Katie Johnson is a 6 year old girl from Columbia SC who recently was diagnosed with a glioma brain tumor located in the pons of the brain stem. It is virtually unreachable surgically. This makes the tumor much more threatening than a tumor found on the cortex, where it can be cut out with relative ease. This has cast a pall over the prognosis of the cancer, but we are not giving up.

Katie's father, Albin, founded the Fan-Based organization known as the 'fighting 501st'. This organization's focus was ironically enough fund raisers for childrens charities, the 'make a wish' foundation, and various childrens hospital visits as costumed Star Wars characters.

That along with the community service and sacrifice he had personally given makes the families story all the more compelling. The family has a deep personal faith and strength but faith and strength can only go so far with mounting bills, from medical to travel to get the best help for Katie.

Katie and family needs your help. Take a minute to donate, a small financial donation would go far in helping Katie have a happier time.

The 501st is currently trying to raise $20,000 for Katie and her family by February 14th. The medical expenses for Katie are growing and we, the 501st, are doing what we can to raise money to help.

Please make a donation directly to the family at www.ForKatie.org.

Thanks to Matt Myers for passing along the info.