To Katlyn’s many supporters: We are all still attempting to get a routine down here at home and FINALLY receiving some outside help. Katlyn continues to progress slowly but consistently and appears to be making progress despite the diagnosis of hydrocephalus. She continues to push forward in spite of consistent headaches and increasing drowsiness. She is doing very well and answers questions appropriately with her “yes” ‘no” buttons. Her speech therapist has been working on picture and word identification. She absolutely LOVES anything involving having to show what a bad a$& she is (ie. arm wrestling, thumb wrestling and sparring with her step-dad, Jimmy). Hugs are her specialty and BOY do they feel good and most recently telling people “I love you” with her hand via sign language. Katlyn will be undergoing, what we hope will be her last surgery on Thursday for a VP shunt to drain the extra fluid in her brain. It is our hope and belief from her doctors and therapists that relieving this pressure will speed her therapy along further.
We also want to wish Taylor Farewell and GOOD LUCK in the next few months as you embark on a new chapter of your life, may this last year have given you the strength to get through it. Make us proud and I stand by my promise to Kate if you ever make your way to NYC for “fleet week” we’ll be there. 
March 8th, 2010 at 6:59 pm
Good luck to Katlyn on Thursday. She is constantly in my thoughts and everyone still misses her and asks about her. As always she is in my prayers. Big A
March 10th, 2010 at 4:48 am
Hi Princess,
Greetings from the desert. Well we survived the Iraqi national elections and things are pretty much downhill from here. I will be praying for you when you have your last surgery. Just stay strong like you always do and you will be fine. I will be thinking about you.
Your friend,
John Walter
March 11th, 2010 at 8:38 am
Best of luck today as she has her surgery! We all continue to think of her and her family! You are all an inspiration and continue to make us proud! Keep climbing!
Love,
Mrs. BLakes