Chris Strickland's Journey

Chris Strickland has been a close friend of our sons and our family for over 20 years. Chris knew for several years that something wasn’t quite right with his health.  He experienced debilitating headaches, constant ringing in the ears and sudden episodes of vertigo.  After multiple CT scans and being misdiagnosed, an MRI finally revealed an Acoustic Neuroma - a rare and typically benign tumor situated between the brain stem and cerebellum which grows on the 7th and 8th cranial nerves.
Considering the risks involved with brain surgery and the complex nature of the tumor, he was advised by his neurosurgeon to “watch and wait” in hopes the tumor would grow slowly enough that surgical resection could be postponed as a last resort option.  Unfortunately, by May of this year his symptoms worsened and a follow-up MRI showed the tumor had grown more rapidly than anticipated and was dangerously pressing on his brain stem. 

Chris underwent a Retrosigmoid Craniotomy at USC Keck Medical Center on October 17th.  Due to the surgical approach and complex position of the tumor, the vestibular nerve was cut providing a better chance of preserving his facial and auditory function.  Chris is now in recovery and focusing each day on his physical therapy and regaining his equilibrium.  Although recovery time is uncertain, he will not be able to return to work until his balance and coordination are rehabilitated.
 
We are reaching out to family and friends this holiday season, to help Chris during this challenging time. Any financial support you can offer would be something that he would be forever grateful, to get him back on his feet again.

With the amount of outstanding costs related to surgery and the post-operative need for vestibular therapy not covered by insurance, the rising costs are overwhelming.  We appreciate any amount of gift you are able to extend to Chris as he moves from this difficult time toward a full recovery.  The estimated medical costs not covered by insurance  exceed $25,000.

THANK YOU so very much for your kindness, generosity and good wishes!