Katy is a sweet and kind young lady who just celebrated her 17th birthday on Halloween day. She is a lover of animals, enjoys studying history (especially historical figures), and she loves spicy foods.
When Katy was 9 years old, she was diagnosed with a condition called PANDAS. This diagnosis is a pediatric autoimmune neuropsychiatric disorder that is often caused from a strep infection. If the strep infection is not healed, the infection will ultimately attack the body and cause long-term brain damage.
Katy was immediately placed on steroids and antibiotics to fight the strep infection. Unfortunately, her body did not respond to the typical treatments, so Katy was placed on IVIG transfusions. These transfusions are used to provide her with additional antibodies.
On May 15, 2025, Katy threw a blood clot in her brain and was emergency airlifted to Portland. While in Portland, doctors had to surgically remove half her skull because of such intense swelling.
Katy’s family was told she had suffered a stroke, and the long-term damage could change her entire life. They were told Katy would mostly likely not walk again; she may not talk or eat on her own and basically would need to relearn every life skill. It was very grim news and her family prepared for the worst.
Despite all the hurdles Katy was up against, she has proven she is an incredibly fierce individual and has worked so hard to regain strength and her independence. She still has a road ahead of her, but she is truly such an inspiration. She and her family hope her story will inspire others to never give up, no matter what the odds may be.
Katy will be adopted as the Sparrow to Phoenix High School. PHS students will work hard to earn money for Katy through sponsored community service.
