On January 15, 1998, Katya was born to Hunter and Michael. She weighed a healthy 7 lb., 7 oz. and her beautiful eyes were the first feature to catch their attention. Little did they know what was to come.

While attending church service, and when the lights were dimmed, Hunter noticed for the first time, there was a reflection in the dilated pupil of Katya's right eye. During Katya's six-week old wellness visit, Hunter asked the pediatrician to check that eye. He saw the same thing and recommended that Katya see the pediatric eye specialists at Children's Hospital Los Angeles.

Upon their arrival at Children's Hospital Los Angeles, Hunter and Michael were concerned, but not worried. Their worst fear was that perhaps their daughter had crossed eyes and might need surgery. However, after the tests were completed, their worst nightmare was confirmed. Katya had retinoblastoma. The day was Tuesday, April 14, 1998.

Katya was admitted Friday morning, April 17, at 6am for surgery at Children's Hospital Los Angeles. She was in surgery for 90 minutes. Her right eye was removed since it was almost filled with a tumor mass. Six tumors were discovered in Katya's left eye. These were treated immediately with a laser. On Monday, April 27, Katya began a three-cycle chemotherapy protocol treatment, which she completed in July.

Katya is now 6 years old and continues to receive eye exams and check ups for secondary cancers. No new recurrences have been detected. Even with her limited vision in her left eye, Katya amazingly still has depth perception. She is a video game wiz, swims, skateboards, takes karate classes and recently became interested in BMX biking. In school, she sees and indentifies colors and shapes. She is able to do intricate work with scissors and small objects. Recently, her teacher reported her to be above grade level with reading and writing.

Katya also, through guidance with Nancy Mansfield, was able to overcome some residual effects of post traumatic syndrome. Many children with hospital visit history manifest their fear and feeling out of control as an infant by acting it out. With play therapy, specially tailored for medical related trauma, they are able to express their feelings. Katya hopes one day to be able to help other children who might be afraid when they have to receive medical treatments.

Hunter and Michael are confident that Katya will be a cancer survivor and live a healthy and normal life. They are most grateful to Dr. Linn Murphree, Nancy Mansfield and the team at Childrens Hospital Los Angeles. "Our faith is in the God who made Katya and uses doctors to heal, and we support those doctors trying to cure this deadly cancer. We stand on Romans 8:28, '...and God works all things together for good to those called according to His purpose.'"