A Coplay family organized a special, surprise holiday gathering for a neighbor who is facing illnesses. Kathy Daniels, of Coplay, is experiencing a series of significant health issues that befell her over the past year and a half, leading to brain surgery during the Christmas holidays.

The Dec. 7 surprise gathering featured loved ones coming together and helping provide joy and peace of mind in providing more than 80 gifts for the Daniels family — Kathy and Jack and their sons, Damien, Nick and Jayden.

The gathering was attended by the Castro family, Christine, Felix and their three children, Xavier, Zaylynn and Devyn; a friend, Emily Shelley; plus Kathy’s mother, Arlene, and sisters Lisa Dries and Heidi Smerek; and Jack’s sister.

Gifts were provided to the Daniels family and delivered by Santa of the Santa of Lehighton group. Mrs. Claus (Crystal Roader) was also present. The Grinch roaming around in cheerful spirits was Zaylynn.

Santa arrived from up north in an attractive red sleigh filled with Christmas presents for the Daniels family. Mrs. Claus was there incognito wearing civilian clothes.

Because of the challenging circumstances of an upcoming major surgery, the gathering afforded concern to temporarily recede to the background. This Christmas gathering was different, though no one wanted to say it aloud. The importance was for Kathy to be surrounded by the people and family who mattered most — to share the love of the Christmas season many take for granted.

Her three young boys and those present knew this Christmas really wasn’t about gifts under a tree, but holding tight to the heartbeats that filled the Daniels family living room. Kathy and her husband watched their sons chase each other and enjoy the opening of gifts. Their young boys’ innocence is a priceless gift all its own to Kathy.

This stressful period taught Kathy to savor family moments with a clarity many people never find.

The gathering was not heavy or mournful. It wasn’t sadness Kathy felt. It was gratitude for the love that filled the room so completely that left no space for fear.

She said she was overwhelmed with joy and the heartfelt surprise gathering for her and her family. The warmth of love, presence and gratitude was appreciated by all.

The Dec. 7 holiday Christmas gathering at the Daniels home was “a Christmas to remember.”

According to Facebook, Kathy’s surgery went well, and she has returned home in time to celebrate the holiday with her family.