Prayers are Welcomed...

Hello everyone,
I wanted to write tonight to let family and friends know about some health issues that I am facing. I have been dealing with some "issues" for about 4 years and have finally went to the right Dr and have some answers. I spent part of last week in University Hospital having tests done and a very risky spinal tap (we later discovered after my complete diagnoses was determined). I went in knowing that I had what is called Pseudo tumor Cerebri, basically fluid around my brain putting pressure on my brain which causes my body to respond as if I have a tumor, but there is no actual space occupying tumor. I had CT scans , MRI's and a spinal tap to measure the pressure and relieve some pressure as well.

When the MRI results were read it was discovered that I also have what is called Chiari Malformation. This is a genetic issue (but thankfully for Jazmyn's sake not always hereditary) that I was most likely born with. Chiari Malformation (Arnold-Chiari) is a serious neurological disorder where the bottom part of the brain, the cerebellum, descends out of the skull and crowds the spinal cord, putting pressure on both the brain and spine and causes many symptoms. I will be going to a neurosurgeon this coming Monday the 16th for my Pre-Op appt. I do not know what next week holds yet. I know that surgery is in my future but as to when I am not sure. I will know more after Monday I suppose. You can visit www.conquerchiari.org for more information if you'd like.

Overall, I am doing okay I suppose with this. I am relieved to finally know what all of my symptoms are from however it is something quite serious so I am also apprehensive as to what my next few weeks and/or months may hold. Jeovany has been by my side the whole time. Mom plans to take some time off of work whenever I do have surgery. Jazmyn has been "taking care" of me quite well also and reminding me of my dr's orders. She's such a sweet little mommy!!! We do appreciate any and all thoughts and prayers!!! I am no longer able to babysit because I am restricted to lifting no more than 15 pounds right now and after surgery it is expected to be even a lesser amount. That was a $1200 pay cut monthly to an already financially struggling family so keep the prayers coming for that as well. Mom and I are really working our SPA business and things are going quite well. I am trusting that this teamwork business will get us thru financially.

I will try to post again in near future...however I may be a bit tied up at the hospital...LOL. You are welcome to call mom 660-221-4816, Jeovany 660-596-2503 or myself 660-221-5366 if you want an update next week.

Take care and God Bless,
Kimberly