Everyday Angels would like to recap past features and update those of you who have prayed for and generously given in support of these strong families. In August 2016, we shared the story of Kyle Gebhardt, a fourth-grade student at Bascomb Elementary who had been diagnosed with nodular lymphocyte predominant hodgkin’s lymphoma (NLPHL), cancer of the lymph cells. Kyle has completed chemo treatments and returned to school. His hair has grown back and has had two haircuts. Kyle will continue his post-treatment regimen for the next two years until he can be considered cancer free. He is happy to be back in school with his friends and playing the sports he loves. Praises!
Our May feature, 44-year-old Ryan Bacon, had been diagnosed with a rare cancer of the bile duct. Bacon, a war veteran and former basketball coach, continues his treatment. “We were told last year that Ryan had a year to live and he has surpassed that year with progress, and we are thankful,” said Ryan’s wife Kim. “Ryan has lost 70 pounds and has some setbacks due to the aggressive treatments but the tumor in his liver has shrunk, so we consider that progress and positive news.” We continue to say prayers for Ryan and his doctors to defy the odds and rely upon our Great Physician for his complete healing.
Matthew Lane returned to Etowah High School on a part- time basis in March. In January, Matthew underwent 18 hours of surgery to remove cancer from his jaw, which was replaced with bone from his tibia. Thanks to our compassionate community, Everyday Angels was able to assist Matthew’s mom with their mortgage and bills while she was out of work caring for him. We are in the process of purchasing the recommended alkaline water system for him, thanks to the assistance of Tony Perry and Patti Bachtel. Matthew has also been chosen by Sunshine on a Ranney Day to receive a room makeover.
Katelyn Fige was 11 entering sixth grade at Woodstock Middle School when we featured her story. She was diagnosed with stage 4 pineoblastoma, and underwent a 13-hour surgery removing 95 percent of the pear-size tumor deep inside her brain. After a long two-year journey, Katelyn is a survivor and continues to work hard to overcome the brutal effects of her aggressive treatment and surgeries. She is unable to walk and is considered legally blind today but continues to work hard through occupational, physical, speech and feeding therapies. Her parents continue their search for a ranch home that would be better suited for Katelyn’s care. “Progress often comes with setbacks and she has had her fair share. Katelyn is our hero and we are grateful she is here!” said Elizabeth, Katelyn’s mom.
Everyday Angels would like to thank these families for bravely taking us along with them on this difficult journey and for bringing light to cancer awareness.
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