Paytyn's Army

I have been given one of the greatest gifts - a lifelong friend. There is not a memory or time that I can think of that Jeanna was not a part of my life. Her and her family have been like second family to my brother's and I. We have been through EVERYTHING (and then some) together. So, you can imagine the heartache that I felt when, just a week or so before my wedding I got "the call" from Jeanna that her son Paytyn was diagnosed with a brain tumor....my heart sunk - the details of the wedding faded in to the background.

On May 19, 2013 Paytyn Squires was diagnosed with a very aggressive brain tumor called Pontine Glioma with drop metastases throughout his spinal cord.

All I wanted to do was get on a plane, get to her as fast as I could and hug her and her little family tight! As much as I wanted/needed this lifelong friend of mine to be a part of "my" day, all I could think about from that moment on was how much more I wanted her little boy to be 100% better.

I made some adjustments and made sure "Jeanna" was a part of my wedding and I haven't stop praying from the moment I heard the news (and I appreciate all those who have come along side me to pray as well).

Jeanna with me at the rehearsal dinner!

Jeanna helping me get ready for the wedding.

Paytyn is such an incredible little boy. He's probably the smartest 5 year old I know and by the time he was 2 he knew more animal sounds than I do now, at 32. He loves animals, cars, the American flag, and bald eagles and he is a true cowboy. He's even done mutton bustin' at the rodeo in Salt Lake. (he's my hero - I love those brave little guys that do that). He loves his little sister Brya - I always enjoyed seeing how well they played together. I can't say enough about how smart, funny, loving, strong and just plain incredible this boy is.....I love him SO much.

Paytyn (5)  and Brya (3)

Cowboy Paytyn (makes my Texas heart proud)

After being married for just 2.5 weeks, my loving and completely understanding husband helped me get to Salt Lake to be with Jeanna and her family. I probably needed the trip more than she did. It was a blessing to be able to hug their necks, try to serve and encourage them and just spend a few days there.

Paytyn is currently undergoing daily radiation and chemotherapy and at 5 years old Paytyn is going through what no child should have to experience, yet he has an amazingly positive attitude. I was so encouraged by him while I was there visiting. He hardly complained, cried or made a negative comment. When he was uncomfortable he'd make a small whimper, as if he didn't want to bother anyone. He did everything his parents and doctors asked him to do and just wants to get healthy so he can play with his sister. Jeanna is one of the strongest people I know and has also maintained a positive/hopeful spirit throughout this experience.

Paytyn finishing a puzzle with Mom, Sister and Aunt Chelsea

I believe in miracles! I've seen them - I am reminded of them every day - and I am praying for a miracle for Paytyn Squires. Will you join me?

paytyn’s army are individuals who are coming alongside this family to support, pray, encourage and donate financially so that they can focus every moment of their day and every ounce of their being on Paytyn's healing. Below is a list of  fundraiser events that will be taking place in Reno to help with their financial needs. With one income and no insurance you can imagine the stress this is having on their family. In addition, PLEASE join me in constant prayer for their family. Soon there will be a Facebook Page set up and a website that will keep you updated on Paytyn's progress as well as hopefully raise some awareness and funds for research on this rare and aggressive type of cancer.

This is a story of hope, strength and faith .... and a story of my dearest friend Jeanna and her precious family. I love them, and I greatly appreciate any prayers and support this little blog post can get them.

Cowboy Paytyn - Good  Day during Aunt Chelsea's visit

Upcoming Events

Car Wash #1 – Sunday, April 21, 2013 –9:00-4:00pm

Wells Avenue Car Wash – 1019 S. Wells Ave. Reno, NV

Wells Avenue Car Wash has been kind enough to donate a portion of their revenue this day to Paytyn! 

Car Wash #2 – Saturday, April 27, 2013  - 9:30-5:00pm

Am/Pm - 2002 Sierra Highlands Dr. Off of Mae Anne, Reno, NV

Friends and family of the Squires will gather together to wash cars for donations. 100% of the proceeds will go towards Paytyn’s care.

Pay It Forward/Jewelry and Treats Party

Saturday May 4, 2013 – 1-3pm

2981 Lida Lane in Sparks.
A girl’s party with jewelry and treats. A part of the jewelry proceeds will be going to Paytyn’s Medical expenses. There will also be a raffle to win a cheesecake from Sweet Creams Cheesecakery - 100% of the raffle ticket proceeds will go towards Paytyn’s care.

Donations can also be made to Paytyn Squires at any Mountain America Credit Union - Acct # 9585030

Online donations use routing #324079555