Katie, thank you for your honesty, courage, and humor. I feel like it’s no coincidence that you were pursuing your passion for biochemistry before your world was turned upside down. I am confident that having experienced everything you have in this past year, with all of its physical and emotional highs and lows, has given you a unique perspective that you could not have witnessed any other way than by walking this long and difficult path. Your courage and strength inspires me daily and I know that someday you are going to use your passion and experience to change the world! You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers daily 💕

Thank you for sharing your heart. You are a very strong young woman. ❤️

Well said, Katie!! Many adults (er...those even older than 18-19) don’t know how to maneuver with other adults who are going through something they don’t have personal experiences with. Hopefully this helps your friends get over whatever their hangups are and get over to hang with you.

You and your family are in my thoughts regularly!

It’s so great to hear you are regaining your strength and even getting in the pool! It may seem like next spring is a long ways off, but you’ll be back at UWL before you know it. Keep conquering life one day at a time and happy birthday!!

You are a Warrior Katie!- you’ll come out of this stronger than before- you’ll also be even more empathetic toward others - God has great things for your future!!- the Stoecker’s send Love and positive healing vibes!!

Hi Katie, thank you for sharing just a part of your rigor in this battle. It was so nice to hear from you. I have a better idea of what you are facing, and some of the feelings that you have as you go through this. I hope you know that the Igls in Oregon love you, and wish you all the best. You are very brave. Love, Rick, Ann, and David Igl

Whoo!!!!!! Go Katie!!!!! And happy early birthday!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! 🎉🎉🇮🇸