Today I had C-4,C-5, and C-6 (cervical neck bones) fused together….not my favorite thing to do on a Wednesday, but I am so glad that the surgery is finished and I had a very good surgeon/hospital staff, my neck is truly on its way to recovery now, and I am feeling pretty good (Vikadin helps). I won’t be able to lift Cora for a few weeks, but I will be able to start building up my strength.
I am continually grateful for all the people that have been praying for me and Cora and our family and giving love and support so freely.
I had a special treat this weekend — Ryan’s sister was able to visit me in Oregon (I swear, the country is too big. I wish I could be with all my family and friends throughout the USA… and the world for that matter). We spent a lot of time talking about her memories of Ryan growing up and my memories of Ryan as a great husband. I can still feel his love from heaven… I am lucky ![]()
Oh, I am also looking forward to a visit from Ryan’s mother next week.
Most patients with this surgery only stay in the hospital overnight, so I should be back home before I know it.
God bless you all, whoever is reading this post.

Again you amaze me with your courage, love and strength! I’m so glad to hear that your surgery went well! You look amazing in your picture… thank you for posting that! We love and pray for you daily! I can’t wait to see your smiling face again at church!
Much Love,
Jenn Hedgepeth
Beautiful picture!
Your smile is just as radiant as ever! I’m glad that you’re on the road to recovery!
Great picture! Great post! Glad you had a fun time w/ family! Love you!
We love you so much!!!! Katie, you are a blessing to all of us around you, and yet I know you don’t believe that. And I still think your hair is “sassy”!!!!! Love you always, Shawna
Hi Kate,
You don’t know me, but I knew Ryan in high school. I’m so glad you’re doing so well! Best wishes with everything, and you do indeed look beautiful.
Cristina
Hi Kate,
You don’t know me, I also knew Ryan in high school. It is always good to hear from you, and I am glad that you are doing so well. Our thoughts and prayers will be with you as you continue on your road to recovery.
Best wishes in everything you do,
Holly
It’s so good to hear that the surgery went well. We were definitely thinking of you and praying for you as you endure another surgery. You both look great in the picture. We love reading the updates and continue to be impressed with your strength and optimism.
Kate…
You are AMAZING!!!
Hey Cousin!
You look amazing! Glad to hear that the surgery went well. Love and prayers to you and Cora!
~Meagan & Family
Hi Kate! This is Nancy and David’s mom here. You all are still being prayed for at our house. I am so happy to hear about your progress and to see your beautiful picture. Cora is growing up fast! So cute!
I, like many others, am glad you are on the road to recovery. I’m not sure I have commented on any previous posts, but i have been reading. Keep your head up!
~Diana (HS friend of Ryan’s)
Katie,
You are truly a beautiful person inside and out. You amaze me with your faith and love. Keep up the good work, we are all so proud of you.
Kate I worked at MLA and I can’t get the image of you and Ryan singing at the talent show. You are an amazing person. My thoughts and prayers go out to you and your sweet family.
You probably have no idea how inspirational you are, but really…you are! I am SO happy to hear that you are doing better. I hate to say “hang in there”, but you know what I mean. I am thinking of you!
It’s good to hear from you again on this post. Glad to see you smiling with Cora in the photo. Keep up the good spirits, and I hope the recovery goes well!
Hey ladies,
Good to see you both up and smiling. Glad to hear the surgery went well. I saw Cora, and your mom at JJ’s baptism. She is such a cute little angel. Anyways I was thinking about you guys and thought I would see if there was an update. Keep you chin up and remember to feel the lord’s love each day.
Cupcake
Hi Katie: You are looking great. I get updates from your G-ma Doshier in my Ward. Cora is a real cutie pie; I bet you enjoy her so much. Glad to hear you are further on the mend. Love you tons! Loi Davis Ridgay