Katy Reel

Final Entry

2006-01-15T23:38:00.000-07:00

Dearest Friends,

What a privilege it has been to have found such unity with you in our love and support for Katy, her family and her other loved ones. We have found encouragement and faith in this blog, we have found a common heartedness that we all needed so much. God Bless you, as you continue to seek the face of Jesus in the midst of your ongoing grief. May He comfort you and meet you in this suffering. His love is near, for blessed are you who mourn, for you shall be comforted.

Here is Katy's tribute. I wanted to post it as the last blog. It could be that you have been resting in your heart those memories about Katy that came to you at her funeral. If you would like, we would love to hear from you, still. Take this last chance as we are closing the blog to record your precious thoughts.

Well, dear friends. God Bless you. Kit

Katy Lee Reel

I have been describing Katy in a lot of detail lately, since we set up her blog and as I asked scores of people to pray for her. Sometimes I would be a little apologetic, saying I know that I sound like I am exaggerating, but usually I would say something like … but she really is that PURE. The purity was just the crystal clear way in which Katy lived.

Her purity was seen in the way she trusted God, believing He was good, all the time and faithful. We saw this so much these past eight months. Katy never argued with God. His way was good. She loved him that much to trust in His good love for her. Her ability to trust also showed in the way she trusted others.

She loved with purity. Through and through Katy was about LOVE. She loved everyone around her with such a nurturing love that made it so natural for her to give to them, to serve them. You could with conviction say that Katy was never loving to be obedient or loving to be noticed, she just loved. And because she knew so well how to love, she was so able to receive love from others.

And Katy received her calling with purity. It was in her spiritual DNA to know this calling, to go to where God was leading. Katy was called to serve Jesus among the poor, and to serve Him by caring for children. Methodically, she stepped toward that calling her entire life.

The gift to everyone who loved her, knew her, encountered her, lived with her was to rub against this purity of trust, love and life conviction. She created an environment much like the shepherd does who takes his sheep to a meadow to feed them and care for them. Katy was that nurture environment, that meadow.

Katy Lee Reel

Katy (from Katherine) it means purity
Lee (her middle name) means meadow

Katy was born in Indianapolis on April 6, 1979 and died in Phoenix, January 2, 2006. She was 26.

Katy was raised by Rick and Patty Reel, in a loving, believing home alongside her brother Lenny and sister Amy. She was the apple of their eyes, and as you know, the apple doesn’t fall too far from the tree.

The Katy we knew and loved showed up early.

When Patty was pregnant with Amy and Katy was just 3 ½ her tired and swollen mom was resting on the couch. Katy walked by with bucket and soapy water, sponge in hand … “preg-a-nant ladies should not wash floors,” she said and proceeded to scrub the bathroom floor. When Amy was just 1 ½ she had surgery on her foot, with a cast all the way to her hip. Katy carried her everywhere, even though the cast was so heavy. And when the cast came off she still carried Amy everywhere; Patty wondered if Amy would ever learn to walk.

A few years later when Katy was about 10, the neighbor across the street built a very elaborate tree house that went from one tree to another, without cutting any branches. Katy helped him build it, knowing the tools and the techniques involved. One day his son slipped through the slats on the bridge and dangled from his head. When Katy heard the calamity, she calmly took the drill, set it so it would unwind the screws, loosened the slats and got the boy out.

When Katy was 11, her dad included her in his morning running. He was preparing for the marathon with 25,000 other runners. Everyday Katy ran with her dad. She used the time wisely. “Dad”, she would begin, “the gifts you’re giving to mom don’t work. No more athletic equipment. What she wants for her anniversary is … “ and so on every day, daughterly advice for the father. Well, the event came. The plan was for her to run just the first mile. Rick was instructed to hold Katy’s hand the whole time, Patty was so worried she would get lost in the huge crowd. And he did hold her hand, Katy went past the mile mark, and kept on running, running the entire half marathon, 13 miles. Boy, she was one to run a good race, wasn’t she? And she ran it again the next year, but this time stopped to get something to eat midway, so their finishing time wasn’t as good.

Katy heard a clear presentation of the gospel in the 3rd grade, in Sunday School, at Tabernacle Presbyterian Church (TAB), her church all her life, until she came here. She wanted this Jesus, Savior, Lord in her life, her sins forgiven, her life His. Her teacher prayed with her.

Dan Rexroth was Katy’s youth group leader. There were just three in her class that year, Justin, Kevin and Katy.

The mission trips Katy took with her youth group ignited her passion for Kingdom living and kingdom calling. She went to Jamaica at 14 and worked in an orphanage. This is where she first experienced the Lord’s calling – it was in Jamaica that she felt He had a special path for her, and that in part, it would have something to do with dispossessed children from a culture other than her own. For many years, after this, Katy would seek the Lord for the rest of God’s call for her and the follow up to what this all meant.

Katy was a kind of big sister to a lot of people in the youth group. Nurture was her game and she was on it. The group took another missions trip, this time to Bolivia. One of the projects in the camp was to paint the cabin, up on the second floor. It was a rickety cabin and the ladder was even ricketier and no one wanted to get up on the home made ladder. As they all stood stumped about what to do next, Katy climbed the ladder. She was very willing to do that. But not because she was the kind of person who did the right thing and wanted everyone to notice. She just liked doing the right thing because she CARED. She wasn’t trying to care, she just cared, and it wasn’t an effort with her.

Katy was instinctive with the Bolivian orphaned kids. They may have had diseases or were really dirty or really hungry, but Katy held them, rocked them, let them cling to her. And yet, looking back, it wasn’t what she did that stands out, but the attitude she did it with, the genuineness, the loving spirit that was her.

Katy picked a college 2000 miles away from home. Biola. She picked it because of this “something” this awareness that she was supposed to serve Jesus somewhere. Biola had a historical mission’s department; she would go there for that. Rick and Patty gave her such a freedom to follow this dream, letting their “joy” go so far from home; this was a purposeful release to let Katy become who it was clear she was becoming.

My dear friend, Hannah Miley who had been a missionary for 40 years was the speaker at that year’s missions event for TAB. She met Katy, the only youth at this all adult women’s conference. I remember her saying, “I met this most unusual young woman, who is so clearly focused for her age. She has a distinct calling on her life, she reminds me so much of Heather. She is going to this college in California, I think the name is Biola.” “Oh, Hannah”, I said, “Heather is going to Biola, I know I told you that.” Heather and Katy corresponded, they decided Hannah was right, they had much in common. And college began.

Katy and Heather joined three sets of other Hart Hall roommates and began a five year journey with the same friends. The nurturing and kindling of these relationships was something unmistakable. There was no picking and choosing, this friend is more like me, that friend is into the things I like. They picked their dorm friends from across the hall and next door and those friends were their investment, their partners in life. And Katy and Heather grew more alike as the years went on. The mission, whatever it was, was theirs together.

The first summer after their first year, Katy came home with Heather to do a summer internship with Neighborhood Ministries. She had been planning on it all year, already. Her debrief at the end of that summer was, “I’ll be back”, she just didn’t know when.

Before school started, she went to TAB to report about her summer in Phoenix, her work with the children, how she was getting a greater glimpse of the passion residing in her. The guest preacher that day overheard her report. He was an urban missionary from New York. As he spoke that morning, God gave him a word for Katy. He told her she was being called to urban work in the U.S. Until now, Katy thought she was heading oversees. But that word, combined with her summer, changed her course and became the next piece to the puzzle.

When Katy went back to Biola for her second year, she changed her major from Intercultural studies to elementary education.

Katy wrote in her journal that semester:

"At Singspiration tonight I was singing and all of the sudden this overwhelming sense of sadness came over me and I couldn't control my tears-I could barely breathe and as I was praying to God about how I could possibly love him as I should. These words I heard almost audibly "Love my children" I really began to cry & I felt overwhelmed and as the wind had gotten knocked out of me. I said, "Me Lord, how can I possibly do that?" He replied "In my strength" I still felt overwhelmed with a deep sadness. I realized that I was feeling my heart breaking for these children. I stumbled over to the prayer chapel and continued to sob. I read Matthew 18 where Jesus says that he doesn't wish that even one of the little one should perish. I said that I would do all that I could even give my life to obey this."

Katy’s heart continued to grow in obedience to her Lord:

"Dear Lord I just thank you for your comfort. I thank you that no matter where I am, I am always in your care and protection. I pray that you would be glorified in all of my words and actions. I give this semester to you. I pray that I would be a good steward of the time, gifts, and opportunities I have been given. I pray that you would help me to be diligent in my studies and help me to have a good attitude. I pray that you would soften my heart and open my eyes and ears to what you would have me learn this semester both in and out of the classroom. I pray that you would use me as you see fit in the lives of those around me. Please make me sensitive to the needs of others. Please show me what ministry you would have me involved in. I give this semester to you. Change me Lord, make me into the woman you would have me be. Amen"

Katy understood deep kingdom values at such a young age. She valued the things that Jesus places as most important. And so, her only fear was that she might veer from those, that the comforts, the predictable and easy things would rob her of and keep her from remaining inside the costliness of following Jesus.

"I am more and more attracted to the idea of teaching in the US at a public school for awhile, I don't know if that is because that is what I think would be comfortable now (that idea scares me), or if it is Satan trying to distract me or if that is God's will working in my heart. Who knows?!

I am scared of choosing for comforts sake...I never want to do that. I want to obey and I want to be stretched."

Katy finished college and took a job teaching right in Biola’s backyard, Whittier, at Ocean View Elementary. What did she love about Ocean View? Everything, the kids, her co-workers, the kids parents. Bloom where you’re planted. That was Katy. And yet, there was something missing about continuing to live in California and teach there. The pieces were still forming, the next chapter not written.

"Forgive me Lord Jesus, for how quickly I forget your faithfulness and resort to my own resources. How quickly I forget your many mercies and mighty acts. This continues to be the most painful time (season) of my life, and yet it is the time that I have been the most blessed, and felt your nearness.

There are so many changes going on and so many decisions to be made. Forgive me Lord for worrying about them, and for not having the faith to turn them over to you. In my weakness-Lord may be your strength. In my brokenness; your opportunity to work, in my confusion: your chance to bring clarity, in my pain: your way to heal. Lord I just give this semester to you. May you be glorified in all that I say and do. May your work be done in your strength through this vessel? I pray that you will use my brokenness to mold me into a more godly woman, and the person you desire me to be. I pray that my own notions of reality would not hinder your work and your will in my life. I pray that I realize that all I need is you- you are my hiding place and your name is a mighty tower that I can run to. I pray that I would know you as I never have before. Please give me wisdom in my decision- making, in my day-to-day life and in my relationships. Amen"

And then the time was right. We needed Katy here, and her experience as a public school teacher was the perfect match for the launching of our Headstart class. We asked her if she would become a two-year intern and be our N.M. staff for this classroom. We now know that God’s preparations in Katy’s life were for this.

"It has been about two weeks since I made a commitment to NM and I feel such a peace about it. Every time I am in Phoenix I feel a longing to stay. Ever since my first summer there I have felt God saying, "This is your future." I just have been unsure of the timing. My greatest fear in life is that I would get too comfortable with my life to do what God really has as his "best" for me. At this time in my life I feel myself at a crossroads.

I can either continue with the life I have and all that implies or I could step out in faith and do what I have always felt God call in me to do. I have noticed that in my life my biggest challenge in decision-making has not been choosing between good and bad, but choosing between the easy, comfortable way, and the more difficult stretching way. ......I want to grow. I want to be stretched. I want to be used. I want to be a part of what God is doing. As much as the change scares me, I can take confidence in the fact that God has always been faithful, and has always provided above and beyond what I have needed. I feel this is God's will, and God's timing."

Of course, you know that Katy took on more than teaching in the Headstart classroom. She immediately moved into the neighborhood, and stepped into Mom’s Place and co-led that. Relationships, Katy’s strength, grew all around her. She was in homes everyday. She gently woke up moms and got the kids to school. She sat for hours every day on the Headstart van, managing the new days of living with our families. She helped create order in the classroom and helped create hope in hundreds of lives. Katy was thriving. It was like she had found it, the exact place and time she was created for. And her ability to love fell on everyone, and it nourished everyone. She was the pure meadow and we all needed it and loved it and celebrated it, though not really knowing we were. Because it all came with no fan fare, no splashy advertisement. Her obedience met our realities and we just took it all in stride.

As Katy lived among us, she found herself growing in solidarity with us. I think that’s why she liked this Nouwen quote, it resonated with what she was living …

Henri Nouwen

Those who offer us comfort and consolation by being and staying with us in moments of illness, mental anguish, or spiritual darkness often grow as close as those with whom we have biological ties. They show their solidarity with us by willingly entering the dark, uncharted spaces of our lives. For this reason, they are the ones who bring new hope and help us discover new directions.

She loved being stretched to love more. She gave me this quote from M.T.:

Mother Teresa

We must grow in love and to do this we must go on loving and giving and giving until it hurts – the way Jesus did. Do ordinary things with extraordinary love: little things like caring for the sick and the homeless, the lonely and the unwanted, washing and cleaning for them… You must give what will cost you something. This, then, is giving, not just what you can live without ,but something you don’t want to live without, something you really like. Then your gift becomes a sacrifice, which will have value before God. Any sacrifice is useful if it is done out of love.

Her service was bountiful, her gifts of love, endless. Her sacrifice normal. She wrote this in her journal, four months before she found she had a brain tumor

Nov. 14, 2004

When I look back on my life I want to be able to say that I lived if fully – not being inhibited by fears, insecurities, or apathy. I want to have learned to fully trust, love, and obey. To have learned to rely on a strength that is not my own, and trust a direction that I have not contrived. I want my life to have meant something. As I grow older it is my desire that my life become more simple, more honest, and less my own. I want to be able to say that I made hard choices, took the great risk, and chose the extraordinary over the comfortable. I want to have lived a life of passion – I hope I am still called a spit fire even when I am 80 and should be “slowing down” as culture suggests. I hope that I am always going to and living in scary places and being in community with people who know no other way to be than be themselves. I want to live a life of no regrets. I hope that I am more true to myself and given passion with each passing day.

To follow Jesus all the days of your life to scary places, to live in authentic community, to rely on strength that is not your own, to live in the passion of God and His kingdom, to live a life with no regrets, Katy did this.

You don’t form these convictions unless you have been hearing from Jesus for a really long time? “Yes, Lord”, Katy said as she would often hear him say:

(John 12:24) "Listen carefully: Unless a grain of wheat is buried in the ground, dead to the world, it is never any more than a grain of wheat. But if it is buried, it sprouts and reproduces itself many times over. (25) In the same way, anyone who holds on to life just as it is destroys that life. But if you let it go, reckless in your love, you'll have it forever, real and eternal.
(26) If anyone serves me, he must follow me; and where I am, there will my servant be also. If anyone serves me, the Father will honor him.

We have all had the privilege to be used by God to honor Katy for her service once she became sick. The blog is filled with her testimony and it has gone out throughout the world. If we knew everything that has been said about her, everything that has been testified about her, and the fruit it is all bearing, we would be overwhelmed with it. And yet, all we wanted to tell her was how we loved her and cherished her in our midst and suffered with her in this sickness. And true to her nature, she encouraged us, comforted us, instructed us.

Maybe you remember her blog entry on:

October 19, 2005

Last week I found myself back in the hallways of Good Samaritan Hospital visiting a friend who had just given birth to her fourth daughter. As I held her precious baby who was just hours old, I couldn’t help but remember how she visited me in the same hospital just six months earlier. In many ways it feels that this journey began a short time ago, but in many other ways it feels as though I have lived a lifetime since April. You have been on this journey with me.

From the beginning, my prayer and the prayer of many of you has been that God would meet me, meet us, in all of this. We know that he has answered our prayers in some mighty ways. He has carried me through surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, green skin, multiple allergic reactions, and now the latest MRI that shows “No new growth!” I believe that we have truly seen a miracle.

I am incredibly grateful, as I have already outlived my life expectancy. However, I feel as though my greatest challenge is ahead of me. How do I live my life knowing that my tumor could return at anytime and that I will spend the rest my life without all of the innocent assumptions that I once had about my future? I have been thinking about this question for days now and I have to return to what I know and have seen to be true: our God is faithful and loving. In the midst of the most difficult time of my life, He has made himself the most evident to me.

In response to the question of how to live my life now, the only answer that I know is to return to the people and places and activities that God has gifted to me. I go to Head Start and play with the kids and visit with the families that I have done so much life with. I take kids to the library to discover new books. I call friends and family to stay connected. I go to birthday parties and baby showers and eat pasole. I feed the ducks at the park, because that’s all four year old boys’ favorite part. I hang out with moms who are much younger than I am and they tease me about being so old and not having any kids. I make plans for the holidays, and plant fall flowers because it is finally cooling off. I take Moms and kids to doctors for appointments. I cry when I feel sad and I see many people with so much pain of their own. I sit on my friends’ front porch and talk about our dreams for the future. I go for walks in the evening. I look at pictures of my party the night before the surgery and I wonder if I will ever be able to take it all in.

It was during Katy’s birthday party that she realized God was answering one of her most recent prayer requests. She had just let all of us know at a retreat that her heart’s cry to the Lord was that all of her people, from both of her worlds would be together, if just for a short time, to meet each other and to see each other, and to see why she loved us all. Her sickness was doing just that, our two worlds were merging.

Maybe one of the best ways in which God was answering that prayer was by bringing Lenny to Katy, to serve her and love her daily. He first moved into Katy’s home during her first surgery. And except for a brief trip back to Indy to take care of Frenchy, Lenny was there for Katy for just about everything. He went to every doctor appointment, stayed for each test result, drove her around, hung out with her friends (which soon became his friends), fell in love with the kids Katy loved, and worked with her everyday in Headstart. We get a glimpse of how much Katy loved being taken care of by Lenny in a journal entry from 1999:

Memories of my brother:

Drying my hair for my high school graduation open house.
Holding my hand on the plane in Bolivia when I was sick.
Buying gloves for me in Copacabana.
Using a cold hair dryer to cool off my sunburn in Jamacia.

But of all I bet her best memory was Lenny with Katy, together, daily during this incredibly difficult past season.

And, we are so deeply sad. I believe, my husband Wayne received a good word for us.

“Our Katy” we all are asking “Why?”

It is no news to anyone who has lived more than a few years on this earth that those three letters comprise the most often asked question of humanity. All peoples throughout time have struggled with, “Why?” It is perhaps a question without an answer as each answer merely begs another question.

Why Katy? Katy was as sweet and charming as any picture of her we have can attest to. Her charm and grace was such a light to us that even when angry, an occasion that was rare, we still remember her as “grace- full” and not harsh or vindictive.

Her care for those around her, whether they were child, peer, or elder, was wonderful to see, and even more so to be the recipient of. She was, if anything, generous of herself to a fault and if she ever perturbed us or made us frustrated, it was usually by her patience and forbearance.

“Don’t you ever get angry?” or, “Why do you let them walk over you like that?” and sometimes some of us even asked, “Why do you let me walk over you like that?”

Maybe the simplest evidence of how sweet she was is that we all name her in this way, “Our Katy”, because she truly gave herself to us and in some way allowed each of us to own her. Katy did not merely give, time, or attention, or money, she gave us herself.

Now there is a question we can ask “Why?” to. Why did Katy do that? And it is a question I can answer. With as little “Piety” as I can conjure I want all of us to hear this as just a simple fact. “Katy Loved God.” She wasn’t in love with some idea of God. She didn’t love God because He “worked” and made her life better. Katy did not love God because He would keep her soul from hell and Katy didn’t love Jesus so she could get to heaven. She wanted to go to heaven because she loved Jesus. And just as Jesus asked, “How can you say you love God whom you have not seen when you don’t love man whom you have seen and who is created in the image of God.” we can answer our question of why Katy loved us, because she loved Jesus.

But there are many other “Why’s” we can seek answers for. Why should we have known Katy? Not everyone got to, you know; but we did. Why did God favor us so? There are places in this world that cry out for such a gift from God. Why should we be so favored and others not? If we ask why we must feel this tragic loss can we not also ask why we should have had such gain? Is not our loss proof of how favored we were? What purpose did God have in giving us “Our Katy”? Someone recently said this to me “Katy had no agenda except to be the woman God wanted her to be, and because of that she taught us so much just by being herself.”

There is no doubt, that our Katy, ran a good race and finished well. IN our hearts, we have imagined our Lord saying to her, 'Well done, good and faithful servant. You have been faithful over a little; I will set you over much. Enter into the joy of your master.'

I know I don’t have a clue what that means to enter in our Savior’s joy. But I want to. So our comfort is this. Our sweetest sister, daughter, friend knows the joy of her Lovely Lord. She is now forever in that joy.

Obituary

2006-01-06T09:19:00.000-07:00

Service times & locations

2006-01-03T16:16:00.000-07:00

PHOENIX

Friday, January 6, 2006
Visitation/Calling 4pm
Service 6pm
at The Neighborhood Center
1929 W Fillmore, Phx, AZ 85009

INDIANAPOLIS

Tuesday, January 10, 2006
Visitation/Calling 5-7pm
at Tabernacle Presbyterian Church
34th St & Central Ave, Indianapolis

Wednesday, January 11, 2006
Visitation/Calling 2pm
Funeral Service 3pm
at Tabernacle Presbyterian Church
followed by Burial at Crown Hill Cemetery

IN MEMORIUM

The family requests that any contributions in memory of Katy be designated to:
Neighborhood Ministries
PO Box 6057
Phoenix, AZ 85009

Our dear precious and faithful Katy

2006-01-02T11:27:00.000-07:00

Oh dear friends,

“Well done thou good and faithful servant” … For how she loved Him and now loves Him greater, for she sees Him face to face.

We imagined we heard Him say this to our precious Katy, last night as she slipped from us. Her brain had just taken too much, hemorrhaged and lost its battle early this morning. As we stood by her bed side it seemed to us like she was sleeping, with no pain, and yet for us there is great loss and pain. But soon and very soon, we will see her again.

This will not be the last blog for our dear, dear sister. We will try to give you all the details, dates and times, for the memorial service here in Phoenix and in Indianapolis. All of us want to thank you for your help for Katy and her family. Your love has been a sustaining comfort.

Matthew 25

"When the Son of Man comes in his glory, and all the angels with him, he will sit on his throne in heavenly glory. All the nations will be gathered before him, and he will separate the people one from another as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats. He will put the sheep on his right and the goats on his left.

"Then the King will say to those on his right, 'Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world. For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.'

"Then the righteous will answer him, 'Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?'

"The King will reply, 'I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.'

A difficult night

2006-01-01T09:30:00.000-07:00

It was a difficult night again, but for different reasons.

Katy was having trouble waking up in the night particularly around 3 and 4 am. It was hard to wake her up, to give her her pills. She moans and doesn’t really talk.

At 8 am Katy was still pretty unresponsive and had a fever of 102. Patty called Heather and they decided to call the ambulance and hurry her to the hospital.

She is being cared for right now.

Please pray, I’ll follow this up later in the day with a report.

ER Visit Report

2005-12-30T16:51:00.000-07:00

Thanks to all of you who checked in today. Your faithfulness to Katy’s needs is a great ministry to her and all of us.

It has been a long day, Katy just arriving home right now (5:00 pm Phoenix time).

They did an ultra-sound to check for blood clots and it was negative. They also checked her blood and it was fine. She has received stronger pain medication.

Tonight, she will take her second dose of Temedor and she will have three more doses the following three nights.

It could be that this terrible pain is caused by the chemo, possibly it is leg cramps. Though that is unlikely.

Pray that the Temedor can be tolerated with out this pain.

You are dear to all of us. Thank you for your love.

ER trip today

2005-12-30T11:08:00.000-07:00

Dear Praying Friends,

We are so grateful to be able to give you the minute by minute update through this blog, because we know that so many of you check it throughout the day.

Katy began the temedor last night. She began to have a very intense leg pain sometime last night, so bad that she needed to have some pain medication. Her chemotherapy is so important to stay with, therefore this leg pain needs to be diagnosed, to be eliminated.

This morning Katy is on her way to the ER for evaluation of the source of this leg pain. Will you please pray for the diagnosis and for treatment and for the pain.

We are so grateful for your intercession. Our hearts are bound together in seeking God for Katy.

In the Shelter of the Most High

2005-12-27T21:02:00.000-07:00

Those who live in the shelter of the Most High
will find rest in the shadow of the Almighty.

This I declare of the LORD:
He alone is my refuge, my place of safety;
he is my God,

and I am trusting him.

For he will rescue you from every trap
and protect you from the fatal plague.

He will shield you with his wings.
He will shelter you with his feathers.

His faithful promises
(I wonder which of these you have been gifted by God for Katy)
are your armor and protection.

Psalm 91:1-4

Well, dear friends,

Katy began chemo today, this treatment is placed in her implant. It didn’t hurt and the procedure is simple. She will have it again in two weeks, and will remain on a two week cycle. The other chemo treatment, the temedor, will also start, tomorrow, and she will have this everyday for five days, and repeat the treatment again next month.

PRAY
* For her physical and mental response to the chemo, as you know Katy is very sensitive to medications, for little to no reaction

She will have scans now every eight weeks, to see how things are going. The first couple of scans won’t show much, the doctors are saying, after that they will pick up any new tumor growth.

PRAY
* For no more tumor growth, for complete healing

The pathology is in, and there is no change, it is the same type of tumor, but has proven to be very aggressive.

PRAY with us that this tumor would respond to Jesus and to His demands.

Katy’s strength is improving little by little. She walked a little more today. Her nausea is better, she is eating more than she was, and has a bit of an appetite. Yet, she is tired and a little frustrated that she is tired all the time, not completely herself, lying too much on the couch.

PRAY
* that her strength would increase, that she would have a great appetite and regain some weight, and that physically she would be ready for the chemo onslaught.

Your love and encouraging words mean so much to each reader of the blog. Thank you for your commitment to persevere in prayer. Keep trusting Katy into the arms of her protector, in whom she has found shelter.

Katy at home

2005-12-20T23:08:00.000-07:00

Ecclesiastes 4:9-12

Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their toil. For if they fall, one will lift up the other; but woe to one who is alone and falls and does not have another to help. Again, if two lie together, they keep warm; but how can one keep warm alone? And though one might prevail against another, two will withstand one. A threefold cord is not quickly broken.
_________________________

Katy came home today, about 1:00, along with all her helpers, Patty, Rick, Lenny, Amy and Heather. How strange that all these terribly difficult procedures and some recuperation have all been in just one week. The challenge in this past week, is in understanding it, feeling it, living with it. These loved ones are very tired.

Katy is sleeping a little better right now than when she first came home. She is somewhat disoriented and there is still some spatial orientation confusion, which goes with her equilibrium trouble. She was very nauseated this morning, which was a little better yesterday.

Yet, she is very glad to be home in her own bed, even though her bed feels weird for some reason. She is still exhausted and it isn’t time for visitors yet. When she is feeling better, the visits will be the best thing for her. But right now she needs to make the transition. She is so happy to be back in her own home.

On Tuesday she’ll go to the neuro-oncologists office to have chemo through her reservoir at his office, which will then happen every two weeks. The temedor will be once a month also.

She’ll see the rehab doctor in about two or three weeks, to measure improvements and to do some work on areas that need a little adjustment. The rehab doctor will probably have her see an ophthalmologist. Her eyes haven’t settled down yet.

PRAY
Pray against this nausea, and for strength, that her eyes would settle down.

It is our earnest prayer that Katy will get stronger, and that this chemo won’t knock her out. She has a great deal of medicine sensitivity. She needs to regain her strength to battle on the next front.

There is not a final pathology report … we will let you know when it is in.

_________________________

If the LORD had not been my help,
My soul would soon have dwelt in the abode of silence.

Psalm 94:17

Recuperating

2005-12-14T19:27:00.000-07:00

Thank you dear friends for praying.

Yesterday the gamma knife radiation procedure went well. It was such a long day, so invasive and a long process. In addition, Katy was transported to the procedure in a wheel chair, when she has not been in a horizontal position for days. All that up and down, so suddenly was very difficult.

But, as you can imagine, whenever asked by a medical person if she would like this or that, she commonly responds, "whatever works for you". Since most patients don't respond like that, I'm sure they often ask themselves, "what would work for me"?

The CT scan still shows slight swelling of the ventricles, so they can't remove the drain yet, so that means that she is still in Intensive care -- a few more days there ... it looks like.

Today they implanted the ommaya reservior and that also went well. The doctors are still hopeful that no shunt will be needed.

Katy's eyes are improving though she keeps them shut most of the time. They seem to be not working together normally. We're not sure why. Her eyes and equilibrium seem to be connected to the naseau which is still a problem. It is expected that they should improve too.

Here are the prayer requests from the last two days:
* swelling in brain would resolve itself
* no more naseau
* get good rest and recovery
* her eyes and equilibrium would continue to improve

And we are thanking God for:
* kind and skilled nurses and doctors
* you our dear intercessors, faithfully taking all of these things to the throne of grace

Rehab will begin once Katy is in a regular room.

Some prayer requests for the family:
* health
* strength and endurance
* hope

May God strengthen you, to find his everpresent help in time of trouble. This trouble belongs to the Lord, let us earnestly seek His resource for all that Katy needs right now.

Katy's Treatment Plan

2005-12-12T19:11:00.000-07:00

Dearest Friends,

Patty just called with the update from Dr. Smith (Katy’s current neuro-surgeon) and the tumor board. She, Katy, Amy and Lenny were all present to hear the report with the treatment plan. Thank you for praying for these very expert physicians.

Treatment plan

Tomorrow is Radiation:

Gamma knife radiation (see below) is already scheduled for tomorrow on both tumors and the other site of one they resected
1. there is one tumor on the left occipital lobe
2. another one on the right frontal lobe
3. and the bed where the tumor was removed

But first:
They will do a CT scan to check for pressure on the 4th ventricle, if there is none, they will remove the drain tube so they can do the gamma knife procedure.
She will then be moved out of ICU tomorrow after the procedure.

Wednesday begins Chemotherapy:
They will implant an omya reservoir – and into this they will administer the chemotherapy (depo-ara-c) There will be a tube going into the cerebral spinal fluid which takes the chemo everywhere into the central nervous system.
In addition, she is going to take temedor (her old chemotherapy) every month for five days like before, but without the green stuff. Dr. Shapiro notes that the tumors grew after the temedor was done, so he thinks that it is an effective treatment for Katy.

The Pathology
The pathology reports say that the new tumors progressed further to malignant oligo astrocytoma. This tumor type also has tendrils which is very problematic. As you remember, these tendrils cause new tumors to grow. During the surgery he got out everything he could see, but knows there are things he can’t see.

How is Katy doing?
Her vision is better, they are controlling the pain well, and she is sleeping, her incision site is healing already.
She is very sleepy ... in fact ... here she is, our very own "sleeping beauty"!

Prayer
Gather together, come away alone, seek God in some quiet space ... make time to talk to God about Katy's healing. He is available and He is powerful. He alone can manage this terrible problem of her brain tumors. Those of you who are more experienced in healing prayer, you might be called on to lead others in this. Meanwhile, the Holy Spirit is our counselor and our teacher. Let Him guide you and us as we seek Him earnestly together for Katy's healing. For He is our refuge and strength, a very present help in time of trouble.

And ... No visitors please! This is a very different hospital experience than the last one. We love you and thank God for all you are doing in intercession and many gifts and kindnesses.

---------------------------------------------------------
---------------------------------------------------------

GAMMA KNIFE SURGERY

This information is courtesy of The Center for Image-Guided Neurosurgery, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Presbyterian Hospital.
Website: www.neurosurgery.pitt.edu.
Click on “Centers of Excellence” for phone and email contact information.

Gamma Knife surgery is recognized worldwide as the preferred treatment for brain tumors,arteriovenous malformations and brain dysfunctions like trigeminal neuralgia. It is supported by over 2,500 peer reviewed research article primarily published in neurosurgery journals. The Gamma Knife offers a non-invasive alternative for many patients for whom traditional brain surgery is not an option and removes the physical trauma and the majority of risks associated with conventional surgery. This effective single session treatment may require an overnight hospital stay but is often done in an outpatient surgical setting with periodic follow-up. It is proven safe over the long term and is recognized and covered by insurance plans.

The Gamma Knife allows noninvasive cerebral surgery to be performed in one session the same as neurosurgery with extreme precision, sparing tissues adjacent to the target. Based on preoperative radiological examinations, such as CT-scans, MR-scans, or angiography, the unit provides for highly accurate irradiation of deep-seated targets, using a multitude of collimated beams of ionizing radiation in scalpel like precision.

Gamma Knife surgery represents a major advance in brain surgery, changing the landscape within the field of neurosurgery in the last decade. Its development has enhanced neurosurgeical treatments offered to patients with brain tumors and vascular malformations by providing a safe, accurate and reliable treatment option. Gamma Knife enables patients to undergo a non-invasive form of brain surgery without surgical risks, subsequent rehabilitation or a long hospital stay.

Gamma Knife surgery is unique in that no surgical incision is made to expose the inside of the brain, thereby reducing the risk of surgical complications and eliminating the side effects and dangers of general anethesia. The “Blades” of the Gamma Knife are the beams of gamma radiation programmed to target the lesion at the point where they intersect. In a single treatment session, 201 beams of gamma radiation focus precisely on the lesion. Over time, most lesions slowly decrease in size and dissolve. The exposure is brief and only the tissue being treated receives a significant radiation dose, while the surrounding tissue remains unharmed.

With the Gamma Knife, a surgical incision is not required; the attendant risks of open neurosurgical procedures (hemorrhage, infection, CSF leakage, etc.) are therefore avoided.

Published reports indicate that the Gamma Knife may be used as an alternative to standard neurosurgical operations or as an adjunctive therapy in the treatment of residual or recurrent lesions left unresected by conventional surgery. Radiosurgery can be especially useful for those patients who are not suitable for standard surgical techniques due to illness or advanced age. In many neurosurgical cases, the Gamma Knife is the only feasible treatment.

Conditions for which application of the Gamma Knife is considered most effective are:
1. Intracranial tumors such as:
acoustic neuromas, pituitary adenomas, pinealomas, craniopharynigiomas, meningiomas, chordomas, chondrosarcomas, metastases and glial tumors.
2. Vascular malformations including arteriovenous malformations.

In addition to the above mentioned indications, clinical experiences exists in the treatment of functional disorders such as trigeminal neuralgia, intractable pain, Parkinson’s desease, essential tremors and epilepsy. More recently positive results have been seen in the treatment of psychoneuro dysfunctions such as obsessive complusive disorders.

The Gamma Knife technology can be used to treat those who do not require immediate surgical relief of disabling symptoms and whose tumors are in general 3.5 cm or less. When Gamma Knife can not be utilized or is not available to the patient, radiosurgery with linear accelerator technology can usually be utilized. For more information on linear accelerator treatment and technology: Linear Accelerator

ADVANTAGES OF GAMMA KNIFE

* Gamma Knife is a neuro-surgical tool designed exclusively for the treatment of brain disorders.
* The lesion being treated receives a high dose of radiation with minimum risk to nearby tissue and structures.
* The cost of Gamma Knife procedure is often 25 to 30 percent less than traditional neurosurgery.
* Patients experience little discomfort.
* The absence of an incision elimates the risk of hemorrhage and infection.
* Hospitalization is short, typically an overnight stay or an outpatient surgical procedure. Patients can immediately resume their previous activities.
* Gamma Knife technology allows treatment of inoperable lesions. The procedure offers hope to patients who were formerly considered untreatable or at very high-risk for open-skull surgery.

December 9, 2005

2005-12-09T22:35:00.000-07:00

Lamentations 3:22-24
It is of the LORD's mercies that we are not consumed,
because his compassions fail not.
They are new every morning:
great is thy faithfulness.
The LORD is my portion, saith my soul; therefore will I hope in him.

Today's update ....

First, your praying is felt here, as hearts are finding strength somehow, in the midst of it all. Katy made it through the surgery, and the surgeon said he was very pleased with Katy's rapid recovery and how well it went.

There was some removal of the designated tumor.

Monday is an important day for prayer as the tumor board will meet to take a look at the existing tumors and decide the course of action. Please pray for supernatural intervention for these specialists.

The current tumors appear to be very aggressive, however, the most recent pathology is not in yet.

Thank you for being led by the Spirit of God in your praying as you intercede for Katy. Call out to our mighty God whose lovingkindnesses never cease and whose compassions never fail. And expect them to be new this morning, and agree with all of us here, how great is His faithfulness. (Oh Lord, we do expect this for Katy, her family and all of us, her loved ones.)

Katy Update

2005-12-08T16:15:00.000-07:00

Hello Dear Praying Friends,

I wanted to hurry to the blog, to give you the best update we have to date regarding Katy's current and unexpected medical situation. It allows us to pray together and to be of one mind, for and with her.

At this very minute, Katy is sitting in the waiting room of the emergency portion of St. Joseph's hospital where Barrow Neurological Center is located. Her treatment and care will be provided here at this renowned hospital. She will be moved as quickly as possible to an intensive care room.

Currently there are three areas of Katy's brain where the cancer has returned. One of the areas is causing a build up of pressure in the brain. This increased pressure is causing Katy's symptoms of dizziness, problems with balance, and nausea and vomiting.

She is going to be admitted today (December 8th) into the hospital and will have surgery tomorrow (December 9th) morning @ 9:30 to have a procedure to decrease the pressure and help her symptoms. The surgery will also be to remove parts of the cancer. She may also get chemotherapy to treat the other parts.

Although all brain surgery has risks, it is necessary surgery. Afterwards Katy may have some problems with her speech and her balance.

So, dear friends, I know this news is so difficult for you to bear, as you love our dear Katy so much. But it is of great comfort to her that you are praying and seeking God on her behalf. Know that she is surrounded by the love of God, this is evident.

Pray for Rick and Patty Reel as they are coming from Indianapolis in a blinding snowstorm. As of this writing, their flight crew wasn't even at the airport yet, stuck somewhere because of the storm.

Amy has also gotten a flight out. Pray for her safe arrival.

Lenny remains here, so faithful to take care of Katy through all of this. It is off of his notes that this email blog comes to you.

We stand with Katy, in Jesus. In confidence that His love not only binds us together but gives us access to the throne of grace that we might boldly come. For he says I will never leave you nor forsake you so that we might boldy say, "The Lord is my helper."
Please pray for Katy's healing.

Loving you, Kit

John 16:33
I've told you all this so that trusting me, you will be unshakable and assured, deeply at peace. In this godless world you will continue to experience difficulties. But take heart! I've conquered the world."

Katy Reel update

2005-12-08T12:42:00.000-07:00

Dear friends,
I just got off the phone with Katy regarding her new MRI report. The news is not good. Katy has two new tumors in the back area of her brain. She is being admitted to St. Joseph’s this afternoon (no room # yet) and will have surgery tomorrow (no time yet). Please pray. She is scared and sad. I will keep you posted as I know anything. The one thing I know above all else is that God holds Katy in the palm of His hand…the safest and best place for her (and us) to be.
Susan Leon

Blog Update

2005-11-28T12:26:00.000-07:00

I hope that you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving holiday. I had a blessed day with my family, but also lost my grandfather that morning. As many of you may know, Frenchy has been battling cancer for over a year so in some ways we are thankful that his suffering is over. Your continued prayers for my family are greatly appreciated.

Love,
Katy

Leonard R. Reel, Jr. "Frenchy" Leonard R. Reel, Jr. "Frenchy" passed away Thursday, November 24, 2005. Frenchy was born August 6, 1922 in Paris, France to Leonard R. Reel, Sr. and Alice Clements Reel. Frenchy was Chairman of Reel Pie & Valve Co. where he was a lifetime employee. He would have been eligible to retire in 2016. Frenchy graduated from Shortridge High School in 1942 and was a member of the 1940 Shortridge High School football team that beat Tech High School 20-0. Members of that team gather every year to retell the story and celebrate that great victory. Frenchy was a member of the Pi Chapter (Indiana University), Beta Theta Pi. He was president of the pledge class and vice president of the house. Frenchy landed in Normandy and fought in WWII as a member of the 2nd Division's 9th Infantry. He helped free the Fortress of Brest, which was the location of German submarines. He was decorated with the Bronze Star and 2nd Combat Infantry Medal. Frenchy was a member of Tabernacle Presbyterian Church. A member of The Indiana Manufacturers Assoc., Highland C.C., Five Seasons C.C., Athenauem, Indianapolis Racquet Club, and the 500 Festival Committee. He is survived by his wife of 59 years, Ann Heidenreich Reel; sons, Leonard R. Reel III (Patty), William J. Reel (Sally); daughter, Jody Reel Davis (Jim); grandsons, Leonard R. Reel IV, Tony Vance and Bo Reel; granddaughters, Katy Reel, Amy Reel, and Holly Vance; great-grandson, Jeremy Moorman; great-granddaughter, Kendall Moorman; brothers, John Reel and William Reel. He was preceded in death by his sister, Suzanne Iverson and Elizabeth Cooper. Funeral services will be held at Tabernacle Presbyterian Church, 418 E. 34th Street, Indianapolis on Wednesday, November 30, 2005 at 3:00 p.m. A "Celebration of Life Gathering" will be held at the Five Seasons C.C., 1300 E. 96th Street, beginning at 5:00 p.m. The family requests that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions should be made to the church or charity of our choice. Flanner & Buchanan Funeral Center - Broad Ripple is providing the arrangements. www.flanner-buchanan.com

The Indianapolis Star, November 27, 2005

11/16 Indiana visit

2005-11-03T15:00:00.000-07:00

Looking Back

2005-10-19T14:19:00.000-07:00

Last week I found myself back in the hallways of Good Samaritan Hospital visiting a friend who had just given birth to her fourth daughter. As I held her precious baby who was just hours old, I couldn’t help but remember how she visited me in the same hospital just six months earlier. In many ways it feels that this journey began a short time ago, but in many other ways it feels as though I have lived a lifetime since April. You have been on this journey with me.

From the beginning, my prayer and the prayer of many of you has been that God would meet me, meet us, in all of this. We know that he has answered our prayers in some mighty ways. He has carried me through surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, green skin, multiple allergic reactions, and now the latest MRI that shows “No new growth!” I believe that we have truly seen a miracle.

I am incredibly grateful, as I have already outlived my life expectancy. However, I feel as though my greatest challenge is ahead of me. How do I live my life knowing that my tumor could return at anytime and that I will spend the rest my life without all of the innocent assumptions that I once had about my future? I have been thinking about this question for days now and I have to return to what I know and have seen to be true: our God is faithful and loving. In the midst of the most difficult time of my life, He has made himself the most evident to me.

In response to the question of how to live my life now, the only answer that I know is to return to the people and places and activities that God has gifted to me. I go to Head Start and play with the kids and visit with the families that I have done so much life with. I take kids to the library to discover new books. I call friends and family to stay connected. I go to birthday parties and baby showers and eat pasole. I feed the ducks at the park, because that all four year old boys’ favorite part. I hang out with moms who are much younger than I am and they tease me about being so old and not having any kids. I make plans for the holidays, and plant fall flowers because it is finally cooling off. I take Moms and kids to doctors for appointments. I cry when I feel sad and I see many people with so much pain of their own. I sit on my friends’ front porch and talk about our dreams for the future. I go for walks in the evening. I look at pictures of my party the night before the surgery and I wonder if I will ever be able to take it all in.

Thank you dear friends for your prayers and support they help sustain me. I would like to give you a quick medial update. A short time ago I began experiencing some symptoms that led to the date of my latest MRI being moved up. As you might imagine, the days before the scan were very difficult and took my mind back to a place that felt all too familiar. I was not sure how to share this with all of you, so I am sorry that this is the first that many of you are hearing of this. I am thankful that there was no new growth found on that scan, however I continue to experience dizziness that cannot be explained. I was in bed a few days last week due to nausea caused by this dizziness. Thankfully these last few days have been better. I would be very grateful for your prayers on this matter.

Love,
Katy

Katy & Sugey

September 8th

2005-09-08T15:28:00.000-07:00

Dear Ones,

I had an appointment with my NeuroOncologist today to review the results of Monday's MRI. Praise God that there has been no new growth! Based on this and the fact that there is no research that indicates chemotherapy is effective at treating an initial brain tumor of this type, I am going to follow the advise of my doctor and discontinue the chemotherapy treatment. The plan as it stands now is to have an MRI every two months unless something shows up or I begin having symptoms. If new growth is observed my doctor will take into consideration location, size, etc., to create a new plan. Until then, no more turning green or being a human pincushion.

For now things are beginning to feel strangely normal. My hair is growing back, I am enjoying being back at work full time with the kids and families that I love, my best friends Heather and Dallas have moved in across the street (along with several others), Dianne (my former roommate) along with Lenny (my brother) have moved into my house (making three pairs of siblings between the two houses), Amy (my sister) is back at school in Philadelphia, and my parents are just finishing week-long visit with me before heading back to Indy.

I praise God for all he has done and continues to teach me through this experience. The blessings continue to astound me. I thank you for your faithfulness in prayer and support of myself and my family.

Love,
Katy

update

2005-08-14T20:22:00.000-07:00

Dear Ones,

Just a short note to assure you about Katy. She took the Temodar (chemo in the form of pills) Wednesday , Thursday, Friday and Saturday without incident. No rashes. No swelling. No itching. Evidently Motexafin was the culprit. We do not know what the treatment plan will be for September; she has a MRI scheduled along with an exam by the NeuroOncologist right after Labor Day.

Since she didn't have to go the clinic for infusions Katy flew to San Diego on Friday to join Heather, Dallas, Kit, Wayne and many other friends for a weekend on the beach! Don't worry- there were 3 nurses in the group. Her fatigue seems to have lessened. Thank you, Lord for refreshing sunshine, ocean breezes and sandy beaches.

Love,
Patty and Rick

Green No More

2005-08-10T12:36:00.000-07:00

Dear Ones,

So much has happened recently that you should know. On July 18 Katy had her last treatment of the first round of chemo without incident, turning a pretty pale yellow. Then 4 days later she broke out with an itchy rash covering most of her body- an allergic reaction confirmed by the ER doctor, probably due to the anticonvulsant medication. So....now she's on anticonvulsant #4. We're thankful there seems to be many to choose from.

The next two weeks were filled with work-preparing for the new Head Start class, planning Mom's Place etc. Amy painted a wonderful mural on the wall of the HS classroom. The children came, precious 3 and 4 year olds, and Katy figured out how much time she could spend there. Lenny immersed himself in the children, stacking blocks, reading books, passing the corn at the lunch table.

The week before each chemo round Katy has blood work done twice. One day in the middle of that week she was very tired when she got up in the morning. She came home early and slept for 4 hours. Got up to eat, went to bed and slept for 11 more hours. The next morning she moved from her bed to the couch and went back to sleep. The following few days her fatigue wasn't as great, but she was still tired. The doctor says it's probably due to the new anticonvulsant. Hopefully her body will adjust soon. The good news is that her blood work "Looks great! Perfect!" And when the doctor examined her on Monday he pronounced Katy was "remarkably healthy." We have much to be thankful for and to celebrate.

Monday was time for her 2nd week of chemo. And time for her next rash along with swollen eyes. Tuesday the doctor decided it was too risky for Katy to continue in the study. She is obviously allergic to something she is taking and each reaction is more pronounced than the last. He gave her the day off treatment, hoping the rash will disappear and she can try the Temodar alone on Wednesday. Of course, she will take the anti-nausea pill before taking the chemo so if she has a reaction there will be several culprits to choose from, but if she gets a rash or any other allergic symptoms she will have to stop taking the Temodar. We'll have to see how she does the rest of the week before any more treatment plans are made. Her next MRI is scheduled for Sept.6.

Another change in the journey. It's too new to process yet, but in a way it's a relief. The Motexafin made her feel terrible Monday. So we continue, but not alone. We are so thankful for your prayers lifting Katy.

Praise be to the Lord, to God our Savior,
Who daily bears our burdens.
Psalm 68:19

I want you to know that Katy continues to feel peace. That's not to say that there have not been hard days, but she knows she is loved and trusts in God's goodness. Kit told me the other day that her prayer for Katy was that she know Jesus in the most intimate way. Amen.

We will try to let you know soon how the rest of this weeks goes. Thank you for walking along with us. It means more than we can say.

Love,
Patty and Rick

from Princess Fiona/Katy

2005-07-17T13:37:00.000-07:00

It is hard to know were to begin. There are so many potential punch lines when you find yourself green (which consequently makes blonde hair look pink). Several nicknames have already been suggested Princess Fiona, Emerald Princess, Jolly Green Giant, and many more. Needless to say, this week has been quite eventful. I began my IV and chemo treaments on Monday feeling well, but finished looking slightly yellow and feeling sick. Tuesday I felt much better, turned greener faster, and then got a rash which is probably a reaction to one of the many medicines I am on. Wednesday and Thursday I continued to have a rash so I earned Friday off from the IV and chemo and will return on Monday to do my last treatment for this round. Most of Thursday and Friday I spent resting due to my large consumption of Benedryl. I am feeling much better today and am almost back to my normal color, so hopefully I will be able to finish this round and determine what I am allergic to. Thanks for praying!

All my love,
Katy

Heather & Katy

Saturday night, from Katy

2005-07-10T07:33:00.000-07:00

Friday morning before heading off to the famous "Lake Day" with busloads of my favorite kids, I took the last available spot on the Temodar/Motexafin study. I was able to see the room where I will do my infusion five days out of every month, and met a woman just finishing her first week of the trial. Despite hearing that blistering on the fingers and knuckles is common with the Motexafin, the woman that I met was blister free. The nurse explained that wearing sunscreen on the hands and keeping them out of the sun at all times is showing some success with preventing this side effect. Each day that I have treatment I will take Zofran (to help with nausea), and will go to the hospital for my IV of Motexafin (which is dark green and may temporarily turn my skin and the whites of my eyes green. Eat your heart out Hulk!). Then later that same day I will take my Temozolomide and more Zofran. I will do that five days in a row and then have the rest of the month to recover. The study lasts for three months. If I like the Motexafin I can continue, and my doctor is going to decide whether I need 6 or 12 months of chemo once he sees how I am responding. I feel a great sense of peace about this decision. I am trusting God for this next phase of my treatment and what he has in store for me.

Huge answers to prayer:
1. I am completely off of steroids and headache free!
2. My Dad is back in Phoenix for a visit and Lenny will be here next week
3. I have been given the ok to drive

Love,
Katy

Friday, July 8th, Kids Club Lake Day @ Canyon Lake

Treatment Decision

2005-06-26T15:24:00.000-07:00

From: Kit Danley

Hi Dear Friends,

I have been so grateful for your ongoing commitment to reading this blog and praying for Katy. You are dear to us, and we are strengthened by your persevering with and for Katy during this difficult time.

The next two weeks are critical for prayer, which is why I am writing to you right now. Katy has two weeks to make a very important decision regarding her treatment.

Let’s remember what her oncologist and the tumor board have said so far:
· Her MRI looks nice and clean right now, no swelling
· Her blood work is good
· He wants the genetic markers … these tests have been done, but they seem to be lost in the transfer (PRAY THAT THEY ARE FOUND); they are going to be helpful in discerning treatment potential
· He didn’t know what exactly to recommend regarding the next step which is why he consulted the TUMOR BOARD
· The Tumor Board approved Katy’s enrollment in the Clinical Trial using Temador (a pill) and Motexafin Gadolimium (I.V. infusion), there were two slots left in this Phase I study and they are saving one of these for Katy. (The use of Temador alone for 1 year has been eliminated as an option)
the motexafin gadolinium is generally well tolerated (blistering around nail beds, it can discolor skin to green)
· Katy’s other option – is to do nothing. Her tumor will come back; this is the kind she has. When it does, she can choose treatment then. (Of course, God can completely heal Katy, which remains our prayer.)
· Her next appointment is July 7

Katy is in a prayerful situation. What should she do? Begin the trail with the chemo, not knowing completely how sick she could become and even if there are any positive outcomes. Remember, these rare tumors are just now being studied. Or, wait until there is tumor regrowth and begin treatments then.

Only God knows what to do in these matters. So we are committed to pray with Katy until she sees the doctor on July 7 to give him her answer. I am praying for direction, for peace, for wisdom, for clarity, for HEALING. Will you pray with Katy, her family and her loved ones for these next two weeks, that we might see God guiding Katy into this next major decision. Loving you, Kit

Praying Psalm 34:

Join me in spreading the news;
together let's get the word out.
GOD met me more than halfway,
he freed me from my anxious fears.
Never hide your feelings from him.
When I was desperate, I called out
Open your mouth and taste,
open your eyes and see—
how good GOD is.
Blessed are you who run to him.

Tuesday night

2005-06-22T08:09:00.000-07:00

Tuesday, June 21, 2005 11:56 PM
Blog update

A quick update:

Dr. Shapiro reported that the Tumor Board approved my enrollment in the Clinical Trial using Temador and Motexafin Gadolimium if I choose, if not they recommended that I have no further treatment at this time, but be closely monitored. That study is in Phase I, although Dr. Shapiro said that the dose has already been determined. Our next appointment with him is in 2 1/2 weeks. So essentially one of the options has been eliminated: Temador for a year (which is what he has been talking about for a month.)

Answers to prayer:

1. The tumor board information is another piece in the puzzle toward making the larger decision about treatment.
2. I am close to being off of the steroids
3. I have had several opportunities to be in the Head Start classroom this week and will get to see 9 of my favorite little ones graduate on Thursday
4. I am having a reaction to my medication, so tomorrow I will try a new one (but hey third time is the charm, right?) I am just thankful they have so many types for me to try.

Praise God for all of these blessings!
:)Katy

Thursday, June 16th, 8pm

2005-06-16T20:32:00.000-07:00

Dear Ones,

We're trying to digest all that happened today: two doctor appointments and the first MRI since finishing radiation. First we met with a new Internist who had been recommended as a very good Primary Care Physician. We were very impressed with her and relieved to have that piece of the puzzle in place.
Next came the MRI which was read by the Neuro Oncologist at our afternoon appointment. "That looks great- nice and clean, no swelling, nothing going on!"
"Why did you have so much trouble with (weaning off of) the Decadron?" At this point there is no answer to that question. Katy is again cutting down on the steroids and so far, no problems. Thank you, Lord for these wonderful steps.

At that point we were anticipating his schedule for the chemotherapy he had indicated Katy would be using for a year. It seems that things are not so clear as we had thought. He said that Katy has three choices: Temador (chemotherapy drug) now; do nothing until the tumor recurs, then treat; take part in a study using Temodar and Motexafin Gadolinium together. The doctor decided to consult the Tumor Board next Monday before recommending a treatment plan.
He wants to let Katy have 3 weeks off to recover, return to work and weigh her options. Anaplastic Oligodendrogliomas are rather rare; treatment options are few. It is known that that type of tumor responds to radiation; chemotherapy results are unsure.

What is sure is that God is sovereign and loving. We continue to marvel at His faithfulness and daily miracles.

Thank you for your prayers. Please pray for these things for Katy:

      1. wisdom in making medical decisions
      2. being able to get off steroids totally
      3. getting back to work successfully
      4. that there would be no other side effects from radiation

Please know we can feel your prayers and are grateful.

Love,
Rick, Patty, Lenny and Amy

Katy in Indiana

2005-06-12T23:04:00.000-07:00

From: jvdavis195
Sent: Sunday, June 12, 2005 5:56 PM
Subject: Katy Reel

Here is a picture to add to Katy's blog page. She was at her family reunion on the 11 of June. There were 80 family members who gather for the day to celebrate life, love and the blessings God has shared with them. The pictures shows Katy and her second cousins. It was a great day of love for Katy and her family.

Blog Update from Katy

2005-06-06T18:07:00.000-07:00

Your love O LORD, reaches to the heavens,
your faithfulness to the skies.
Your righteousness is like the mighty mountains,
your justice like the great deep.
O LORD, you preserve both man and beast.
How priceless is your unfailing love!
Both high and low among men find refuge
in the shadow of your wings.
They feast on the abundance of your house;
you gave them drink from your river of delights.
For with you is the fountain of life;
in your light we see light.
Psalm 36:5-9

Today I received my last radiation treatment! I am so thankful to complete this portion of my treatment feeling very well, having some of my hair, and they let me keep my mask:) I will find out how the remnant of the tumor has responded to this treatment when I have my MRI read on June 16. Thank you for taking this journey with me. Thank you for all of the many ways that you have loved my family and helped carry some of the burden at this time.

I will be in Indy for a short time to visit my Grandfather and attend my family reunion. When I return I will see my doctors and get the final word on the rest of my treatment.

Sunday, June 5th @ The Neighborhood Center

Thank you for praying

2005-05-29T09:03:00.000-07:00

Dear Friends,
Thank you for praying.

It looks like the headaches are a result of swelling, the brain's reaction to the radiation. Katy will be receiving a higher dose of the steroid that is helping with the swelling. So, Katy is not dealing with anything new.

We are so grateful for this news. Going back to the emergency room because of "headaches" certainly became too reminiscent of a few months ago. I am grateful we can send out these blogs when there are needs. Thanks for being there to pray.

Kit

Pray for Katy

2005-05-28T23:04:00.000-07:00

We thought we would send a blog out tonight. Some of you might still be awake or wake early to this … we are hopeful you will be joining us in prayer.

Right now (about 11:00 PM Phoenix time) Katy is back in the hospital. She went into the emergency room for incessant headaches that have been getting worse for about a week. So far tonight, she has had a CT scan and some blood work. At this writing they haven’t come back with the results yet.

In the morning I will send the report regarding this situation.

Pray for Katy. To find the source of these headaches. To heal her of whatever is the cause, and to give her and all her caretakers peace in all of this.

God Bless you for standing with Katy, daily, in prayer.

Love you, Kit

Update from Katy

2005-05-24T22:30:00.000-07:00

Dear Loved Ones,

I apologize that it has been so long since I have updated you on the happenings here in Phoenix. Our time apart has been quite eventful due to an allergic reaction to my medicine, the onset of the fatigue that I have been warned about, and the loss of hair in a patch on the back of my head the size of my hand. (Those of you that know me know that I had a few strands to spare, so I am able to cover up easily). If you ask me those seem like such small side effects for having had BRAIN SURGERY! Thank you for your prayers; they are carrying me through this. Each day is so precious to me.

I also had an appointment with my oncologist to discuss the timing and procedures surrounding my chemotherapy. He told me that I would have two weeks off between radiation and chemo to rest and take some tests. As some of you know my grandfather, Frenchy, has cancer as well. Unfortunately his prognosis is that he will only live for a few more months. I have been praying for an opportunity to visit him in Indianapolis, so I am thankful to be able to use this small break to see him. My Dad and Brother have gone back to Indiana to be with him. Please pray for my extended family as you pray for my immediate family during this difficult time.

All My Love,
Katy

Katy's journal blog

2005-05-05T22:59:00.000-07:00

Dear Loved Ones,

I wanted you to hear from me directly what this last week and a half has been like. As your prayers have asked, I have continued to see many miracles.

Every day my parents escort me to my radiation appointment at 8:30. I sign in and wait for the nurse to call my name. They know me. There are several of us in the waiting room. We all know each other at this point or feel like we do. We are all in various stages of treatment but we share the same appointment time and the same disease. There is a strange camaraderie among us. When they call my name I walk back to a room with a door worthy of being a vault in a different lifetime. I then lay on a narrow table in the middle of this room. It has a clear plastic piece that is rounded to comfortably hold my head and secure my mask. They rubber band my feet together, I suppose to keep me from escaping and then they attach my mask to the plastic piece. The placement of the mask is the most complicated part of the whole procedure. The nurse and the technician both lean over my head and move the mask this way and that until it is just right (I almost have to laugh as I watch through the tiny holes because often what does the trick is me wiggling my nose or some other such complicated motion). Once all is set they take refuge behind the door of the "vault" and leave me laying strapped to the table staring up at an illuminated coral reef photograph. For the first week they kept checking to make sure that I was OK, which made me wonder if I should be panicking but I decided against that because the whole procedure seemed more intriguing than frightening. The machine itself reminds me of those robots from the movie "Batteries Not Included" that went around fixing broken buildings and appliances. It seems to sneak up from the side and think carefully before it makes each move. It makes a loud hum, but it does not hurt as it moves around my head. Before I know it the whole thing is over and I am in the waiting room saying my good-byes.

I don't know what the rest of my treatment will be like, but right now I feel great. I have had a few headaches but they have been treatable with Tylenol.

I still have all of my hair! I sometimes have to remind myself that I just had brain surgery. Thank you for all of your prayers and support. May God continue to bless you as he is me thru this experience.

I love you, Katy

An Update from Patty, Rick, Lenny and Amy

2005-04-24T07:42:00.000-07:00

And ... A message from Katy's medical caretakers:

Katy needs to be protected from germs!
Please steer clear of her when you are sick
otherwise we could compromise her treatments.
Thanks

Dear Ones,

Katy's Treatment is to begin on Monday. Every Monday through Friday at 8:30 AM (her choice) for 6 weeks she will have radiation at Banner Good Samaritan Medical Center with Dr. Michael Sapozink. We're told each treatment will take only 15 minutes, most of which is preparation. Side effects vary with each patient. Some are temporary; some can be irreversible. We know that the Lord "created (Katy's) inmost being; he knit her together in her mother's womb. Her frame was not hidden from Him when she was made in the secret place." Psalm 139: 13, 15.

We also know His love for her is profound. We are praying that the radiation treatment is effective in curing Katy and causes no lasting harm; that she will be returned to complete health.

After radiation is finished Katy will begin chemotherapy. She will be under the care of Dr. William Shapiro, Chief of NeuroOncology at Barrow Neurological Institute, St. Joseph's Hospital and Medical Center here in Phoenix. His plan for Katy is to use Temador (a medication that is given orally) for a year- 5 days on, 23 days off. This is a newer medication than the "standard treatment of old fashioned drugs with very bad side effects".

So those are the medical plans for Katy. It's going to be a long road, but we are so grateful that we are not alone. There are so many things we want you to know. First-Katy is doing amazingly well recovering from surgery. I wish you could see her. She looks just like herself. Only when she lifts up her hair to show the incision site can you see anything different. She's feeling well; no more headaches! Every once in a while she'll take a short nap, but not every day. She goes for walks, laughs with her friends, greets her Head Start friends and their families with hugs and smiles.

You should have been here Friday. The Head Start class took a field trip to Teacher Katy's backyard! They have been learning about insects and here they came with little nets and tiny plastic containers with holes punched in the top picking up ladybugs that the teacher was shaking out of a plastic bag when they weren't looking. Katy was happily in the middle of them admiring every discovery.

But there's more. She's peaceful and even happy. Katy is thrilled to see friends and family from other pages of her life come here to love her in her Phoenix home. "It just keeps getting better and better." We suspect that her peace in the midst of such trying times helps to sustain us all.

That and your wonderful, faithful prayers. It seems that God has knit an army together to support Katy and us in prayer. Please know that we can sense your prayers. We are so grateful for them and ask that you would continue to remember us to the Father.

God is sustaining us.

The LORD is my light and my salvation-
whom shall I fear?
The LORD is the stronghold of my life-
of whom shall I be afraid?
Psalm 27:1

There's even more: family and old and new friends in Phoenix, in Indianapolis, in Sugarland, Texas, Los Angeles, South Korea, Los Vegas, everywhere, it seems have blessed us with precious support- meals, furniture, lodging, visits, transportation, massages, medical information, hugs... An amazing outpouring of love. Katy's roommates offered to move out of their home so that we could stay her with her! Friends even packed up our van and drove it here from Indianapolis! What can we say except, "Thank you, thank you".

This blog has been a lifeline connecting us to you and allowing us to witness some of the prayers being offered for Katy. When we couldn't do anything else, we would read your responses and were comforted. Thank you Kit, Chris, and each of you who respond and each of you who read about Katy and pray.

We are resting in God's sovereignty and grace. We are sustained by His love.

"Are not two sparrows sold for a penny?
Yet not one of them will fall to the ground
apart from the will of your Father.
And even the very hairs of your head are all numbered.
So don't be afraid;
you are worth more than many sparrows."
Matthew 10:29-31

There's so much more we want to share. As we are able to find the words, we will. Thank you for loving Katy and lifting her up. You are precious to us.

Love,
Rick, Patty, Lenny and Amy

Treatment Plan Unfolds

2005-04-18T22:57:00.000-07:00

Katy’s treatment plan began to unfold today. She has included the well known Barrow’s Neurological Institute physicians for their second opinions. Today she met with Dr. Shapiro, Chief of Neuro-oncology there. The neuropathologist reviewed her slides and agreed with the pathology report. Her tumor is indeed an Anaplastic Oligodendroglioma, stage 3.

As he reviewed the MRI with Katy, her family and Heather, he was amazed that she had been so healthy until just 2 weeks before her surgery. Her tumor was so large! And that it was already Anaplastic (fast growing) is significant. “How was it you were still walking?” was his observation.

Today’s consult focused in on the next step which is radiation. Barrows does IMRT radiation, a very specialized modulated technique that does radiation very tightly, making it accurate to within a few millimeters. She needs 6 weeks of this. Tomorrow the original radiology oncologist will be consulted to see if Good Samaritan provides the same technique and if they do, Katy will remain in their care and begin treatments right away. If not she will begin radiation at Barrows.

What follows radiation is the particular type of chemotherapy for this kind of tumor. The drug is "Temodar", the brand name for temozolomide. This drug has only been in use for three years. She will have 5 days of treatment per month for a year. The side effects are much less than the old fashioned standard treatment. Only 10% of the patients that take it are affected by changes in their blood count.

Today was a sobering day. The prognosis report was difficult to hear. The treatment reminds us that this is a really bad brain tumor.

So, we pray, don’t we? Because our God is mighty, and He is good! We are compelled throughout the length of this treatment to daily bring our dear sister before the throne of grace for healing. For …

God's love is meteoric,
his loyalty astronomic,
His purpose titanic,
his verdicts oceanic.

Yet in his largeness
nothing gets lost;
Not a man, not a mouse,
slips through the cracks.
How exquisite your love,
O God!

How eager we are to run
under your wings.

Psalm 36:5-7
(The Message)

The Gathering of Saints

2005-04-15T16:45:00.000-07:00

You and your prayers are part of the rescue operation--I don't want you in the dark about that either. I can see your faces even now, lifted in praise for God's deliverance of us, a rescue in which your prayers played such a crucial part.

2 Corinthians 1:11

Katy came into the offices of The Neighborhood Center yesterday for what she must have thought would be just a short visit. She had finished with some important chemotherapy appointments. She came through the downstairs into the area where The Lost Boys of the Sudan have their community center. They surprised her with their delight; they were seeing her for the first time since hearing of her brain tumor. Oh, she was greeted as if this sister belonged just to them, their sweet loved one who they have been crying out to the Lord for.

What is going on here is more than compassion and concern. It is the Spirit of God knitting hearts together across all sorts of boundaries for His purposes. He has a lot to teach us, together, through Katy and her sufferings. “Try to see it”, I could feel my heart grappling, “try to understand this.” We prayed together, this supernatural gathering of saints. These “lost boys” who have lived through barbarous human indecency now part of this “Katy” rescue operation.

I have spent the day thinking about who we are. The ones God has gathered to intercede for Katy and her healing. A supernatural gathering of saints.

Our family continues to pray for Katy. In fact, our daughter, Anya, has dedicated her dance this past weekend to honor Katy and pray for her healing. As with most Native American customs and traditions, there is a story behind each dance or song, an the jingle dress dance is said to have originated when an Ojibwe man, who had a very ill daughter, dreamt that if he made her a jingle dress and she danced in it, she would be healed. The legend goes that he did this and his daughter was healed as she danced in the dress he made her.

While our family knows that all healing comes from the Creator, our daughter realizes that while she is dancing it is good to lift those who are not well up in prayer and pray that the Creator heals those with infirmity. Anya will dance again this weekend and our family will continue to pray for Katy's healing and strength to endure the treatments that she will go through.

katy, espero que te recuperes muy pronto sentimos mucho que estas enferma y deseamos que pronto estes bien .Para que venga a la ga porque los ninos la estranan mucho !!!!!QUE sabemosque us!!!!!!
de Maria perez

Hello dear sisters and brothers in Christ,

i have got your prayer request for our sister Katy and i will pray for her with everyone in our church in Uzbekistan i know that our Lord Jesus Christ hears our prayer.

my name is Nona i am 34.iam a teacher .

Let Gog bless you .

My English is not good but i know for sure when we will be in the heaven with our Father we will use one language and i can see Katy tell her that i love her very much and thankfull for everything she is doing

Love Nona Petrosyan

Hey Katy-
As I read through each post here, I got all teary with each one, with the news that people from all over are praying. Just to let you know that all of us down at Monday Nights will be praying also for you tonight. That's over 350 kids!
Love you Katy, Sarah Leon

“The whole world seems to be praying right now”

Praying saints …

the Christian group on campus from Tucson, AZ, Women of Worth bible study group, Sandy and Gary from Bosnia, a brother from Scotland who is also a missionary, Grand Rapids, MI, Atlanta, GA, the small "Charlie Team" prayer group, Wash, DC, a host of people at St. Luke's UMC, someone rallied every Christian this side of the Mississippi in prayer for you, Texas, what feels like the whole city of Indianapolis, Indiana, someone’s church back home in the OC and college friends from APU …

Hi, do you remember me, Christopher Rodriguez? I was in your first grade class at Ocean View. I'm in 4th grade now at Ocean View in Mrs. Scott's class. I am so sorry you are sick and pray you get well soon. Think happy thoughts and know many of us are thinking about you. Christopher Rodriguez, Whittier, CA

The Bible study group at Christ's Church of the Valley (CCV), my church Trinity United Methodist of Palm Beach, Florida praying for you and I put a prayer request in at CBN, everyone from TAB, Faith Lutheran in Louisville, Kentucky, Houston, Times Square Church, N.Y., “we have passed this on to our friends here and elsewhere around the world”,Escondido, CA …

Prior to April 1st, I had not known anything about you. I've now read small scenes of your story and the impact you have had on what appears to be hundreds of children and families. I've seen a photo of you and am drawn to bring your face, stories, and your need before our Jehovah Rapha. I find I'm not sure what to say to Him. It seems so incomprehensible that one who is impacting the kingdom's most loved and treasured, one who is so young, so beautiful, so full of life and faith, would be called to suffer so much. But, that often seems to be the exactly the ones called to suffer to greatest. In brining your face and stories before God, I know our Intercessor speaks all that is necessary. My heart has been touched by the life you offer and I'm saddened by all that is known and unknown. I printed the email originally sent out by Kit which has a photo of you and have it on our refrigerator so that I'm reminded often to stop and bring you before God. May His peace truly surpass all understanding in the midst of what cannot be comprehended.
May God's hand guide every move the surgeon makes on Wednesday. May the day of your birth that will be celebrated tomorrow not only honor you, but cause many that may not be believers, to wonder and ask what has caused so many to come and celebrate you. For it is in celebrating you that God is celebrated. His Image is clearly upon your face.

… A fellow worker in inner city mission—(with a heart for injustice and the poor), “it has been such an encouragement to hear of your work”, Scott Reitano asking for prayer for you from all who are in his men's bible study, Bethany House (Gospel Rescue Mission in Tucson) …

More than mere human compassion, I think it must be our oneness in Jesus Christ that would reduce me to reading this blog through my tears, although I've never met Katy or any of the family. Yes, God is good, all the time, even when the news is bad or, as it seems to be in this case, mixed.
Lord, I know the unseen portions of Katy's tumor are not unseen to you. I know you have the power to shrink the tendrils, any part that was not removed. I believe you have good things to bring out of this, that will glorify you. And in the process, You are being glorified through all of Katy's family and friends who spread your love in that place. Thank you for taking care of Katy, at all levels.

… “I read about you on a prayer partner request”, Whitton Ave Bible Church Family, my whole church actually, two churches, "Richfield Community Church" Yorba Linda and Living Hope In Dana Point, Andres is praying in Ethiopia, our daughter, Melissa Shaw at Mentor Kids, sent us your prayer request and I am sharing it with some of my favorite prayer warriors and our church here in Marion, IL, Tulsa, Oklahoma, also our entire family prays for you each night …

Elliot broke the silence. "MOM! MOM!" "yeah, Elliot?" "Mom, you know our friend Katy, well her head it's gonna get aaaalll bedder. She got an ouie right now, but she gonna get aaaaall bedder. Jesus He just fixeses us and makes the ouie go away and no more bandaid on Katy's brain." That was Elliot, so matter-of-fact. Then rollin' in my Grand Marquis, the first song that blared out was 'My God is So Big. So strong and so mighty. There's nothing my God cannot do.'

…I heard about you through a gal I met from neighborhood ministries as I shared with her about the ministry I am involved in called YoungLives, Fullerton, Ca, Greenwood, IN, just about everyone at Oceanview Elementary, someone from Ethiopia working here with Samaritan's Purse, the entire Indiana Divison of The Salvation Army is praying for recovery, greetings from Georgia, many dear friends from Biola …

sometimes it's difficult, if not impossible, for us to comprehend the reasons that certain things happen. but despite the tragedy and shock of the news we've all been dealing with since Sunday, God has used this; your situation and you, Katy, are causing this immeasurable explosion of love and prayer, spreading at a furious rate throughout our community. it's insane. it's beautiful. God's will and His reasons may often be difficult to understand, but the results are always the same: Love.

if the spirit of love and prayer were physically visible, there would be a fantastic, radiant glow over Phoenix right now.

…deployed overseas with the AF and received word from my parents, San Diego, UNIQUE Learning Center, Washington, D.C.,ASU West, the staff at my school is praying, the members of First Presbyterian Church in Kokomo, IN, I have shared all of this with a good Christian friend in Seymour, IN, New Jersey, Victory Outreach has asked for a double-portion of God's healing virtue to be upon your life and heart, a little Bible study my friend leads at a senior living facility is praying for you and asked for a copy of the blog entries so they can feel more in touch to pray for you …

If anyone is interested in becoming part of a fasting prayer team for the duration of Katy's treatment, please let me know at laurelieone@hotmail.com. I'm looking for 30 people to join so that every day, someone is fasting over Katy and asking the Lord to move mightily that day. Even if you've never fasted before or find it odd, you're welcome to contact me for more information.

An amazing report!

2005-04-13T12:56:00.000-07:00

From: Kit Danley

Dear Loved Ones,

I’ve been hurrying all day to get this message out to you. So, finally I’m here with you on the computer.

Katy had her appointment this morning with the radiation oncologist. Do you remember her message from yesterday where she told us that her tumor pathology finally came in and it has a name; it is an Anaplastic Oligodendroglioma and we also heard yesterday that it was stage 3, instead of 4. Well today we heard what that means in terms of treatment.

This kind of tumor (versus the kind they thought she had) responds better to treatment. So far, amazing news! Also, the tendrils (those microscopic cells that go out from the original tumor that cause the tumor to regrow) of this kind of tumor don’t go out as far and therefore are easier to kill with the chemo and radiation. Really amazing news!

In fact, we cannot contain this news, for it is the first good news in these last many days. So this is the way the doctor is telling Katy about the hopefulness of her situation. This kind of tumor has a 60% chance of CURE! Wow … how do we embrace this news. First, with reality. Our dear sister still has lots of treatment ahead. Monday she begins radiation which goes Monday through Friday every day for six weeks. There is a chance she will also have chemo treatments alongside the radiation. She might be sick, lose her hair and battle with fatigue. But secondly, we …

Resonate with the Psalmist in Psalm 34:

Join me in spreading the news;
together let's get the word out.

GOD met me more than halfway,
he freed me from my anxious fears.

Never hide your feelings from him.

When I was desperate, I called out

Open your mouth and taste,
open your eyes and see—
how good GOD is.
Blessed are you who run to him.

Keep praying dear friends. Our Katy is not out of the woods, but today we heard good news! That is so amazing.

Tuesday, from Katy

2005-04-12T18:21:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone!

I just wanted to let you know the good news.

I received the final pathology report stating that I have an anaplastic oligodendroglioma in stage 3, instead of stage 4!

This type of tumor responds differently to treatment, which is a good thing.

Praise God!

A Note from Katy!

2005-04-11T12:30:00.000-07:00

Dear Friends and Family,

I will extol the Lord at all times;
his praise will always be on my lips.
My soul will boast in the LORD;
let the afflicted hear and rejoice.
Glorify the LORD with me;
let us exhault his name together.
I sought the LORD, and he answered me;
he delivered me from all my fears.
Psalm 34:1-4

I cannot even count the miracles I have seen in these amazing days! God has blessed me beyond anything that I could ever have imagined. It was just a few weeks ago at our board and staff retreat as we were casually talking about our biggest dreams in life, that I mentioned without hesitation my biggest wish would be to have all of my friends and family in one place, to have everyone that I loved to know each other. Miraculously in the last few days friends and family have flown in from all over the country and I have received countless phone calls, emails and blogs. The people that I love dearly are knowing and loving one another.

I received phenomenal care from everyone I encountered at Good Samaritan Hospital (it helps to have a nurse for a best friend). I will look back on my time in the hospital as knowing the presence of God in a more intimitate way than I ever have. He gave me such an incredible sense of peace.

I am so thankful to be in my own home in the care of my friends of my family.

Thank you so much for your thoughts, prayers, gifts, hugs, meals, phone calls, cards, balloons, flowers, and visits. This outpouring of love is incomprehensible. May you know this day how great your Father's love is for you. I will continue to thank God and pray that you know his goodness each day.

I will keep you posted as I begin chemo and radiation late this week or early next week.

All my love!
Katy

Thursday's report

2005-04-08T09:46:00.000-07:00

From: Kit Danley

I watched my daughter Heather take care of her sweetest friend Katy today. She hasn’t had much sleep in many days. We watch each other a lot right now, asking often, “how are you, today”. This was a hard day for that conversation. We watch Katy, listening to her face; listening to her movements, hearing her strength through this weakness. We listened that way again today.

Psalm 139:17-18
How precious are your thoughts about me, O God!
They are innumerable! I can't even count them;
they outnumber the grains of sand!
And when I wake up in the morning,
you are still with me!

Tomorrow Katy will be released from the hospital. Rick and Patty (Katy’s parents) called a family pow-wow today with Lenny and Amy to ask each other what’s next. “Where will Katy do her treatments?” “Should we all stay here with her in Phoenix or take her home to Indianapolis” was the main topic of conversation. Amy clinched it with her reply, “she is home”. So the decision was made. Today we began to think and pray about where they will live in Phoenix and how soon they can find a place. Our prayer list for this is easy: somewhere close enough to The Neighborhood Center and the hospital (which is not far from the center) and has some space for guests. We’re expecting the guests to keep coming! So a few folks are searching … hoping to find someplace soon. Meanwhile, tomorrow seems kind of far away. Each day defies time as we normally have known it.

Psalm 130:5, 6
I pray to GOD-my life a prayer—
and wait for what he'll say and do.
My life's on the line before God, my Lord,
waiting and watching till morning,
waiting and watching till morning.

tonights blog

2005-04-06T23:26:00.000-07:00

All the "blow-me-away" one-liners belong to Katy today! I'll try and help you picture it ... do your best, because it is a little unusual!

She is in her intensive care bed with a head wrap of about one layer of gauze. Not intimidating at all, considering today was BRAIN SURGERY. She is fully alert, arms and legs working well, especially the right side, maybe even a little stronger than before her dad said. And talking with so much energy that once we said she might be too loud for the other patients, in intensive care!

"Oh, these past few days have been the best days of my life"! What in the world ... You have to know that what she is talking about are the miracles. The miracles of the outpouring of love from everywhere. "I don't deserve all this", she says with a winsome smile. The miracles of people from her many stages and seasons of life coming, calling, sending messages (these blogs), visiting, traveling to Phoenix from here and there. The miracles of the message of her situation being told to strangers and those strangers sending her a message of their commitment to pray. The miracles of the changes that are happening in people because of her brain tumor. "It takes a brain tumor, sometimes", she will often be quoted from here on out. The miracles of prayer, already seeing the outcomes of today. The miracles unseen, for we know that there are all kinds of things that haven't been exposed yet. The miracles of the message that is going out from her life, to ... well, just about everywhere.

Today, I was at ASU West teaching a service learning class we are partnering with. Almost every student who walked in the class asked "how is Katy"? Billy went to a coffee shop today and the owner asked "how is Katy"? I stopped into our high school group tonight and Miguel had made a Katy video to use as a visual so the students could pray for her.

So, keep praying, and I will keep reporting on what God is doing by turning things upside down, which is His habit.

Surgery report

2005-04-06T14:05:00.000-07:00

Dear Friends,

What a long trip we have been on together. We are nearer to each other, aren’t we because of this sharing of our love for Katy?

The surgery was over about 11:30 ish a.m. today, April 6. The surgeon was able to get the entire tumor that was grossly evident. Which means he got as much as could be visibly seen. I know I was praying for that, that the surgeon would get the entire tumor out. Thank you, Lord.

But there is hard news. It is a very malignant tumor. It is called a high grade glioma. This kind of tumor sends tendrils into the brain, cell like structures that always cause the tumor to regrow. This kind of tumor cannot be cured. That is the medical way of describing the situation.

Katy will begin radiation and chemo treatments soon. She will have 3-4 days of recovery in the hospital and then can go home. She will probably not require a great deal of rehabilitation because the delicate parts of her brain were not at all invaded. But we still have to see about this.

In 4-6 weeks she will have her next MRI to see if there has been any new tumor growth.

There is not much more to report about the physical realities.

But there is something Katy wants you to know. When she saw her mom just a little bit ago, she said, “Mom, God is good!” Her mom nodded. And then she repeated this message. As I was hugging Patty and she told me this, it occurred to me that this probably wasn’t something she had had the time to meditate on, as she was just out of surgery. It was her first waking thought and the first thing she wanted her family to know. We had prayed for her to know the presence of Jesus, hadn’t we, this past week, in so many countless ways? We had affirmed to each other and back to Him that we were counting on His goodness and His kindness and His mercy. We asked Him to make Himself known to Katy clearly. Well, He did. She encountered Him in such a personal way, that that is what she wants to report to us. “Friends, God is good! He is good!”

I will continue to check back in with you today. I want to pray against those tendrils, what about you?

Tuesday's report

2005-04-05T23:39:00.000-07:00

I want to pray with all of you for a minute. I have been reading your messages as they come in, and gratefully am the person that prints them all out for the family each day. I am hearing us cry out to God for our dear friend and loved one, Katy.

“Lord, we want you to be known through the way in which you love. That’s what we have seen today, your love. Everywhere we have turned there are expressions of it, through people.“

“I have been so surprised by the capacity you have given Katy to not only give love but to receive it. You would think that people who are really good at loving others might not be used to being the one being loved. Well, today was a love fire-hose and Katy attempted to drink from it. And did a pretty good job.“

“Lord, when that Headstart mom came in today, to Katy’s room. It almost took my breath away. I know this mom. Her hard, rocky life has kept her from being able to take care of those You have placed in her hands. She is a broken lady, desperate, poor and most of the time emotionless. Yet, today, she stood outside that door, peered in past the layers of people who had come to visit, and stood shaking. Shaking not for the nervousness of the crowd but for sadness, for Katy. She shook because she hates that Katy has a tumor and somehow the terribleness of this injustice rose above all her own injustices and out of sheer love found a way to get to the hospital to say “the angels will be there protecting you”, in Spanish. And that was it. She shook and tears came out and she reached out and it felt like love, God’s love to anyone wanting to observe it. I know I didn’t miss it.

I sought the LORD, and He answered me,
And delivered me from all my fears.
They looked to Him and were radiant,
And their faces will never be ashamed.
This poor man cried, and the LORD heard him
And saved him out of all his troubles.
The angel of the LORD encamps around those who fear Him,
And rescues them.
Psalm 34:4-7

Katy’s face was radiant. She didn’t miss it; she didn’t miss the love God had sent in the form of this woman.“

“And then the party, Jesus! Wow, what a birthday! The flood gates opened and there it was this huge birthday party, outside in a lovely garden, which could have been, for one night, mistaken for a restaurant or resort which was crowded like a wedding reception or gala. We were a hundred people or so, all with our sticky white dots on our faces, to make Katy feel our solidarity with her “fiducials”, those small round electronic components that have been glued to her face, that somehow will tell the computer tomorrow how to locate the parts of the brain that matter. A friend arranged for a mariachi “trio” band to serenade us … and sodas and food and birthday cakes, baked by the kids at Kids Life and presents and more flowers and more balloons. So much love and she received it and looked into the face of everyone loving her and loved them back. It was her birthday party but it was also her “we love you” party because of tomorrow and the surgery. Lord, you were present in all of this exchange. It was obvious, she didn’t miss it!”

“Right in the middle of this beauty, you brought Amy to Katy all the way from Rome. Thank you for the speedy trip, the escort through customs by the chief of airport security in Newark that was only and just for her, and for her safe landing. Thank you for this family who finally get to be together in this!”

“Lord, rescue Katy tomorrow. For you O Lord are good. We know you are hearing us, hearing her. We know Lord you are near. This brain tumor is a terrible thing, please deliver Katy from it. Lord, redeem everything awful in this situation, we run to you for refuge.“

Psalm 59: 16-17
But as for me, I shall sing of Your strength;
Yes, I shall joyfully sing of Your loving-kindness in the morning,
For You have been my stronghold
And a refuge in the day of my distress.
O my strength, I will sing praises to You;
For God is my stronghold, the God who shows me loving-kindness.

Monday's report

2005-04-04T23:30:00.000-07:00

Today the radiation oncologist, the chemotherapy oncologist and one of Dr. Willis’ associates, and another neurosurgeon involved in Katy’s treatment came by for their consult. Without the internet to reference all the terms, all the new definitions, all the potential procedures … we are realizing that none of us, except for Heather have had any medical course work. In fact, yesterday I told you that Katy’s tumor was in the temporal lobe. It isn’t. It is in the parietal lobe.

Parietal Lobe is one of the four lobes of the cerebral hemisphere. It controls tactile sensation, response to internal stimuli, sensory comprehension, some language, reading, and some visual functions.

Katy’s mom took good notes today with all the visits, trying to capture what Katy will be facing on Wednesday and subsequent to the surgery. The tumor has infiltrated the brain; therefore it needs more treatment after the surgery (like chemo and radiation). It is near critical areas of the brain making the removal of the tumor very delicate.

Today though was also the first day where there seemed to be some space to think. We took advantage of this and asked our physician friends in Phoenix to discern with us if Katy was at the right hospital and in the right care. A friend who is head of ICU at Good Samaritan found out Katy was in his hospital and came in to both offer to care for Katy when she comes in ICU after surgery and affirm the giftedness of her neurosurgeon. Another friend knows the chief medical officer of this hospital. Our friend got him to come by for a visit, again to offer his support and affirm the neurosurgeon. The good reputation of Katy’s doctor has preceded him. Our medical friends have confirmed the peace everyone has had, these visits felt miraculous, like confirmations in the flesh. She is in the right place.

People are praying everywhere … one of Katy’s Headstart children prayed with a group last night … “Jesus, love me, love Katy, touch Katy’s head and make her better”. Pretty much sums it up!

Her room is filling up with balloons and flowers … and is always filled with people. We read the messages out loud from this blog today. The children from the ministry made cards to give to her tomorrow, hundreds of expressions of love. The cooking class made cakes for her birthday party tomorrow, her favorite kind.

And in a direct answer to prayer, Katy’s sister was able to make flight arrangements to leave Rome tomorrow, arriving tomorrow night in time for the birthday.

God’s handiwork was visible today … multiple gifts of love, expressions of the crying out of God’s people for healing and intervention, the anticipation of the family being all together, and the choosing of the medical people who are to care for Katy through this.

We are expecting a lot of people to come by the hospital for the birthday party out in the “healing garden”. Who wants to help with food?

Katy update -- April 3, 2005

2005-04-03T23:57:00.000-07:00

There is a white board in Katy’s hospital room on the wall across from her bed. The nurse on shift writes her name and underneath that is the goal for the day. We wrote that the goal for today was to meet with Katy’s neurosurgeon and hear the read from the MRI. As the day moved toward noon, the anticipation accelerated.

Dr. Willis finally arrived. He seems to be a good man, was gentle in his approach. He had some really hard things to say. Katy’s tumor is about six centimeters. It is sausage shaped and inside her temporal lobe. It is directly next to the parts of the brain that control her motor abilities for her right side and also her language use (hearing and understanding words and using them). The tumor is not on top of the brain but coming from it.

Determining the kind of tumor, what sort of treatment will be needed next after surgery (chemo or radiation) and any future prognosis can’t be determined until the biopsy and surgery take place.

That is scheduled for this Wednesday. This Wednesday! The plan is to freeze slice the tumor and biopsy it, and then remove as much of the tumor as possible.

We asked Dr. Willis as many questions as we could think of, which weren’t nearly as many as probably could be asked. It’s hard to think on your feet when faced with the shock of the reality, which is only really hours old. Katy is such a strong young woman. Her tears just streamed down her face, trying so hard to grasp what has been happening in these two rapid fire days.

We have heard of multiple spontaneous prayer times of groups coming together to pray for Katy, just today. We heard that there were about five different gatherings this evening. The one that gathered around Katy at the hospital was outside in the “healing garden”. There were about 25 that came over, having heard from someone that we wanted to pray together tonight. This prayer time was sweet. The kindnesses and desire to love Katy were profound. So far, the days have been like this. Gatherings of brothers and sisters from the ministry, friends and her family moving in and out of Katy’s room all day, leaning on each other. The hospital is being very good to us to let Katy’s room be so full of people most of the day and night.

Tuesday will be a celebration for Katy’s birthday, because Wednesday is her real birth day. We’ll meet back at the healing garden. Our prayer is that on her birthday where God gave her life the first time, this 26th birthday will be another significant life-giving day from God.

Thank you for praying, for interceding for her, for crying out to God for her healing. Pray with us that the tumor will be fully removed. That the surgeon would be supernaturally strengthened to do this job. That Katy would have peace.

Love you, Kit

Katy Reel

2005-04-03T00:53:00.000-07:00

Saturday, April 2, 2005

Our Dear Friends,

You and your prayers are part of the rescue operation--I don't want you in the dark about that either. I can see your faces even now, lifted in praise for God's deliverance of us, a rescue in which your prayers played such a crucial part.
2 Corinthians 1:11

THE TURNING POINTS OF LIFE
It’s late into the second night at Good Samaritan Hospital. I am tired but grateful to be alone with my thoughts for a few minutes. Capturing reflections has been difficult for all of us. Maybe it’s because there aren’t any yet as this news is just too new and difficult. Probably it is because mere humans can’t make themselves accept information that is so outlandish that we do better with denial. How can life turn on a dime, change irreversibly with no warning or heads up? Just last night, which feels like last month, we found out our dear Katy has a brain tumor.

THE GIFT OF YOUNG LEADERS
Katy is a young leader here in our ministry. I should have told you about her long ago. I hope you all get to meet her one day. We tell stories about the kids, youth and indigenous leaders that are treasured here. There are other stories … beautiful stories … about young adults who God has attached to this community through His gracious transformations. “They are too young” some will say “to have such an understanding of the sacrificial ways in which they are giving their lives away.” Katy is one of these.

KATY REEL
You should see her! She has found her heart’s home in the ghettos of Phoenix. Her arms are never empty and children wrap around her easily. When she started her two year internship, now almost two years ago, she was “teacher Katy”. She began her work helping Ericka build the foundations for a favored part of the ministry, our Headstart partnership with the City of Phoenix. These young women took the raw material of moms, kids, schedule less families and taught everyone to come to school everyday. It was hard work, knocking on doors, waking moms up, getting kids dressed. All of this was so shocking to our City of Phoenix partners. They couldn’t believe this was the way we were going to DO school. This is year two and these preschoolers are now testaments to the tenacity of these young women’s labors. Change is everywhere, emotionally, academically, in manners, in hope, in future possibilities.
Katy is more than teacher; she is a friend to her kid’s moms. She has entered into MOMS PLACE as a mentor and lover. If Katy isn’t with these kids she is with their moms, and these families are now devoted to their tender hearted and loyal advocate.
God brought Katy to us through a series of miraculous interventions. A dear friend met Katy in Indianapolis at a missions conference when she was just finishing high school. Her specialness stood out! My friend mentioned her to me. She thought her unique calling to serve reminded her of our daughter Heather. Both were providentially going to the same Christian college. These two were introduced through our friend, became roommates at college for five years and became best friends. Katy did her first internship with us after her first year in college. She remembers saying to herself that summer seven years ago, “I know one day I’ll be back.”

PRAY FOR KATY
Katy was having headaches. She has just taken on a new role in our ministry, taking on the coordination of all the education pieces of Neighborhood Ministries. The transition has been a little stressful. Headaches made sense in that context, but these were terrible the past few days, especially last Wednesday. Accompanying the headaches was a funny loss of strength and numbness in her right arm and one night also in her leg. She knew something was wrong.
Last night we went to the emergency room for the headaches. A CAT SCAN found a mass on her brain. They are calling it a tumor. Today there was a MRI. The results are unknown as of yet but will give guidance for the next decisions.

What else can we do than ask you to pray with us for Katy.
I have one request, dear friends: Pray for Katy. Pray strenuously with and for her --to God the Father, through the power of our Master Jesus, through the love of the Spirit— Romans 15:30
· Please Pray about this tumor, that it would be demolished, destroyed, completely removed
· Pray for Katy, that her journey through this terrible disturbance would be one where Jesus is alive in every dimension giving her peace
· Pray for all the medical personnel, particularly her neurosurgeons, that they would be beyond their best for her in giving care
· Pray for the work she has so much responsibility for

And would you pray for us
· For her family from Indianapolis who are here now in town (mom – Patti, dad – Rick, brother – Lenny and sister – Amy)
· For our fragile “family”, the body of Christ here at The Neighborhood Center and Neighborhood Ministries who love Katy dearly and carry this suffering in its fragility
· For rest, for love exchanged everywhere, for faith, for conviction that Jesus can be glorified in these troubles! Be lifted up, Jesus, in this!

I WILL SEND YOU “KATY” UPDATES OFTEN.
PLEASE PASS THEM ON TO OTHERS WHO YOU KNOW WILL PRAY FOR HER.

Will you let me know that you are praying so I can tell her?
And we love you and treasure your bearing us up. Kit

“The man who prays raises the question of what the limits of hope may be. Prayer is his way of declaring that the boundaries of life and the limits of hope cannot be drawn with the crayons of time and space. The man who prays pushes hope into areas where men who never dream, never venture. And so it is not difficult for him to believe. He believes his prayer reaches God and that it influences reality although never in a strict cause-effect relationship. Prayer is successful not in terms of what it logically produces or pragmatically achieves but in terms of what it forces reality to experience.
Dawn Without Darkness by Anthony Padovano