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Hello everyone,
I’m reaching out for your support during a particularly challenging time for my wife, Sierra. In February, she tragically lost her father, and now she is facing another major hurdle: a rare 42 x 20 mm sized cyst in her brain that requires surgical removal. These recent events have been incredibly difficult for our family, but we are staying strong and focused on her recovery.
With the loss of Shannon, we were devastated to lose such a kind and loving father to Sierra and a wonderful grandfather to 3 grandchildren.
Before losing her father, Sierra had been going in and out of doctors visits for years with 12 ER visits just this year. As well as an ambulance ride. She has been suffering from headaches, dizziness, high blood pressure, high heart rate, nausea, trouble standing, uncommon fatigue, insomnia, and many other debilitating symptoms. The cyst was finally found after a CT scan of the throat due to difficulties with swallowing. After multiple MRIs it was found to cause compression on the tectal plate and will need removal. Due to the rarity and placement of this quadrigeminal plate cyst, which affects only 1-2% of people, there are only 3 surgeons in the nation that perform this type of surgery. Thankfully, we have one here in Utah. The surgery includes removing a small piece of skull at the back of the head and then entering through the cerebellum to get to the cyst. It is no easy feat. But we are trusting the great neurosurgical team at Utah Valley Hospital
Unfortunately, the medical expenses for the upcoming surgery, ongoing treatment and past medical bills are substantial. While we have insurance, it doesn’t cover all the costs associated with such a complex procedure. Additionally, there will be expenses related to her recovery period and follow-up care.
At minimum, after the surgery on August 13th, Sierra will have a week stay at the hospital as well as a month of recovery at home. We have a 4 year old, Brooks, that is starting school in a couple of weeks and we are falling behind due to the number of ER visits we've had to endure. Sierra is grateful to have found an answer to her problems and has great hope that the surgery will resolve a majority of her health issues. She is hopeful that she can go back to a normal routine and be more involved with her friends and family as this illness has kept her from so much.
Your support, whether through a donation or by sharing our story, means the world to us. Every contribution, no matter the size, will go directly towards easing the financial burden on our family so that Sierra can focus on healing and getting back to the activities she loves.
Thank you for taking the time to read our story and for any help you can provide. Your kindness and generosity during this difficult time are deeply appreciated.
Sincerely, Tyler & Brooks

