Help Kira in her battle with Endo

About five and a half years ago, an amazing young woman, Kira Gratzol, came into our lives and has since become a cherished member of our family. Some of you know Kira, but for those who don’t we would like to share a bit of her story. Kira is an avid runner, skier, hiker and dog lover. She is most happy and most herself when physically active, in spite of long time struggles with her health. At the age of 13 she began to experience the sudden onset of severe migraines, body aches, pelvic pain, bladder and digestive issues, fatigue and flu-like symptoms often lasting for days, These have become increasingly debilitating and affect every aspect of her life. Kira has no idea in what condition she will wake each and every day. She has seen numerous healthcare providers and endured countless tests, procedures, elimination diets, and supplement regimens in an attempt to heal her body. Yet, her condition remained diagnostically unexplained and no significant symptom relief has resulted from these therapeutic approaches. This has left her with the devastating question “Will I ever get my life back?” However, hope is on the horizon!!

Last September, Kira underwent diagnostic laparoscopy through which she received a definitive diagnosis of Endometriosis. What is Endometriosis? It is a disease in which tissue similar to the endometrium (the lining of the uterus) is found outside the uterus on other parts of the body. It affects 1 in 10 women worldwide during their most productive years, and can impact all aspects of their lives – school, careers, finances, relationships, and overall well-being as the symptoms are extremely painful. At the end of this month Kira will travel to the Bay Area to undergo advanced excision surgery with an internationally renowned endometriosis and pelvic pain specialist Dr. Andrew Cook. Dr. Cook employs a multidisciplinary approach, utilizing leading edge, traditional western medicine and alternative integrative medicine. He is confident that through surgery and  continued holistic care, Kira’s health and vitality can be restored, greatly improving her quality of life.

Kira’s kind heart and gentle soul have touched the lives of so many, and her tenacious resolve to heal and dedication to doing whatever it takes is an inspiration to us all. It is our hope that providing relief from the significant financial burden of this highly specialized surgery, we will enable Kira to focus fully on her journey toward health. Please consider contributing whatever you’re able….every bit helps! All donations to Kira’s Go Fund Me account as well as all good wishes are greatly appreciated.

 

If you'd like to learn more about this invisible disease, please visit www.vitalhealth.com and click on Endometriosis Specialty Center.