Rallying Together for Matt & Emily Everson

For months, Matt had been battling relentless headaches, and despite countless attempts to find answers, relief remained out of reach. On Monday, March 10, 2025, the pain and pressure became unbearable. Experiencing one of the worst headaches of his life, coupled with unusual symptoms, Matt was rushed to the ER.

Thursday, March 13, Matt was released from TMC with a diagnosis of a transient ischemic attack (TIA)—commonly known as a mini-stroke. A They were discharged from TMC with the reassurance that they already had an appointment scheduled at the Mayo Clinic in Arizona on Friday, March 14, 2025. TIA is a temporary blockage of blood flow to the brain that typically resolves within 24 hours. Later, Matt confided in Emily that if she hadn’t convinced him to seek care when she did, he believes he could have suffered a full-blown stroke—or worse. In addition to the TIA, doctors also diagnosed him with a possible stroke and a severe, persistent migraine condition called status migrainosus.

While in the hospital, neurologists made a shocking discovery: Matt has Arnold-Chiari malformation type 1, a condition where his cerebellum extends 6mm out of his skull. This malformation may have compressed an artery, triggering the TIA by temporarily cutting off blood flow to his brain. It is also pressing against his occipital and trigeminal nerves, causing chronic, debilitating nerve pain. The neurologist recommended Matt return for a specialized MRI to measure blood flow and oxygen levels in his brain following their upcoming appointment at the Mayo Clinic.

Their trip to Mayo was anything but easy. A snowstorm delayed their arrival by four hours, making them 30 minutes late. But by the grace of God, Mayo still saw Matt. The ENT conducted a thorough examination and reviewed his recent hospital MRIs. In a rare and unexpected turn of events, they discovered that Matt’s mass had resolved on its own—an unlikely but fortunate outcome. However, the ENT confirmed that Matt’s symptoms were not ENT-related and referred him to a neurologist at Mayo for further evaluation, requiring yet another trip.

On their way home, Matt called his original neurologist—a doctor he knows personally—to share the findings and update her on his worsening symptoms, which now include:

• Forgetfulness

• Difficulty regulating emotions

• Stuttering

• Trouble recalling words and thoughts

The symptoms are taking a toll. In one day alone, Matt asked Emily what day it was four separate times. Deeply concerned, his neurologist immediately sent a referral to a neurosurgeon at TMC and ordered the specialized MRI to measure oxygen flow to Matt’s brain.

Now, Matt and Emily find themselves in a waiting period—awaiting the Mayo referral to be triaged, the MRI at TMC to be scheduled, and the appointment with the neurosurgeon the following morning.

At this point, the possible treatment options are medication or brain surgery. Unfortunately, Matt was already on the highest dosage of medication during his hospital stay, and that option has been exhausted.

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How You Can Help

This sudden and life-altering diagnosis has shaken their family and the entire community. Matt and Emily are a young, talented couple with three beautiful children, and their kindness, hard work, and faith have made a lasting impact on so many. Seeing them face such an overwhelming battle has been heartbreaking.

While the physical pain, waiting, and uncertainty are difficult, Matt and Emily remain steadfast in their faith. They trust in God’s sovereignty and continue to lean on His strength, believing He is walking with them through this season.

However, the emotional, physical, and financial strain is immense. With both Matt and Emily working full-time, the mounting medical expenses, travel costs, and lost income are going to start taking a significant toll.

They are humbly asking for prayers, support, and contributions to help them through this difficult time.

Your generosity—whether through prayers, kind words, or donations—will make an incredible difference in their lives. Thank you for standing with Matt, Emily, and their family during this challenging season. ❤️