Help for the Johnsons

A few months ago, Keren fainted in class whilst teaching her 6th-grade students, proceeding a severe headache. From that point, she experienced a few more syncope episodes but managed to sleep them off before returning back to work. She was confused as to what the cause was and feared that her neuralgia which was treated 3 years ago may have returned.

Three weeks ago, Keren had the most severe syncope,  at school again, and was not able to keep consciousness. At this time, Keren was having trouble with her speech.  The paramedics rushed her to the ER and then she was admitted to UT Southwestern hospital in Dallas. Keren has been hospitalized ever since. She has fainted once in the hospital, but since that point, she is unable to walk, shower or use the bathroom unassisted and needs constant care.

Keren has been diagnosed with a very rare autonomic nervous system disorder called POTS. Postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS) is a condition that affects circulation (blood flow). POTS is a form of orthostatic intolerance, the development of symptoms that come on when standing up from a reclining position, and that may be relieved by sitting or lying back down. The primary symptom of an orthostatic intolerance is lightheadedness, fainting, and an uncomfortable, rapid increase in heartbeat. Each case of POTS is different. POTS patients may see symptoms come and go over a period of years. In most cases, with proper adjustments in diet, medications and physical activity, a person with POTS will see an improvement in the quality of life. Also, if an underlying cause is found and is treated, POTS symptoms may subside.

As a result of this condition, Keren doesn’t know when she will be able to return to work. Keren has now moved to a skilled nursing facility where she will receive physiotherapy, occupational therapy and all the care and attention she needs during rehabilitation.

Rob and Keren haven't asked for help, but as their close friends we want to do anything we can to help them at this time and can only imagine what a huge burden the medical bills and loss of earnings are for them.  Alleviating some of that stress will be a huge step towards helping them in this journey to Keren’s complete rehabilitation.

Any and all donations, big or small, will be a huge blessing to this sweet family.  Let's get the word out there by sharing this on all of our Facebook pages and Twitter.  And please keep them in your prayers as Keren handles the frustration of her incapacity and Rob tries to combine caring for Keren, their 2 beautiful children and doing his UBER work.