Medical Expenses for Tala (Luke & Teeny Davis)

Tala’s story

 

At 18 weeks pregnant, Tala was found to have fluid on her brain and after several ultrasounds and MRI, Tala was diagnosed with Dandy-Walker malformation and hydrocephalus.

 

Dandy-Walker malformation affects brain development, primarily development of the cerebellum, which is the part of the brain that coordinates movement. In individuals with this condition, various parts of the cerebellum develop abnormally, resulting in malformations. Children with Dandy-Walker malformation often have delayed development, particularly a delay in motor skills such as crawling, walking, and coordinating movements.

 

Hydrocephalus is a condition in which there is excessive accumulation of fluid in the brain.  This excessive accumulation of fluid in the brain results in an abnormal widening of spaces in the brain called ventricles. This widening creates potentially harmful pressure on the tissues of the brain.

 

Throughout pregnancy the fluid on Tala’s brain was monitored and ventricles were measured with ultrasounds and MRIs. These scans have and will continue throughout her life to ensure she is receiving the best care and is able to live as normal life as possible. Tala will most likely need a shunt to help with draining the fluid and releasing pressure in her brain.

 

Following birth, Tala was also diagnosed with microphthalmia. Microphthalmia is a rare genetic eye condition that happens in utero. In this condition, one or both eyeballs are abnormally small. For Tala, both eyes have been affected and her eyes at this time appear with clouding of the lens of the eye (cataract-like) and a narrowed opening of the eyes. At this time, it is unknown what her vision will be in the future but it is most likely that sweet girl will have many visual impairments-blindness.

 

Tala is a strong, snuggly, warrior child of God. She is a miracle. She is currently in the NICU at St. Vincent Women’s Hospital for monitoring and ensuring she has the best team of doctors and surgeons to help her in the future. Tala will have many follow up appointments with neurosurgeons, neurologists, ophthalmologists, physical and occupational therapy, along with any other services to assist as needed.

 

With such amazing teams and specialized care, the cost of such services are expensive. Any amount that is offered and given will be greatly appreciated, prayed over, and will provide Tala will the care she will need now and in the future.

 

Prayers and praise to God, for He is the ultimate and mighty physician. He is healer. Way-maker. God provides and makes the impossible possible.

 

Thank you for reading Tala’s story so far, for the prayers and praises of God, and assisting in any way. You are a difference maker and blessing just like my sweet warrior.

 

XOXO,

 

Christine