Cyndi Loza

When 17-year-old Kristin Katich was diagnosed with leukemia, her life was put on hold. “I didn’t want to face it dead on,” the Galena High School junior said. “But hearing what my friends had to say, ‘be strong,’ I thought why not live your life more to the fullest and live happy.”

In December, Galena juniors Amy Erger and Kristen VanCitters began selling T-shirts with their friend’s motto “LIVE HAPPY” on the front, and the words “Team Kristin” on the back. They have sold 300 shirts at their high school, raising about $2,000 for Katich’s treatment.

“We don’t want her to worry about the payment,” Erger said. “We want her to get the best treatment she can get.”

Katich was diagnosed in December and will continue her treatment for another 18 months. She receives treatment through Children’s Hospital & Research Center in Oakland, Calif.

“When your kid gets hit with this, it’s really like a big bomb explodes in your house, and your whole world changes,” said Katich’s mother, Leslie Katich. “(But) when you have a support group like the Ergers, it just makes the whole situation just bearable, and you know you’re not alone.”

Leslie Katich said it has been hard taking trips to Oakland for treatment, but she is grateful for the help her friends have given her.

“It’s just wonderful these kids have taken their time to think of others,” Leslie Katich said. “It’s very heartwarming. We’re very humbled.”

Shirt sales have expanded to Pine Middle School, and there are plans to begin selling them at Hunsberger Elementary. Kristin’s brothers attend both schools.

“The treatment costs so much, and we really wanted to help them out because she is such a good friend,” Erger said.

Kristin Katich said this experience has given her insight on the value of friendship.

“It just lets me know who my real friends are and how much they care,” Kristin Katich said.

To buy a shirt contact Amy Erger at 852-0428.