Let me tell you about the most amazing little boy...

Cooper was born in March of 2020, just as the nation locked down. He was the most beautiful baby, born during such an uncertain time. We first saw him on our phones via FaceTime as we sat in the hospital parking lot, waiting to welcome our first grandson. The next few months Jake and Amber enjoyed all the firsts; the first ride in a car, the first bath, the first smile. Then at 4 months of age he started having some unusual episodes that worsened. He was rushed to Children's Hospital in Plano where after a few days Cooper was diagnosed with Tuberous Sclerosis Complex, also referred as TSC. The episodes Cooper was having were seizures caused by tumors (tubers) on his brain.

TSC is a rare genetic disorder that can cause tumors to form in various organs, primarily the brain, eyes, heart, kidneys, skin and lungs. It is also the leading genetic cause of epilepsy.

Cooper see's many different kinds of doctors and physical therapist to help him with medical and development. He takes four different kinds of medication morning and night to help lessen his seizures. This has been a long trial and error to find the combination of medicine that works best for Cooper. No medicine has prevented his seizures, but they have been able to reduce them. After many tests and hospital visits we received the news we have been waiting and hoping to hear, Cooper was approved by the medical team for brain surgery to remove the tumor. As scary as this sounds, we know this is a huge blessing and are hopeful this will lead to Cooper being seizure free.

I am starting this fundraiser to help pay Jake and Amber's portion of the medical bills. Fortunately they are blessed to have health insurance, but even their portion of the medical bills has become overwhelming. I think back to when I was first married and remember hardships with normal bills, so I know this amount of medical bills has become a hardship. Jake has not wanted to seek help but as the bills and stress pile up, I know how appreciative he would be of some help. I hope by reaching out we can help with Cooper's medical bills. We are Cooper Strong!

#TotallyStrongCooper