Katelyn's Courage

When Katelyn was about 2 years old her parents noticed they could see a curve when she was sitting  or bending a certain way and then it would seem to almost disappear. At 4 yrs. old, she had pneumonia and they noticed a curve to her spine on the x-ray that had been taken, however it was still thought of as something they would  deal with when she was older. By the time Katelyn was 7 years old she was beginning to sit higher on her right than the left. Doctor's check ups and xrays all confirmed extensive scoliosis.  During evaluation for treatment doctor's found that Katelyn's curve had already progressed from 36 degrees to 45.5 degrees in just one months’ time. Time was of the essence and suddenly the Fox families world was flipped upside down.  The horrible news became worse when an MRI diagnosed Katelyn with Chiari I malformation and a Syringohyromeyelia which extends from her C2 to T10.  Chiari malformation happens when a part of the cerebellum extends below the base of the skull into the upper spinal canal.  If left untreated, this condition can lead to permanent nerve damage and paralysis. In Katelyn's case the malformation has led to development of syringomyelia, which is blocking the typical flow of cerebrospinal fluid.

Katelyn will require surgery to treat this condition. Surgery involves a craniotomy where they will cut a portion of her skull away to make room for her brain. The brain will be manipulated back up into its proper place and a durapatch will be placed. The dura patch is made of synthetic tissues that mimic brain tissues so her body will not reject it. She will undergo spinal cord decompression to assist with relieving the Syrinx.  She will have activity restrictions during the 3 months post operatively. Katelyn will be out of school for a month. Katelyn will need her mom by her side so Sheri will be out of work for at least 6 weeks.  Katelyn will need follow up treatment every 3 months for 2 years and then every 6 months after that. 

The funds from this campaign will be used to support Katelyn and her family with travel (they leave for Stanford on March 26th), accommodations,  high health insurance deductibles and medical expenses,  daily living expenses (Katelyn's mother, Sheri, will be out of work for at least 6 weeks taking care of Katelyn), and follow-up care. 

The last thing the Fox family should worry about is finances. Please consider making a contribution to support their journey to help Katelyn.