Katie Hawley Fund

Katie once again is in a battle against neuroblastoma!

For the sixth time she is bravely attacking this disease discovered in her lymph nodes, lodged between her back and chest. Surgery is not an option, so she will be admitted three to four times, for six days of chemo and anti-bodies! Praying these treatments will rid her body of the cancer and she will be able to return to Baylor in the spring! 

Thank you for your prayers and support!!

Love,
MK









Updating this sight with a heavy heart.

As many of you know about a month ago Katie relapsed for the fourth time. Our initial reaction was disbelief, anger and deep, deep sadness. The three previous times Katie had had symptoms and almost knew going into scans that her cancer had returned. This time however we were shocked, because she has felt great, has been exploding with energy and had absolutely no physical signs it was back.

Asking, or should I say begging Doctor Araz for a reprieve before beginning treatment was reluctantly given to our family. For the past few weeks, all of us, including Katie have buried the reality of her upcoming treatments. Last week we finally had to face the cancer head on. A centimeter size tumor was growing in her left lung.  Scheduling for surgery our 'time off' mentality came crashing down. Once they put my daughter under, they stuck a twelve inch tube INTO her lung, going through her rib cage, our doctor went in orthoscopically (sp/) to cut the tumor out, leaving three nickle size holes in the side of her chest.  Recovery was painful, but after 48 hours she was released.

Meeting with the oncologist this week a treatment plan has been put into place. I'm not thrilled with the 'study' Katie is on, the chemo is extremely toxic and the side effects are terrifying. However for almost a decade we have put our trust in CHLA and will continue to do so. Please pray as our girl starts tomorrow, she will have the strength to prevail. My heart goes out to her.

August 5th will be a DECADE since this child has endured, fought, battled and survived cancer. As you may understand these ten years of medical expenses, travel, me having to take off work has added up... we continue to pay down the past years a little at a time. We trust God will continue to provide and am grateful for you, who have stood by us time and time again ~~ supporting us with prayer and encouragement.

I will update on caringbridge next week..

LOVE you all so much,


For updates: https://www.caringbridge.org/visit/katiehawley/journal