Katelyn
7 Years old
Diagnosis:
Katelyn was found to have acute lymphoblastic leukemia in 2008.
Katelyn’s Story:
A day after 4-year-old Katelyn participated in a Trike-A-Thon fundraiser for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, she woke with a fever and leg pain. Her mom took her to the doctor, who ordered blood work. “He was more thorough than I thought he needed to be at the time,” said Katelyn’s mother. “I thought Katelyn had a virus and that we’d get antibiotics and go home.” When the results came back, the doctor referred Katelyn to St. Jude for further testing.
At St. Jude:
At St. Jude, doctors determined that Katelyn suffered from acute lymphoblastic leukemia, the most common form of childhood cancer. “We were blindsided,” her mom said. “Looking back, that first week was just a blur.” Katelyn immediately started on a two-and-a-half year chemotherapy treatment plan.
Katelyn’s family is grateful for the donors who support St. Jude. Her mom said, “You shouldn’t ever, as a parent, be in that situation where you’re thinking should your money go to the mortgage or to your child’s treatment? I just can’t imagine that.”
Katelyn completed treatment in fall 2010 and continues to return to the hospital for regular checkups. She loves the hospital that saved her life. “She always looks forward to coming to St. Jude,” said her mom. “I’ve never known a place where everyone is so completely wonderful to kids.” Today, Katelyn is an active little girl who loves to play soccer with her older sister.
To help give hope to children such as Katelyn who are fighting life-threatening illnesses, please become a Partner In Hope.
