Hello All,

As many of you among the friends and family of the Gallaghers know, Nikki has been suffering from increasing hearing loss, vertigo, gait and balance issues, impaired reflexes and debilitating migraines. A recent MRI discovered a large 3.5cm tumor on the vestibular nerve (acoustic neuroma) to be the culprit. The tumor is benign but growing slowly, causing ever more severe symptoms and is now pressing on the brain stem.

Neurosurgeons from 3 separate teams have reviewed Nikki's case and all of them agree the tumor must be removed to prevent further critical damage. The surgery has been scheduled for October 8th at UCSD, the care team with which Nikki feels most comfortable. Recovery from this surgery looks different for each individual case; Nikki's hope–of course–is for a best-case scenario starting with balance restoration and minimization of facial paralysis and nerve issues. Unfortunately, right-side total deafness is an inevitable result of the surgery.

Thankfully, the Gallagher's health insurance is set to cover the most important basic aspects of the surgery and recovery process. However, there will be expenses for post-op therapies and long-term specialized care. Also, Nikki's bouts of illness have caused regular interruptions to her husband Ian's employment as a driver and photographer. Nikki has also been unable to work for some time, and has had to decline a new job for which she was recently hired. Most significantly, the Gallaghers have been advised that during the months following her surgery, Nikki will require around-the-clock care for which Ian will need to be present and at her bedside. During this time it is unlikely he will be able to work much, if at all, while simultaneously remaining perpetually on-call.

Following her surgery, the consensus is that Nikki will remain for around 5 days in the hospital, after which the first stage of her recovery will begin at home. Including this first and most difficult stage lasting approximately 6 weeks, the Gallagher's hope is for Nikki to achieve a state of "new normalcy" within 3-5 months. God-willing, the recovery will be as full and timely as possible.

All proceeds from this fundraiser will go to the Gallagher family, and will be used to cover expenses, bills and costs of care for our beloved Nikki Jean.

Please consider sharing generously with our beloved friends, and even more than that please be lifting them up in prayer often.

More details will be shared here as needed regarding surgery and recovery.