Visit to the Neurologist

Thanks for all of your prayers.  We need them. 

We got back from the neurologist a little bit ago.  It's confirmed that Molly has Chiari I Malformation.  Surgery is not only a must, but the neurologist also encouraged a sense of urgency.  If it isn't taken care of soon there can well be more permanent damage done to her body. 

Basically the lower back of her brain, the cerebellum, is pressing into her spinal column and putting pressure on her brain stem.  Note in the Molly's MRI film on the right (click it for a larger version) the dashed line "T."  That is the bottom of the cerebellum part of the brain where it shouldn't be.  It's causing her both physical problems (limbs going numb, significant back and neck pain, balance issues, dizziness, etc) as well as some problems with her thinking.  She is struggling to track well in some of her conversations and has difficulty coming up with the right words to say.

First thing tomorrow morning we are going to speak with a neurosurgeon at the University of Chicago.  He is gone for the day or we would contact him today.  U of C is well recognized for this kind of surgery and comes highly recommended by Molly's neurologist.  We considered the Mayo Clinic, but with four kids it's difficult to go farther away (they likely will stay here in Woodstock with friends). 

As we understand it, this surgery should really help to straighten things out.  Many recover from most of their pain and difficulties.  The hospital stay should be 3-4 days. 

You would be right to guess we are concerned and a bit stressed over all this.  Molly is doing pretty well knowing surgery is coming, but I have to admit I'm starting to freak out a little bit.  We know God is in control and that we can trust Him with all our circumstances.  And I do feel all will turn out just fine in the end.  But I'm really starting to feel the weight of what's coming.  The next few months are going to be very stressful.

I love my wife so much.  As difficult as this will be for her, and for us, in many ways I'm looking forward to caring for her.  Please pray that we will get this surgery in the works asap.  And thanks again for all your prayers.  I will post any updates when I am able.

Comments

[Bryan F]

You and Molly will be in our prayers Steve. Bryan F.

[Virgil]

I pray it all goes well mate!

[Les Puryear]

Steve,

I went through something similar a month ago with my son when he had a spinal tumor. Me and my family are praying for you and yours.

Les

[Bill Kinnon]

Know you are being prayed for by many who've only met you via the blog world - but who recognize you as sister and brother. Praying for the kids, too.

[Jeremy]

Praying for you and your family.

[Greg Thornbury]

Steve:

Please know that Kimberly and I are praying for Molly, for you, and the children. I am so sorry to hear about this development. I trust that the Lord will give you Divine Power to live through this time. Thanks for keeping us all posted.

[Steve McCoy]

Thanks everyone. It's hitting us today what a big deal this is. You guys are a great encouragement to us and we really do need your prayers.

Steve

[Rodney & D'Shon McCarty]

May the peace that no one can explain overwhelm not only you and Molly, but the kids too....

[Kiki]

We'll be praying that the peace which passes all understanding will engulf your whole family, and that God will give you the strength and wisdom that you need to make it through this time.

[Mark Gstohl]

Steve,
I know what you mean about looking forward to caring for your wife. My wife had breast cancer a few years back and it was a privilege to be able to minister to her during that time.

I'll be praying for your wife, you, and the kids.

Grace,

mg

[Kelly Mikhailiuk]

Taras and I are praying for you daily, and I know my mom and dad are praying as well. We love you guys so much, and you continue to be such a blessing to us. I know God is holding Molly, you, and each of your children in His loving and sovereign hands. I am praying for His peace and strength to fill each one of you during this time, and asking Him to grant complete and quick healing to Molly. We'll keep praying and watching for updates.

With love,
Kelly and Taras

[robert]

i'll be praying for you both.

[Keith]

I pray for God's peace to come into this situtation. - Keith

[steve y]

definitely praying for you and your family, and your church as this occurs. you've been a wonderful minister to me through this site. thanks for the opportunity to bless you back.

[art rogers]

Steve,

Praying for you all.

[Joel]

Steve,

My family and I will be praying hard for you, Molly and the kids. I can't imagine what you are going through personally, but I'm asking God to strengthen you and care for your wife through you in a way you never could on your own.
Blessings, Joel

[Matthew]

Even heathen Methodists like me will pray.

[Travis Hilton]

Steve,

I have prayed for you since the loss of your mother and will continue to pray for you and your wife through this situation as well as your precious children.

TBH

[Account Deleted]

I will be praying for you all. You have been such a blessing to me through this site.

[Mark Goodyear]

We're still praying here in Texas.

[Jeff T]

Praying for you and Molly.

[Kolin]

Steve,

Practical question here...

How are you going to cope with medical expenses?
I don't live in the USA , so don't know how things work there.

Are you insured?
Will insurance cover everything ?

[Rhett Smith]

you are in our prayers