Kellie's Brain Surgery

On March 17th, during a routine MRI that Kellie has every few years for chronic migraines, an MCA (middle cerebral artery) Brain Aneurysm was found. Since the aneurysm was not present on the previous scan, it was considered active. Although originally it was thought to be small and possibly a wait and monitor situation, both the interventional neuro radiology consult and neurosurgery consult both recommended treating her brain aneurysm. On Thursday May 4th, Kellie had a neuro angiogram (catheter in femoral artery and guided up to the brain for the best images of the artery and aneurysm) in order for the doctors to make a decision on the best course of action. Options for treatment were between minimally invasive coiling brain surgery by the interventional neuro radiologist or the more invasive open craniotomy brain surgery and clipping procedure by the neurosurgeon. The angiogram found that not only had the aneurysm grown within the past month, but due to the shape and location of it, the safest and best option would be to perform the clipping procedure via craniotomy within the next week, or as soon as getting though insurance will allow. Her surgery entails a craniotomy (removing part of her skull to gain access to aneurysm within the brain), a 2 day ICU stay, 3 more days in the hospital, and a 6 week recovery at home.

Unfortunately at the end of last year, the large company that Kellie worked for, like many others, laid off a large number of employees, including Kellie. She has spent these past months volunteering her time traveling across the country on critical life saving mission trips for Be The Match, transporting donated life saving cells from donor to recipient. Unfortunately Kellie's plans to return to work have been put on hold since discovering the aneurysm, and now will have to be on hold for another 2-3 months.

Many of you may know, but if you don't, you should know how much Kellie does for others in her life! She has volunteered as a Guardian ad Litem for children in CPS, has volunteered for Be The Match (2 1/2 years), Big Brother's Big Sisters (8 years), many animal rescue organizations and organizing Thompson Reuters Animal Rescue Events, and even fostering rescue animals until they are adopted. As much as Kellie does for others, it was very difficult for her to agree to let others support her financially and allow her family to start this fundraiser for her. There have been many of you already asking what you can do to support Kellie on this difficult and scary medical journey. While we are confidant in the skill of the surgeon and medical staff to get Kellie through her surgery, this fundraiser is a way you can support her to Go, Fight, Win (couldn't help but get a cheer in)!

Thank you for considering donating to Kellie's Fundraiser and helping to allow Kellie to focus on surgery, recovery, and moving to Brain Aneurysm Survivor! Funds donated will be used for medical bills and financial needs without income during surgery and recovery. A sincere thank you for your support of our warrior Kellie!

#Team Kellie