- R
Back in August 2019, Christopher had a convulsive seizure that sent him to the ER. They put him on anti-epileptic medicine and his license was revoked until further notice. It took him almost a week to regain his full strength and get back into the flow of things. He was referred to a neurologist where they issued an EEG and a MRI, as well as a referral to a Cardiologist. The MRI showed what may represent an arachnoid cyst (extra fluid) or mega cisterna magna (enlarged space). At this point, the neurosurgeon did not believe brain surgery was vital.
Into the new year, Christopher has had 5 more prominent seizures. He's increased dosages, switched medications and is currently taking multiple medications (though nothing seems to work). A month ago, after exhausting all options his neurologist referred him to a specialist. This neurologist specializes in seizures, epilepsy and EEGs. Christopher took another MRI and completed a comprehensive 48 hr EEG. With a more in-depth MRI and more experienced eyes, the neurologist pinpointed an abnormal growth on his right amygdala (2x the size of the left). This growth could be focal cortical dysplasia (congenital abnormality of the organization of brain layers and bizarre neurons) or a low grade tumor. The 48 hr EEG showed that Christopher had 3 seizures (abnormal electrical discharges). The neurologist calls these 'silent seizures;" in which they do not disrupt Christopher's every day behavior. His silent seizures are unique and present the problem of not understanding what medicine is actually helping him.
With all this new knowledge, both the neurologist and the neurosurgeon recommend moving Christopher forward with brain surgery. Not only will this surgery allow him to be seizure free, it will allow us to get ahead of the possible tumor that can present bigger issues down the road. Stereotactic Laser Ablation Surgery is a minimally invasive procedure that may reduce certain surgical risks, reduce pain and shorten recovery time. Christopher's surgery date is currently set for Friday, May 29th at Hoag Hospital in Newport Beach.
This past year has been challenging for Christopher and me, but along the way we knew that God was working and healing. God's strength is what helped us power forward and His hope is what gave us peace in the unknown. We are extremely grateful for this opportunity of brain surgery and we trust that this is the most effective next step in Christopher's health journey.
We are reaching out, because we know that we are surrounded by so many amazing people that have such big hearts. Any monetary amount is received with love and appreciation. But what's bigger and more important than money, are your prayers. We believe prayer is so powerful and we ask that you keep Christopher and the doctors in your prayers. Please pray for a smooth and successful surgery, as well as a quick healing and a new beginning for Christopher. Again, your support means the world to us and we are so thankful for your contribution.
"Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, and faithful in prayer."
-Romans 12:12
Into the new year, Christopher has had 5 more prominent seizures. He's increased dosages, switched medications and is currently taking multiple medications (though nothing seems to work). A month ago, after exhausting all options his neurologist referred him to a specialist. This neurologist specializes in seizures, epilepsy and EEGs. Christopher took another MRI and completed a comprehensive 48 hr EEG. With a more in-depth MRI and more experienced eyes, the neurologist pinpointed an abnormal growth on his right amygdala (2x the size of the left). This growth could be focal cortical dysplasia (congenital abnormality of the organization of brain layers and bizarre neurons) or a low grade tumor. The 48 hr EEG showed that Christopher had 3 seizures (abnormal electrical discharges). The neurologist calls these 'silent seizures;" in which they do not disrupt Christopher's every day behavior. His silent seizures are unique and present the problem of not understanding what medicine is actually helping him.
With all this new knowledge, both the neurologist and the neurosurgeon recommend moving Christopher forward with brain surgery. Not only will this surgery allow him to be seizure free, it will allow us to get ahead of the possible tumor that can present bigger issues down the road. Stereotactic Laser Ablation Surgery is a minimally invasive procedure that may reduce certain surgical risks, reduce pain and shorten recovery time. Christopher's surgery date is currently set for Friday, May 29th at Hoag Hospital in Newport Beach.
This past year has been challenging for Christopher and me, but along the way we knew that God was working and healing. God's strength is what helped us power forward and His hope is what gave us peace in the unknown. We are extremely grateful for this opportunity of brain surgery and we trust that this is the most effective next step in Christopher's health journey.
We are reaching out, because we know that we are surrounded by so many amazing people that have such big hearts. Any monetary amount is received with love and appreciation. But what's bigger and more important than money, are your prayers. We believe prayer is so powerful and we ask that you keep Christopher and the doctors in your prayers. Please pray for a smooth and successful surgery, as well as a quick healing and a new beginning for Christopher. Again, your support means the world to us and we are so thankful for your contribution.
"Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, and faithful in prayer."
-Romans 12:12