Evan: Boston Medical Bound

In August of 2015, Evan was diagnosed with a condition called Achalasia. Achalasia is a rare disease, that when detected, is most prevalent in older men.  Achalasia affects the muscles in the esophagus and makes it difficult to swallow and digest food. It can also be painful and presents a choking risk as food resides in the esophagus until muscles relax enough to allow food into the stomach. The muscles relax at sporadic intervals which increases discomfort and likelihood of choking.

In December 2015, Evan underwent an experimental surgery, being the first child in Oregon to ever have it done. The purpose of the surgery was to loosen the muscles in the lower esophagus to allow the sphincter to swallow larger quantities of food more readily.

Below you will see a photo of Evan in July of 2015 before his diagnosis and March 2016, three months after the surgery.



Even after the surgery, Evan struggled to eat. He tried liquid diets and eliminating potential allergens, but with no relief.

At his one year post op, doctors confirmed what Jaimee and Evan had suspected, that the surgery was virtually ineffective. While there is currently no cure for achalasia, there are treatments that can lessen its effects. Doctors in Portland have expressed their limited expertise on the disease in pediatric patients, therefore we are headed to Boston on August 17th where the leading pediatrics GI specialist in the country practices. Evan will experience several days of testing and if deemed necessary will undergo a medical procedure while we are there.

Funding earned will help cover travel costs, food and lodging as well as medical expenses accrued while at Boston Medical. Please keep Evan and Jaimee in your prayers at this time and help them by sharing this story.

They thank you for the love and support they have received in the last couple of years and the continued encouragement.