken care of soon. I know you feel your journey here is tiresome, as many of us with HPS often do, but remember you are not alone in this. I am here praying for you daily, and understand many of the things you’ve gone and are going through. You are coming into this with so much more advantages than any of the rest of us ever had in the beginning. Stay focused on the positive, and know that somehow your struggle is blessing someone’s heart more deeply than you can possibly imagine. May God lay his blessings on you today, and comfort you always with his unfailing love.
   Love always
   Karen Tillman

10. andrea Says:
    October 9th, 2007 at 8:53 pm e

    I read this prayer a few days ago and want to post it here………

    Oh Lord, incline our hearts to your word and to its assurances that you “work all things according to the counsel of your will” and that ” no purpose of yours can be thwarted” and that you are doing good and acting wisely in ways we cannot now even dream. Keep us in peace, Oh Lord, and forbid that we murmur and complain. Grant us humble and submissive hearts under your mighty hand. Teach us to wait and watch for your final and holy purposes in all things. Grant us that we would “rejoice in hope” even when present circumstances bring us to tears. Open the eyes of our hearts to see the greatness of our inheritance in Christ, and send us with tender hands to touch with mercy the miseries and sufferings of this world.

    In Jesus Name we pray, amen.

    In His grip
    Andrea

11. Lillian Oliveira Says:
    October 9th, 2007 at 9:43 pm e

    Here is the song: MY ANCHOR HOLDS by W.C. Matthew

    Though the angry surges roll o’er my tempest-driven soul
    I am peaceful for I know wildly though the winds may blow
    I’ve an Anchor safe and sure which will evermore endure.

    Mighty tides about me sweep, perils lurk within the deep
    Angry clouds o’ershade the sky, and the tempest rises high;
    Still I stand the tempest’s shock, for my anchor grips the rock.

    Chorus: And it HOLDS, MY ANCHOR FIRMLY HOLDS,
    Blow your wildest then, Oh Gale, on my bark so small and frail
    By His grace I shall prevail, for my anchor holds, my anchor holds!

    I can feel the anchor fast as I meet each sudden blast
    And the cable, though unseen, bears the heavy strain between; Through the storm I safely ride, till the turning of the tide.

    Troubles almost ‘whelm the soul; Griefs like billows o’er me roll; Tempters seek to lure astray; storms obscure the light of day; BUT IN CHIRST I CAN BE BOLD, I’VE AN ANCHOR THAT SHALL HOLD!

    See if Paul Burton knows this and can play it on the piano for you. (when you’re home again) It has powerful, evocative music, and I love to thunder it out on the piano (mistakes and all!) There is a wonderful bass part in the chorus. It always blesses me tremendously. May it bless you and help you to feel that anchor holding firmly - and being HELD! - by the Rock! Love, Aunt Lil

12. Heather Kirkwood Says:
    October 10th, 2007 at 12:11 am e

    Hey Katy,
    Just checking in on you before I go to bed. I hope that you’re sleeping peacefully, getting some of that healing rest, and on the mend.

Change of Seasons

This morning we girls woke up slowly. Paul left for church and I read Qavah a story from her little children’s Bible. While still in our pajamas we turned on a tape and marched all around her room to the music of When the Saints go Marching In. Qavah loves music of every kind and she really enjoyed the marching. Katy was strong enough to get dressed so when Paul arrived home we were ready to do something different than hang around the house all day.

We took our church’s Sunday service recorded from last week, and put the girls in the car for a ride on the parkway. The leaves are just beginning to turn all those delightful shades of orange, green, and yellow so we drove along the parkway in awe of the Lord’s magnificent paintbrush. The sermon was about the joy of suffering. The man who preached that sermon was familiar with heartache and therefore his words were filled with hope for us. It all comes down to trusting that God is for us, and loves us, through all the trials this life brings our way. The message had us in tears several times because the emotions are still so raw. But while the tears flowed we looked out across the Blue Ridge Mountains on this beautiful Sabbath day and rested in the knowledge that He Who made the mountains holds us all together as we live out our lives by faith.

Comments:

1. Lillian Oliveira Says:
   October 7th, 2007 at 10:16 pm e

   Beautiful, Dawn! It rested my heartache for you all to think of you driving that Parkway in the midst of God’s palette of tree colors, the mountains merging in the mists, and listening to a sermon that gave hope and comfort through tears. I’m so glad that Katy’s pain level was low enough for her to want to get dressed and go out - I’m sure that was sheer joy after a desperately awful week in the hospital! A paragraph of joy in your life story that’s had so much of pain recently. Many thanks to the Great Joy-Giver!

   Love, Aunt Lil

2. Aleah Yunger Says:
   October 7th, 2007 at 10:38 pm e

   Answered prayers, this is! If nothing more than a spot of joy and a reminder of the comfort that our Father in Heaven pours on us daily. Oh, this had me in tears! I want to be on the Blue Ridge Parkway Praying for you all tonight — sleep and peace for Katy, rest for Dawn, joyful music for Qavah, and a happy home for Paul. Love, Aleah

3. Trisha Ferris Says:
   October 8th, 2007 at 10:05 am e

   I’m so glad that Katy felt well enough to take a joy ride & then to contemplate the concept of joy in suffering. Oh, how upside down the Kingdom of God is. He does delight in relieving pain, but He also delights in showing off his joyful suffering saints. Keep striving for the joy, Katy.
   Trisha

4. Jes Says:
   October 8th, 2007 at 12:32 pm e

   A hearty AMEN to all of the above! We continue to pray for rest and healing…

   Jes

Saturday night

I wanted to post a brief update. Katy has been home all day. Her body, joints, and abdomen, are aching, and the nausea has made it harder. Although I was very concerned this morning I didn’t want to take her back to the doctor. A friend of mine who is a Physician Assistant working with local GI doctors came to take a look at her this afternoon. She looked at the copies of labs we brought home, Katy’s hydration, and decided that we should just stay home from the hospital until we can see a different GI doctor. There is one that has expressed great interest in taking over her case but he is out of the country for two weeks. Before we left RMH I asked them to run pancreas function tests because Katy was telling me she felt similar to the way she did when she had pancreatitis. The levels of amylase and lipase were both high. That explained the nausea and why she wasn’t wanting to eat. However, the levels are not so high that she can’t drink fluids and keep them down, so hydration is not a problem. We are keeping her pain medications going around the clock which has helped her get some rest. We’ll know more in a couple of days of fasting where this is all going. Tonight we are setting up a DVD for Katy and Qavah to watch before bedtime and praying for a good night together at home.

When I read Sandy’s comment yesterday about finding the right doctor, it gave me so much hope. Your prayers for such a person mean so much to us. We know we have to keep looking for that one and do our part, but we also trust that God is preparing such a person even now.

Comments:

1. Lillian Oliveira Says:
   October 6th, 2007 at 10:10 pm e

   Dear Katy, Dawn and all of you. I’m so glad to see your note again, and that Katy is home, - home, that wonderful place! though still not over the top for recovery. How good that you got the info on the pancreatic enzymes, and that God brough by someone who could read the lab work meaninlyfully, and know what it is safe to do. We are anxious for that doctor to get home! Do you know the date of his coming? May he be the one to really dig into these mysteries and provide the help that Katy and all of you so desperately need.

   I’m praying that the Sabbath will be one of rest for all of you - emotionally, spiritually, and physicallyas well - for Katy, with the pain meds as needed. And I hope the DVD was a happy distraction, with lots of laughter with its own healing power by our Father’s design. Much love, Aunt Lil

2. Jennifer S. :-) Says:
   October 6th, 2007 at 10:23 pm e

   I am so glad to hear that you are home, Katy. I know that it is more comfortable to sleep and rest in your own home and I am thankful for that. I pray that you sleep well tonight and have a blessed Sabbath–a day of rest–tomorrow.
   Love and prayers,
   Jen

3. Patricia Hagsten Says:
   October 6th, 2007 at 10:52 pm e

   If Katy can keep down fluids there are plenty of options from Ensure to the Quixtar nutritionally-balanced beverages to electrolyte-balancing fluids such as Gatorade or even, possibly, nectars such as pear or apricot which will give some bit of fiber. The various powdered or already-prepared nutritional drinks also have some which are high caloric …. and that, especially, might be beneficial at this time at Katy is in need of rebuilding and maintaining her strength following hospitalization so she doesn’t become prey to viruses in the air, etc.
   So glad she is in the home environment once again … not only for her and your sakes, but ESPECIALLY for Qavah …. as a reassurance to her and for stability in her new environement. Have a blessed Sabbath! Ib and Patricia

4. Julie Says:
   October 7th, 2007 at 9:52 am e

   What Sandy said about the struggles we in the HPS group (I am an HPS-like member of the group) have had in finding doctors who would not only be interested in our case but caring enough to follow through when they see conventional medical knowledge and practice aren’t explaining what is happening to our bodies. We all can share stories of the frustration and sometimes embarrassment in being made to feel like our illnesses and symptoms are emotional/psychological based, or that we are not following the prescribed medication plan or “if you would just eat” (I just love that one). Truth is, at least I would prefer to believe, is that doctors handling our cases are frustrated too. They see our pain and struggles and they can’t seem to find the answers. Our cases must be terribly frustrating for them as we don’t have medical issues that fit nicely and neatly into a disease category or a treatment plan. Standard treatments that work for others, don’t necessarily work for us.

   Anyway, we continue to pray for each of you as you go through this very challenging time. We pray that you keep heart and trust that you WILL find a doctor who WILL care for and follow through with trying to find answers or at least a treatment plan that will work for Katy.

5. Karen Tillman Says:
   October 7th, 2007 at 11:00 am e

   Dear Campbell family,
   I am so sry I have not checked in as much as I would like, but I think you know that I am having some of my own difficulties at the moment. I do understandabout doctors being out of the country. My normal GI doc has been out of the country for 15 days during this flare up, and my other doc was in a hiking accident. Maybe God is trying to teach all of us patience!! GRIN Anyway my GI will be back tomorrow, and i will be so glad. Just wanted you to know that I am still praying for Katy and the rest of you too, and thinking about all of you continually, and praying for Katy to have some relief.
   Love and many prayers
   Karen Tillman

6. Patricia Hagsten Says:
   October 7th, 2007 at 7:14 pm e

   DITTO! With Lisa struggling with fibromyalgia we’ve also been the route of doctor challenges with something else that is an “it’s all in your head” syndrome.
   Most doctors had never heard of her diagnosis at 13 with costochondritis and even fewer have known how to diagnose and deal with these various manifestations of “syndromes” which show up in various peoples’ bodies in vastly different time frames and combinations when she was diagnosed with fibromyalgia at 18.
   Quite honestly, the frankest doctors will often simply state, honestly, “There’s a lot we don’t know in medicine and a lot we simply don’t have the answers for.” Life is a mystery which each generation seems to be unraveling and revealing more and more …. but we’ll only see clearly “some day.”
   One of our dearest friends from Purdue Univ. days died of dehydration with Krohn’s (I think she had 3 major resectioning of bowels and never weighed more than 76 lbs.) and another with M.S. who also has Krohn’s. Anyway, before church this morning I spoke with a local friend of mine who struggles with Krohn’s Disease and I knew she had begun a new combination of medicines several months ago and that she, too, had experienced horrible problems with Prednisone previously. She’s very pleased with a combination of 2 meds: Asacol, which she takes 4 of in the a.m. and 4 of each evening in combination with Entercort three times a day. Entercort is a synthetic steroid which does not have the adverse side effects, at least in her body, that Prednisone has. Additionally, she said the more recent “God send” for her was daily dosages of common, ordinary Caltrate. Just food for thought or discussion.
   Gotta run and take Ib to the airport!
   Love you guys!

Through many dangers toils and snares

Yesterday I called Katy early in the morning to ask her what I could bring to the hospital. She said she didn’t need anything and wanted Paul and I to stay home. She said she could see what she was putting us through, how exhausting it was, and asked if we would just stay home. We were hurting so badly for her that we wanted to ignore her request and run to the hospital just to hold her. She told us that she needed to be alone. Sensing that her spirit was deeply wounded by some of the things that have happened this hospital visit, we worked by telephone all day to find another GI practice and help for her, but by the end of the day we had gotten nowhere. Along with sensing her despair, I had to listen to all the reasons why “insurance wouldn’t cover” or “we just don’t have time to research,” and by the end of the day I wondered what part of the day to salvage and pronounce “good.” All the while, we stopped and prayed several times for Katy’s situation.

About ten o’clock last night the phone rang and it was Katy. Her voice was quiet but peaceful. For the next two hours she told us how she had spent the day in prayer, telling the Lord many of the things that were on her heart and asking, “why?” We listened to her tell us about the way she worked through her spiritual struggle, and how she felt at peace about everything, even the feelings of abandonment by the medical community, and how her heart was at rest. She told us that she felt the hospital had done their job in balancing her electrolytes and they had treated her bacterial infection, so today the plan is to bring her home.

About four days ago her abdomen began to spasm and the muscle movement is clearly visible. As her colon is twisting and pulsating, she is in terrible pain. The result of four days of that has been that she cannot hold food down. The GI doctor on call came to see her and proclaimed that, “you need to find someone who knows about this disease and have them help you.” As she has tried to eat over the past four days, food returns to her mouth filled with stomach acid. For a second time in this past year a physician has crossly told her that she would get better if she would just eat. We have taken Katy to two University hospitals, asked for help from National Institutes of Health, and she has been hospitalized eight times in the past year. To know that God has given Katy the grace to forgive, and accept that her care is what it is, happens to be the part of the day that I can pronounce good. I understand why she needed a day to ask the Lord, “why?”

Through many dangers, toils, and snares, we have already come. Even the dangers of hopeless thoughts are being healed by the mercy of God.

Comments:

1. Doris Harriff Says:
   October 5th, 2007 at 9:10 am e

   My heart aches for Katy, and for Paul & Dawn. Her GI problems are obvious, yet an MD is heartless enough to suggest she can fix it herself! My prayers are going up to the Lord to touch Katy’s body, and to use this situation for His glory. I know you know this, Katy, but I think it must surely help to be told from time to time that someday this will all be over and you will be with the Lord forever.

   God bless.
   Aunt Doris

2. Sandy Says:
   October 5th, 2007 at 9:27 am e

   I’ve been around the block a few times with the medical community as well, and have heard all of these same kinds of disheartening comments from doctors too (eat more, try harder, stop focusing on symptoms). Those are the doctors who I have left behind in search of others who aren’t quite so tied up in their own ego that they blame the patient when they can’t figure out what to do. And, you know, all it takes is ONE good one to turn things around. One doctor who will listen, learn, fight the system, carry part of the burden with them rather than leaving it all to the patient and their family. There are doctors like that out there, I promise.

   I hope Katy is able to come home today and you all find some restorative rest this weekend. Take good care of yourselves and each other. We will continue to lift you in prayer.

3. Barbara Walker Says:
   October 5th, 2007 at 11:22 am e

   Dear Katy and Family,

   Sadly, I know exactly what you are experiencing as we went through this with Jeff’s cancer. It seems that you are totally abondoned and on your own in the medical world and in other parts of your life as well. But you know and I know that its how you are when you reach the other side of an extreme challenge like this that is important and that that is where God’s grace and mercy come in. Even knowning this, our spirits can flag in the midst of extreme pain and fatigue.

   You all have handled this in the most godly way possible. I admire your spirits and efforts. We are praying many times a day for all of you and I know others are too. I know you’re feeling the peace of those prayers. In the times I don’t know what to pray, I ask the Holy Spirit to groan to our Lord on your behalf.

   I pray things will be better at home for you. We will be prayerful about that as well! Hang in there!

   Love to you in Christ,

   Barbara

4. Patricia Hagsten Says:
   October 5th, 2007 at 11:58 am e

   In prayerful support and love.
   A great big SHALOM as you bring Katy home and continue your searching and seeking.

   Patricia

5. Jes Says:
   October 5th, 2007 at 2:04 pm e

   Katy -
   I’m working through my Bible study - in 2 Cor. 6:3-4, Paul is talking about ‘giving no cause for offense in anything, so that the ministry will not be discredited, but in everything commending ourselves as servents of God, in much endurance, in afflictions, in hardships, in distresses….’ I thought of you as I read the words - you have been through so much and yet you have much endurance through your afflictions, hardships and distress. Kay Arthor writes “To endure means to stay under pressure, to stay with it, to stick to it, to not quit but instead to persevere….Hardships become a platform, an arena to appropriate and display the sufficiency of His grace.” Katy - you have an amazing platform - where people are watching your responses and you are commending yourself as a servent of God! To forgive and to accept the way you have shows the Holy Spirit working supernaturally in and through you! You are bringing glory to God through your spirit and actions.

   We love you and continue to pray…
   Jess

6. Kendall Pelish Says:
   October 5th, 2007 at 2:05 pm e

   Hey Katy, check verse 10

   You Will Not Abandon My Soul
   A Miktam [1] of David.

   16:1 Preserve me, O God, for in you I take refuge.
   2 I say to the Lord, “You are my Lord;
   I have no good apart from you.”

   3 As for the saints in the land, they are the excellent ones,
   in whom is all my delight. [2]

   4 The sorrows of those who run after [3] another god shall multiply;
   their drink offerings of blood I will not pour out
   or take their names on my lips.

   5 The Lord is my chosen portion and my cup;
   you hold my lot.
   6 The lines have fallen for me in pleasant places;
   indeed, I have a beautiful inheritance.

   7 I bless the Lord who gives me counsel;
   in the night also my heart instructs me. [4]
   8 I have set the Lord always before me;
   because he is at my right hand, I shall not be shaken.

   9 Therefore my heart is glad, and my whole being [5] rejoices;
   my flesh also dwells secure.
   10 For you will not abandon my soul to Sheol,
   or let your holy one see corruption. [6]

   11 You make known to me the path of life;
   in your presence there is fullness of joy;
   at your right hand are pleasures forevermore.

7. Lillian Oliveira Says:
   October 5th, 2007 at 2:33 pm e

   I got this post late today, as I had a guest, a church friend for breakfast. She has prayed for Katy so I brought her in to check for news, and read it to her. I was all broken up with tears as I finished. I read Sandy’s comment and said again, “Where, oh, where is that Doctor?” Yes, in my medical career I have found those who will go the extra mile - they are the ones who win Nobel Prizes. I am reminded of the song, “Not to the strong is the battle, nor to the swift is the race, but to the true and the faithful, VICTORY IS PROMISED THROUGH GRACE! We’ve never seen any better examples of “true and faithful”, than in all of you, and we know your Victor’s Crown is growing spectacular! Those are the ones we get to throw at Jesus’ feet! What joy that will be! May Katy’s home day be greatly blessed and may the Lord help her eat some blueberry pancakes!

   Love, Aunt Lil

8. Jennifer S. :-) Says:
   October 5th, 2007 at 5:11 pm e

   Katy,
   It makes me angry to hear about those doctors who speak before they think. If only they understood the power of their words. I praise God for the forgiving heart He has given Katy–He is working through her even in this difficult time and I am so thankful for it. His love is a refining fire and I pray that your whole family will have the needed strength and grace to get through this valley. I hope Katy will get to come home soon!
   Love and prayers,
   Jen

9. andrea Says:
   October 5th, 2007 at 7:58 pm e

   I dont know if it is of any help whatsoever, but I put it out on my blog too, that we all are looking for help for Katy. Of course I am not well worded, but I put it out there anyways!

   My prayers are with all of you!!!!

   Love Andrea

10. Oma Collmus Says:
    October 6th, 2007 at 2:09 pm e

    Dear Precious Katy,
    I just talked to your Granddaddy and he told me that you are home. Now we will pray that the doctor will get home soon from Russia and that he will be able to help you. In the meantime I pray that your pain will lessen and that you can rest and get a good night’s sleep.
    After I talked to him I went downtown. Each year they celebrate “In the Streets” and Market Street is open for only pedestrians. There are many food stands and all the shops are open. First I had some lamb curry and rice at the Indian restaurant, then walked around a bit and came back home with a smoked turkey leg which will probably last me for several meals!
    It is 90 degrees at the moment–not much like fall weather. I’ve been enjoying watching some of my favorite birds eating the seeds on my dead flower heads–chickadees and goldfinches. The titmouse and nuthatch have also been at my feeders.
    Lots of us are praying for you constantly.
    Oceans and oceans of love,
    Oma

11. Jen L. Says:
    October 6th, 2007 at 4:38 pm e

    I’m working again tonight and was going to come visit you on my dinner break. Well, I guess I’ll have to bring my munchkins to your house to visit Qavah! I’m praying the doctors will take care of our Katy-bug!

    Hugs!!

12. Heather Kirkwood Says:
    October 6th, 2007 at 6:39 pm e

    Katy,
    Just wanted you to know that we’re still praying for you here. I hope that you’re doing better, and maybe even able to eat something, even if it’s only a little ensure, or jello or something else on the “mush diet.”

Wednesday Evening

Julie and I just returned from the hospital. Dawn had gone home for a few hours but will be returning shortly. Katy was sleeping when we got there, so we waited outside and called Paul. Katy had to be awakened for medication shortly after that so we went in a spoke with her for a few minutes and prayed with her before we left. Sleep doesn’t come often for her, and it is fitful. I don’t remember ever seeing her look so exhausted. She needs prayers desperately, for her body, and for her spirit. Paul and Dawn also need prayer and support now. If memory serves me correctly, I believe this all began a year ago last July or August. I know it has been over 12 months. It has been such an emotional and physical roller coaster for Katy and her family. There are many needs right now, and hope seems to be in short supply. Would you please pray right now for Katy and her family? And call or email someone else right now and ask them to pray. - Dan

Comments:

1. Sandy Says:
   October 3rd, 2007 at 8:58 pm e

   More prayers from here, and I e-mailed the HPS group (most of whom read this blog anyway) as well as my pastor. So you can count on lots of prayers from all of them.

2. Lindsay Says:
   October 3rd, 2007 at 9:04 pm e

   Katy and Family,
   I am lifting you all up in prayer and have asked others to do the same! Praying for good news and improvement. Sleep well

3. Aunt Carrie Says:
   October 3rd, 2007 at 9:20 pm e

   Every time I sneak a peek at the internet it is with a prayer for Katy. It is still early here and I will pass this prayer request on.
   Aunt Carrie

4. Heather Kirkwood Says:
   October 3rd, 2007 at 9:36 pm e

   My friends in Kansas are all praying, and Sandy’s right. Most of the HPS crew checks in on the blog - several have called or e-mailed concerned about Katy. We’re all concerned. Thanks Dan and Julie for the updates.

5. Aleah Yunger Says:
   October 3rd, 2007 at 9:39 pm e

   Everyone in my Williamsburg & other circles are praying. Not as a last resort, but because the Father hears our cries. Love to all the Campbells tonight, Aleah

6. Patricia Hagsten Says:
   October 3rd, 2007 at 11:52 pm e

   May His everylasting arms hold you up (on eagles’ wings) and surround you with His love and peace.
   Patricia

7. Jennifer Wellington Says:
   October 4th, 2007 at 4:43 am e

   I am praying for your entire family, Katy.

8. jenicepearl Says:
   October 4th, 2007 at 7:34 am e

   Dear Katie, Paul, Dawn, Qavah, Paul Burton and family,
   Praying for hope and healing. We love ya’ll.
   Jenice, Pete, Bakh, Sam, Abby, and Charlotte

9. Karen Tillman Says:
   October 4th, 2007 at 9:44 am e

   Dear folks,
   It is breaking my heart as I am reading the news of no improvement for Katy. Please know that my thoughts and prayers are with all of you. I have been in places where you think hings are doing better, and then you take steps backwards. It is truly frustrating, and that is not even the description as words cannot describe the emotion or exhaustion you must be feeling right now. Somehow I know all this WILL be used for God’s glory as I know he holds all of us in the palm of his hand. Please let Katy know that she is being thought about and prayed for daily. Although we have never met, I feel a real closeness with you guys as many of us with HPS share quite the bond, even those we’ve never personally met. Hang in there and I too will continue to pray for healing and comfort.
   Love In our Savior Jesus Christ
   Karen Tillman

10. Doris Harriff Says:
    October 4th, 2007 at 10:02 am e

    I am always praying for Katy. She is also on the “regular” prayer list for our church, but I also mention needs to the church on a regular basis. I updated the prayermeeting crowd last night, as of Julie’s last post.

    God bless you all, and give you strength!

    Love, Aunt Doris

11. Colin Says:
    October 4th, 2007 at 10:41 am e

    Katy,

    Jenn and I are crying out to God on your behalf for mercy and strength. I’m sorry we haven’t been able to see you much, but we are thinking about you. Perhaps your heavenly rewards grow for every long minute of pain you endure. Isn’t it beyond fantastic to know that one day this will be all over forever and ever in the presence of the One who bought you through His own pain?

    We love you!
    Colin & Jenn

12. Linda Kochendarfer Says:
    October 4th, 2007 at 11:42 am e

    Katy,
    I’m hoping that you will be out of the hospital and recuperating at home when the leaves reach their full color! I know how much you enjoy the beauty of God’s creation. There are many prayers from the saints being lifted up to heaven on behalf of you and your family. Know you are never far from our thoughts and are ever in the Lord’s hands.
    Love,
    Mrs. K

13. Jen L. Says:
    October 4th, 2007 at 12:43 pm e

    Katy, I’m continuing to pray. And as Linda said, I hope you can come home before the leaves are at their peak. You’re in my thoughts and prayers, my sweet sister!
    Jen

14. Bonnye Says:
    October 4th, 2007 at 1:21 pm e

    Praying now and will forward to family and friends.

15. Trisha Ferris Says:
    October 4th, 2007 at 3:27 pm e

    Like thousands of others, I’m sure, I lift up my cries to the Lord on your behalf. The Lord your God is with you.
    Trisha

16. Jennifer Blugerman Says:
    October 4th, 2007 at 7:10 pm e

    Katy,
    To lift your spirits, I just want you to know how much the children and I enjoyed keeping Qavah today!! We had been wanting a chance to get to know her, and the day couldn’t have gone better. First, we played outside, where Qavah kept right up with her older playmates! She especially loved the sliding board on our treehouse and Matt’s old tricycle. Once inside, we ate lunch, then we all baked banana oatmeal cookies together. Qavah loved helping me hold the electric mixer. The kids watched Veggie Tales for a little bit and enjoyed the fruit of their efforts — a warm cookie, but then got right back to work, building a fort in the bottom bunk of Matt’s bed. Then, the girls decided to have a tea party! Luckily I had some decaf ice tea in the fridge! Emma got out her china tea set and they (Matt too!) enjoyed an Oreo and tea — very proper! Emma showed Qavah how to dip her cookie in the tea! Afterwards, Qavah busied herself with Emma’s seemingly endless supply of baby dolls and accessories. When Paul arrived to retrieve Qavah, it seemed as if we had known her forever! But what did Qavah do, after a day of chatting away, squealing with delight, running all over, and even holding my hand and sitting on my lap? She suddenly pretended that she was shy and I couldn’t even get a “bye-bye” from her — until she was in her car seat, at which point she waved and said “bye-bye!’ over, and over, and over with that huge smile of hers!

    All this to say, Katy, that God is moving and working all the time. What a miracle that your little sister is here, and that she is adjusting so beautifully! She is a delight. And I just know that one of the reasons God has placed her in your family is so that she won’t be alone in her physical struggles — she has been given a big sister that can encourage and relate to her like noone else can. Please hang on, Katy, because Qavah needs her big sister. We all need you. We all love you.

    -Jennifer

17. Jennifer S. :-) Says:
    October 4th, 2007 at 7:26 pm e

    Katy,
    I echo Jennifer–please hang on. I owe you a movie night, so you need to come home from the hospital soon.
    I know God is with you and is holding you in His sovereign hands. I wish I knew His reasons for this valley, but I don’t, so I trust you to His goodness. He loves you more than anything. I love you too; please know we are all praying for you!
    Love and prayers,
    Jen

18. Candice and Crystal Says:
    October 4th, 2007 at 8:35 pm e

    Dear Katy,

    We have missed your presence on the computer these past couple of weeks. It hasn’t been the same without you being online and sending an IM to us saying “Hey Girls, Lets catch up”. Our hearts ache for you when we hear that your not improving and we so badly wish that you could be at home enjoying your time with your parents and Qavah. Keep hanging on, and know that there are many HPSers all over the US praying for you to get well soon. We hope and pray today was better for you. Thanks for updating us Dan, We love you Katy, Your sisters in Christ,, Candice & Crystal

19. Patricia Hagsten Says:
    October 5th, 2007 at 1:35 am e

    Amen to each of the above!
    You’re not far from our thoughts!
    Know that the Lord He is good …. and all this is part of His plan! He is surprised by northing, even when we mortals are!!!
    He is working His plan in you …. yes, and in your parents … in His timing and with His grace. He will walk you through each and every step of the way, just lean on Him when you are your weakest!
    Patricia

20. Jane Campbell Says:
    October 5th, 2007 at 7:55 am e

    Dear Katy and Family,
    We’re praying for you all that you will feel God’s arms around you today.
    Please call if I can help you in any way.
    Love,
    The Campbell’s

Tuesday

I know many of you have been checking the blog for updates. I wish I had some good news for you. Katy’s condition has not improved. Her adrenal system and electrolytes are still way out of whack. The pain has continued as well as the muscle spasms and all that go along with that. She is exhausted, and so is Dawn. We are asking for wisdom, for someone who can help unlock this puzzle, for God’s mercy.

We desperately seek your prayers.

~Julie

Comments:

1. Patricia Hagsten Says:
   October 2nd, 2007 at 4:52 pm e

   What a discouragement for all of them. Their trust and faith is so strong … but, then, it’s not the level of human trust but the goodness of God’s grace that will see each of them through.
   Where, oh where, are the knowledgeable ones??? Who is available to rely on the Great Physician for His wisdom?
   Once again, thanks for updating us, Julie.
   Patricia

2. Lillian Oliveira Says:
   October 2nd, 2007 at 5:06 pm e

   Yes, dear ones, we are praying. “When the enemy comes in like a flood, THE SPIRIT OF THE LORD WILL LIFT UP HIS BANNER AGAINST THEM!” We hold to this promise in the Word. We know that our Lord will say “Thus far and no further,” because we know He has planned LIFE for Katy, and without relief, she would not live. We pray and wait. We cannot know the depth of the struggle for Katy and for the family - its beyond our comprehension, but we entrust you all to our merciful Father.

   Love from an aching heart, Aunt Lil

3. Sandy Says:
   October 2nd, 2007 at 6:43 pm e

   Prayers continue from here. Thanks for posting an update.

4. Jennifer S. :-) Says:
   October 2nd, 2007 at 7:04 pm e

   We are before the throne of grace and mercy in prayer for Katy and family. It hurts to hear that there is no improvement, but I pray that even this will be for the best.
   Love and prayers,
   Jen

5. Oma Collmus Says:
   October 2nd, 2007 at 9:08 pm e

   Precious Katy,
   I am praying that you will have a good night’s sleep and while you are sleeping the Great Physician will make those adrenal glands and electrolytes work the way they are supposed to; also, that He will lessen the pains and muscle spasms.
   Dawn, I hope that Paul is home by now and that you two will continue to have the strength and faith you need at this critical time.
   Lots of love to all of you,
   Oma

6. Heather Kirkwood Says:
   October 2nd, 2007 at 10:08 pm e

   I’ve been checking in every so many hours to see how Katy is doing. I’m so sorry to hear there’s been no improvement. I keep praying for you Katy. I’m with Oma - I pray you get some of that healing sleep and some relief. I’ve had several HPS’ers asking about you.

7. Jennifer Blugerman Says:
   October 3rd, 2007 at 8:31 am e

   We are finding comfort and joyful anticipation in the knowledge that God loves to show up when all human efforts have failed so that He alone gets the glory! We ache for you and long for physical healing for Katy, but take heart knowing that God is working in and through all of this.

   -Jennifer

8. Anne Poler Says:
   October 3rd, 2007 at 8:49 am e

   Katy and family,
   Please know we’re praying for you here. We know this is a rough, exhausting time for all. But we would add a hearty “Amen” to Jennifer’s comments. We know our God is able.

   Let us know if there’s anything we can do.

   With love,
   Anne and Mark

Keep praying!

Katy is still in the hospital and needs your prayers. The veins have collapsed in both arms, so they are no longer able to give her hydro-cordisone or anything else by IV. She is in continual pain, has no energy and needs constant attention to keep her electrolytes balanced. Please pray that her adrenal system will kick in and begin to produce what her body needs. Pray for supernatural intervention. Pray for God’s mercy for Katy. We are praying for a miracle.

Qavah is visiting with her grandparents and is keeping them quite entertained, from what I understand. She continues to be a blessing and a joy.

We have been reading “The Heavenly Man” to Katy. It is the amazing biography of Brother Yun, a pastor in China who has been persecuted for sharing Christ. The stories of his torture and persecution are heart wrenching and yet his faith never wavers. It has been such an encouragement to read how God has used this persecution to produce a life of commitment to Christ and intense motivation to continue carrying the message of the Gospel around the world, at any cost. It helps keep everything in perspective.

Thank you, dear friends, for your faithfulness.
~Julie

I lift my eyes up to the mountains, where does my help come from?
My help comes from the Lord, the maker of the Heaven and the earth.
Psalm 121: 1-2

Comments:

1. Candice and Crystal Says:
   October 1st, 2007 at 1:09 am e

   Dear Katy,

   Our hearts go out to you and your family tonight. We are sorry that you are in a lot of pain. How miserable you must be. We pray the Lord will send you HIS healing touch so that you can feel better and get out of the hospital real soon. Don’t be discouraged, keep holding on to Phil 4: 13. Thats the verse the two of us use when we are going through health trials. As long as you have Christ, you can do ANYTHING!! You’ve been through a lot over the past year and HE will give you the strength you need to get through this. Thanks for keeping us posted Jule. Love your sisters in Christ, Candice & Crystal

2. andrea Says:
   October 1st, 2007 at 3:46 am e

   I dont know what to say, but that we are praying for all of you never ceasingly!!

   Love Andrea

3. Aleah Yunger Says:
   October 1st, 2007 at 7:53 am e

   Katy, what does this even mean? How could this make sense in God’s plan? We sing this song in Common Ground called Held — when they made an a cappella tribute CD for VA Tech after April’s tragedy, they selected that song to go on there. One part goes like this:

   “We’re asking why this happens / To us who have died to live / It’s unfair”

   and then the chorus…

   “This is what it means to be held / How it feels when the sacred is torn from your life / And you survive / This is what it means to be loved / And to know that the promise was / When everything fell we’d be held”

   Praise God that He is holding you in the midst of your trial. Please know what a beautiful beacon of God’s light you are, be it while eating a delicious meal or while in a hospital bed. I miss you and love you… Aleah

4. Jennifer Blugerman Says:
   October 1st, 2007 at 9:00 am e

   I admit that I have been struggling to understand the “why” in all that you are going through, Katy. I pray and find myself saying things like, “Lord, why are you allowing this to happen to one who clearly loves you so much, who follows you so closely, to one I know is especially close to your heart…” Then, of course, as I think these thoughts, I am immediately reminded of Christ who loved and obeyed the Father perfectly, and who was the very closest to the heart of God. Yet God allowed His Son to go through horrific suffering and death for His glory and our salvation. So, Katy, I know that somehow God is doing this for His glory and our benefit, and I can only imagine the glories and reward that await you who are suffering with such grace, such joy, and such trust in Him who is allowing it. Truly, …”now we see through a glass darkly, but then face-to-face. Now I know in part; but then shall I know even as I am known.”

   In His grip,
   -Jennifer

5. Jes Says:
   October 1st, 2007 at 9:27 am e

   Katy -
   We are praying for you too. I know this is a really LARGE bump in the road and that you are so miserable. We continue to pray for relief and supernatural intervention!

   We love you!
   Jess

6. Heather Kirkwood Says:
   October 1st, 2007 at 10:18 am e

   Dearest Katy,
   We continue to pray for you in Kansas. Hang in there girl!

7. Fairlight Says:
   October 1st, 2007 at 10:37 am e

   Oh, Katy…Praying for you, dear girl.

8. Doris Harriff Says:
   October 1st, 2007 at 10:46 am e

   Once again, it’s one of those times that I don’t know what to say, except that I’m still praying for you!

9. Sandy Says:
   October 1st, 2007 at 11:02 am e

   Prayers continue from here. I pray today is a better day and that the light clicks with her doctors about what to do next.

   And, I hope they can find some alternative site from which to administer IVs if Katy still needs them. I know a little boy who had an IV in the top of his head when the veins in his arms gave way! A weird thought but it did the trick for that little guy anyway.

10. Lillian Oliveira Says:
    October 1st, 2007 at 11:37 am e

    Dearest Katy, Dawn and all, I know you’ve been inspired and encouraged by the comments above, as I have, too. Thank you, Julie, for posting for us as we anxiously waited. For Sandy, scalp vein IVs are common in very young children, but in adults the veins are not usually that visible through the skin, which is very tough on the head. I’ve broken surgical needles trying to sew head gashes up! There are other IV sites, but probably would need a surgical “cut-down”, and I think that is something Katy doesn’t tolerate??

    Surely God is going to show us His majesty and glory with a miraculous resolution to this crisis! Remember the man blind from birth who was immortalized in the Word because his affliction was for the glory of God to be displayed. May His Name now be blessed and praised, that “all the ends of the earth may reverence Him.” Love and prayers, Aunt Lil

11. Karen Tillman Says:
    October 1st, 2007 at 1:02 pm e

    Dear Dawn,

    How awful to hear that Katy’s veins have collapsed!!! I have had that happen in the past, and usually they put in a central line to help. I must have checked this right before you posted last night, and actually prayed for Katy as I felt something was awry. Isn’t it amazing how God gives us those feelings!!! Katy girl, you hang in there, and I will pray for your pain to ease, and that God will comfort you through this difficult period. We miss your comments on the list serv, and can hardly wait until you are well enough to post again. Take care and know that I am praying for God’s mercy and healing for your body right now!!!
    Love and many prayers and ((((((((((A GREAT BIG HUG!!)))))))))))))
    Karen Tillman

12. Patricia Hagsten Says:
    October 1st, 2007 at 3:36 pm e

    Wow! Would think a central IV line would work …. but trust that her doctors know much more than I do.

    Continuing to pray for His grace and peace AND wisdom and passion for those attending Katy!

    Hang in there!!! Blessings!!!

13. Martha Harrison Says:
    October 1st, 2007 at 3:56 pm e

    Dearest Katy,
    God hears our prayers. He is our GREAT PHYSICIAN, but His ways are not our ways.
    My prayer is that He will relieve you of your pain and give you a miracle. We all want to see your body healed! We love you so much, Katy!
    In His grace,
    Martha H.

14. Sara Says:
    October 1st, 2007 at 7:06 pm e

    I have no words to say either, but know that we are all praying for you and that we love you dearly.
    Sara

15. Jes Says:
    October 1st, 2007 at 8:06 pm e

    Hey Katy-
    Ok - I have to confess - I’m a bit angry this evening - at HPS in general!!! My best friend and I used to have a saying ’sin stinks’ and since we are living in this fallen world - I can say with certanty this evening that ‘HPS Stinks’. I’m working on my study for tomorrow morning and a lot of it talks about the Judgement Seat - when we will have to give an account of how we have lived our lives. As I was reflecting - it started this current thought….about life in Heaven - with Jesus where there will be - no more diseases, no more collapsed veins, no more hunger pains….it will be glorious. I feel like I know a lot of the people who post here regularly who have HPS and my heart is aching for them and for you tonight….

    I am praying that you have some relief this evening.
    Jess

16. Jen L. Says:
    October 2nd, 2007 at 12:43 pm e

    I agree with Jess…HPS STINKS!! I’m glad I got to spend a few minutes with you on Saturday. I wish I could take all the yuckiness away and get rid of the pain and suffering for you. Prayers going up for you.

    Hugs,
    Jen

Friday Night

Katy is not doing well and could really use prayer for the jump start of her adrenal system. She was not responding well enough to the Salumedrol and by this afternoon her prescription was changed to hydro-cortisone. She prays constantly, not just for her own relief but for others. She waits for the relief that will come in time. We continue to pray for her doctors as well. They need special wisdom when drugs they’ve always used before don’t work the same on Katy.

Qavah had her transfusion and finished at RMH by 3 o’clock. She did very well and is much more lively tonight. In addition to Miss Jill spinning her magic, Qavah had a miniature DVD player waiting for her on her bed and she watched Shreck for most of the transfusion time. When the nurse came in she didn’t even look away from the movie but held her arm out for her blood pressure to be taken every fifteen minutes. She knows just what to do and is in step with the routine. The girls were just one floor apart with a stairway between their rooms. While Qavah cuddled up with a DVD and her blanket I was able to run up the stairs to Katy and help her wash and brush her teeth. Paul Burton came over to the hospital to help and it all worked out just fine.

The time we have together at the hospital is good. Katy discovered the cafeteria has soft chewy bagels and sent me for “take-out.” Both Katy and Qavah had cream cheese bagels for lunch. Julie is over at the hospital right now. I’m so grateful for her help and nurturing spirit. And in other good news, the lice are disappearing. I think we are on the up side of that challenge. Colin and Paul Burton are here this evening to try to get the lawn mowed. I am thankful again for all the love and support we are given. When people say, “I don’t know how you manage,” I usually reply,”By God’s grace and help from others.” There is no way we could do this if it weren’t for the help of friends and family. We are especially grateful for all of you.

Comments:

1. Doris Harriff Says:
   September 28th, 2007 at 8:18 pm e

   Sometimes I am disinclined to post a comment, because I just don’t know what to say. My heart aches for Katy. I am praying for you all.

   Glad to hear you are on top of the lice problem, though!

   Love, Aunt Doris

2. Karen Tillman Says:
   September 28th, 2007 at 10:47 pm e

   Dawn,
   I think you gave the perfect answer, cause without God’s grace, i think we would all surely fall apart!!! Again, I am sry to hear about the change in medication, and as I was thinking back over my young medical history…I think it took a coule of years to get things right the first time. Unfortuntely though steroids often have played a big part in the recovery process. Tell Katy, any prayers she can throw my way right now are certainly more than appreciated, and I will continue to fervently pray for her as well. i am glad that things went well for Quavah, and thought it was sweet that she and Katy both had bagels with cream cheese. Believe it or not that is also a favorite of mine, especially if my tummy is upset. Although, I usually have to leave off the cream cheese. Bummer for sure!!! Anyway, as usual it is late, and I am awake, asking for God’s peace to let me fall asleep without having to resort to meds. I tend to get a little stubborn about that at times, but have grown use to the “bumps in the road” as you call them.
   Love and prayers for you and your family,
   Karen Tillman

3. Jennifer S. :-) Says:
   September 28th, 2007 at 11:28 pm e

   Katy,
   I know God is with you, even though this valley seems dark. I pray that you find His light of comfort in it.
   love and prayers,
   Jen

4. Jennifer Blugerman Says:
   September 29th, 2007 at 7:51 am e

   Our hearts ache for you! How we long to see your family living once again in calm waters. We pray that the shroud around Katy’s body would be lifted — that her doctors would be granted insight as to how to treat her. But until then, we are praying that God will grant you peace which is greater than knowledge.

   -Jennifer

5. Patricia Hagsten Says:
   September 29th, 2007 at 8:56 am e

   How wonderful that His grace and comfort are sufficient …. and what a testimony your lives are in being so willingly open to His will and grace!
   What a blessing that this first transfusion experience in VA went so well for Qavah! What a blessing for both her and you. And, yes, we’re certain many of Katy’s prayers helped bring to fruition Qavah’s peace and calm.
   Bombarded on many fronts, we continue to pray for God’s insight, peace and calm for each of you …… as well as for new sunrise rainbows and seredipities along the way!!

6. Lillian Oliveira Says:
   September 29th, 2007 at 3:41 pm e

   How good it is for Katy to have some friends who are veteran warriors of this condition, who also trust in the Lord to get them through. Katy, I’m praying that you will get home for Sunday - that the steroids will kick in.

   But I believe my most urgent prayer is for a doctor, better, a team of doctors who will get a passion for getting to the bottom of- the real solution for, some of the malignant mysteries of this condition. I know that, in science as well as in the spiritual realm, God rewards those who passionately, intensively seek to find out the truth. He has a blessing for that doctor who is willing to invest himself in this disease, for Katy’s sake and the many others. Where, oh, where is that doctor?! Lord, we’re asking for a COMPELLING desire to strike the right one, so You can bless your world through him.

   We love you Katy! Aunt Lil

7. Patricia Says:
   September 29th, 2007 at 9:59 pm e

   Did Qavah have to spend the night last night at the hospital following her transfusion, or was she able to come home with you later??? (sorry, but since you haven’t yet been able to share here protocol and needs on the blog, we’re a bit uncertain as to what to expect).
   When does Paul return from Houston??? …. none too soon for you, I’m certain.
   Hope Katy is much improved by tonight.
   We just pulled into the driveway here in Kansas City less than an hour ago after a grueling week and driving over 2,500 miles once again.
   Time for bed … then up at 5 a.m. to shampoo/shower and be IN the choir by 8 a.m.
   Lots of love!
   Patricia & Ib

8. Candice and Crystal Says:
   September 30th, 2007 at 12:04 am e

   Katy,

   I’m so sorry to hear that you are back in the hospital and going through another bump in the road. We hope and pray you will be back on the smooth road again real soon. Please know that we are praying for you, that the Lord will give you strength to get through this health challenge. Keep your eyes focused on HIM.

   Love In Christ,
   Candice and Crystal

9. Heather Kirkwood Says:
   September 30th, 2007 at 1:18 pm e

   Hey Katy,
   I’ve been peeking in several times over the weekend. Thought I’d post this time and let you know we’re still praying for you and hope you are doing better.

10. Sandy Says:
    September 30th, 2007 at 2:27 pm e

    You all continue to be in my thoughts and prayers. I keep checking back for an update!

11. Lillian Oliveira Says:
    September 30th, 2007 at 8:42 pm e

    Dear Katy, for you and Qavah: (I see I’m on my second post, too!) The poem/song belong is one my Daddy and perhaps your granddaddy sang to me when I was little. I saw a wonderful picture of an old-time choo-choo train at a restaurant Saturday that Christian friends own. It evoked the memory of this little poem, and I was SURE that it said something about at “mighty wooden trestle”… turns out I was wrong! I had to ask Aunt Doris for the right words and she sent them to me; seeing that there was no sign of a “mighty wooden trestle” I said I was NOT SATISFIED! and in fun commissioned her to write me a verse that had one! And She DId! Look at verse two! Isn’t that great! If your Dad, Paul, doesn’t know the tune, I’ve already told Granddaddy that I’d like to enlist him to sing it to you, so you can sing it for Qavah. It has a catchy rhythmic tune.

    Chooka of the Stack

    How I love to watch the local winding up around the hill
    In the sunlight of the morning when the autumn air is still
    And the smoke-like loosen tresses seem to float along her back
    With the chooka, chooka, chooka, chooka, chooka of the stack.

    Refrain:
    Winding up around the track
    With the chooka of the stack;
    With the chooka, chooka, chooka, chooka, chooka of the stack.

    When the train has reached the hilltop with the valley down below
    And it runs above the treetops where the shining waters flow,
    There’s a mighty wooden trestle and the train rides on its back
    With the chooka, chooka, chooka, chooka, chooka of the stack.

    Refrain:

    How I love to hear the music of the whistle and the bell
    And the drumming of the furnace more than any tongue can tell;
    And the mighty massive mogul always seems to call me back
    With the chooka, chooka, chooka, chooka, chooka of the stack

    As you can see, I’m looking forward to fun times ahead for you sisters, as I continue to pray. Much love, Aunt Lil