Tori's Medical Fund

Tori's illness began in November shortly before Thanksgiving when she developed seizures. After 2 hospitalizations, she was diagnosed with what was thought to be Epilepsy. However, throughout the month her neurological status continued to decline. On December 31st she was admitted to the PICU for treatment of a mysterious neurological condition. Blood work was sent to the Mayo Clinic where results showed that Tori is suffering from an auto-immune form of Encephalitis called Ani-NMDA Receptor Encephalitis. This is a disease that occurs when antibodies are produced by the body's own immune system attack the NMDA receptors in the brain. NMDA receptors are proteins that control electrical impulses in the brain. Their functions are critical for judgement, perception of reality, human interaction, the formation and retrieval of memory, and the control of unconscious activities (such as breathing, swallowing, etc), also known as autonomic functions. In order to treat this disease, Tori has been transferred to a larger medical center for plasmaphersis which is performed to treat autoimmune conditions. Although physicians are hopeful that Tori will make a full recovery, she will require a long hospitialization and aggressive rehabilitation . Her parents have been told to expect the process to take several months.  The costs of her medical care are rising and due to the critical nature of this illness, Tori's mother cannot work as someone has to stay with Tori around the clock.  A CaringBridge page has been established for family and friends to follow Tori's journey. Please keep Tori, Angela, Matt, and Taylor in your prayers.