Cheryl Rathke

The Rathke family was on vacation in Minnesota visiting family late July/early August. They had a fantastic time. Cheryl felt fine -- had no symptoms. There is nothing she could have known or done to prevent this or avoid it. In Cheryl's own words: "This is God's next calling on my life."

By the grace of God, Cheryl was not driving when their family pulled into a McDonald's parking lot in Des Moines, IA. Her hands began to shake out of her control. That's the last thing she remembers as a grand mal seizure took over her brain. After spending two nights (time spent being medicated and tested) in Mercy Hospital in Des Moines, Cheryl was released to come home to continue tests in the Denver area. 

Four tumors were found in Cheryl's brain. After a PET scan revealed a small tumor in her lung, it is believed that this is a rare form of lung cancer that has metastasized to her brain. 

As we give updates on Cheryl's treatment, condition, and needs, please keep Cheryl, her husband, Steve, and their six precious children (Caelan, Christian, Alianna, Aedan, Shiona, Brennan) in your minds, in your hearts, in your prayers. 

It is the Rathke family's deepest desire to point you (and all who come to know their story) to Jesus. He is Lord. He is Lover. He is Provider. He is Power. He is Peace. He is Healer. He is Savior. He is Life. 

As you follow the unfolding of their story, may you see the Jesus they know and love in these pages, in their lives, and in the lives of those who rally around them. 

All for Him and to His name.