Toby, Katy and their children Storey and Kallen Luke or as he’s called “Kal Luke”.
This kids area is dedicated to Kal Luke for a very special reason. In October 2022 Kal after a normal day of play suffered a severe seizure. He was rushed to Lubbock where it was discovered he had a brain tumor. He was soon transported to Cook’s Children’s hospital where they determined he had a very rare cancer called Choroid Plexus Carcinoma. He underwent a rigorous 21 hour operation to remove the tumor.
This was followed by months of chemotherapy meaning they had to remain in the Dallas Area. They were finally able to come back home to O’Donnell in May 2023 after 7 months. On the day of their homecoming first responders and members of the community lined the streets to welcome Kal Luke and family home. A tribute of just how much this little guy touched the community.
Once in the comfort of “home” Kal was able to start his rehabilitation and was doing very well until December 2023 when Toby & Katy received what no one expected or wanted to hear. A new tumor surfaced resulting a regiment of radiation treatments and a surgery to reduce fluid from building up around the brain.
This meant another extended stay in the Dallas area. He no sooner returned home to O’Donnell in February 2024 when he caught RSV and had to be intubated and sent back to Cook’s Children’s Hospital in Fort Worth where he remained on the respirator for a month. In late March he was well enough to be able to come back home.
So why are we dedicating this kids corner to Kal Luke?
Well it is simple really, this special little cowboy is such an inspiration of courage, strength, and has the perseverance to overcome anything thrown his way. Through his journey and power of prayer he has been a bright light in many lives in our small community and has moved people towards a greater faith including our own.
The family’s strength comes from the Book of Isaiah Verse 41:10:
“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”
We encourage you, as your children enjoy this play area to live, love and relish in the joy of laughter no matter what challenges life brings.
