Hi, my name is Kate. On December 30, 2025, I will undergo atlantoaxial fusion surgery after a long and difficult medical journey.

Earlier this year, I was diagnosed with hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (hEDS), a connective tissue disorder that helped explain more than a decade of chronic headaches, dizziness, extreme fatigue, and an inability to exercise—symptoms that significantly worsened after the birth of our daughter, Astrid.

After years of being told my symptoms would improve, I finally found specialists who ran extensive testing and identified several serious conditions, including atlantoaxial instability, POTS, Nutcracker syndrome, and immune complications. Advanced imaging showed excessive motion at the top of my neck causing brainstem impingement, making surgery necessary to prevent further neurological decline.

I also sought a second opinion with an in-network neurosurgeon. After reviewing my case and imaging, he explained that my condition was especially complex due to my connective tissue disorder and confirmed that I was already under the care of the most experienced surgeon for this type of instability. He encouraged me to move forward, affirming that choosing this level of specialized expertise was worth the added cost.

Throughout this process, I firmly believe the Lord has led me to this surgery at every turn and that this is what He has for my life at this time. A verse the Lord has continually brought before me is Malachi 4:2 (NLT):

“But for you who fear my name, the Sun of Righteousness will rise with healing in his wings. And you will go free, leaping with joy like calves let out to pasture.”

My surgeon is a world expert in atlantoaxial instability and specializes in patients with connective tissue disorders like EDS. While insurance will cover the hospital portion of the surgery, his surgical fees and many recovery-related costs are not covered. The total expected cost for surgery and recovery is approximately $30,000.

This surgery will allow me to run, jump, exercise, and have the energy to be fully present with my family again—to live without constant headaches and neck pain, and to walk forward in the healing and freedom God promises. Our family would be incredibly grateful for your prayers for a complete recovery. And if God leads you in making a donation or to share this page, please know how thankful we are for your gift.

Your support, whether financial or prayer, is appreciated more than words can express.

Thank you.