Abigail Baatz Pseudotumor Cerebri Support

It started out as blurry vision and pressure headaches that Abbie just couldn't shake. When it became hard to breathe, Abbie ended up in the emergency room on October 20, 2018. After numerous hospital visits and treatment plans that just didn't work, Abbie was diagnosed with Pseudotumor Cerebri. This a rare condition where the body acts as if there is a brain tumor when no tumor actually exists. The condition causes excess fluid to build up in the brain and place pressure on the eyes. If treatment is not effective, the condition can lead to blindness. 

Since that diagnosis, Abbie has been on a long treatment journey. She has tried medication and been treated at two different hospitals. When those efforts did not help, Abbie was referred to the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, MN. There she underwent brain surgery where a shunt was placed inside of her skull to allow the fluid to drain into her digestive system. This worked for two weeks, but the headaches and double vision returned. Since then she has made repeated trips to the Mayo for readjustments. She has also braved six spinal taps in seven weeks as they work to save her vision. It is uncertain when this process will be over. 

 Abbie has been unable to work since October 19th and her medical bills are quickly accumulating. She also has to regularly make the 3.5 hour drive to Rochester for treatment. Abbie is struggling to recover while she cares for her nine year old daughter and is hoping to return to work as soon as possible. 

Any support you can provide would be greatly appreciated. Funds will be used for Mayo travel expenses and medical treatment. Please also send thoughts and prayers for her family and her recovery. 

Thank you to everyone who has supported Abbie throughout this process.