Karen's Post-Concussion Treatment

About 2 and a half years ago, my mom Karen suffered two concussions within a 6 month time frame. Both injuries were to the same side of her head and left her with post-concussion syndrome. This invisible illness is a brain injury that has uprooted her entire life. Contrary to common belief, post-concussion syndrome is much more than "just a headache." Her injury has left her with dizziness, balance issues, short term memory loss, inability to drive or work, extreme sensitivity to sound and light, and more. To really understand what's going on, check out this video from another person with post-concussion syndrome. Just close your eyes and imagine my mom talking to you. It explains what she is going through much better than I possibly can.


For the past 2 and a half years, my mom and step-dad, Doug, have been to countless doctors and tried every treatment option that has been recommended to them. Nothing has worked, and the doctors have run out of ideas. My mom has had to retire from a job that she loved (at only 46!!!), and is essentially a shut-in. Our extended family has helped and will take her out or come visit, but the vibrant, active, silly Karen that everyone knows and loves has been buried beneath this injury. For those of you who have been wondering why you haven't seen my mom out around town for a while - this is why. 

Then Doug found out about Cerebrum Health Centers. This organization is a neurological health facility that specializes in rehabilitation for people affected by post-concussion syndrome and other traumatic brain injuries. People with symptoms just like my mom! There are lots of video testimonies online, but here's one. Warning: Tears ahead.



 After so many months of failed treatments and medications, Cerebrum Health Centers sounded like the miracle they had been praying for. And what's more, they had an opening! For the first time in 2 and a half years, my mom said the words "I'm going to get better." She's optimistic, and looking forward to travelling to Atlanta for treatment. My entire family is filled with hope of, to quote my grandma, "getting the old Karen back."

(This Karen. The goofy, silly, happy Karen that always has a smile! We miss her!)


But here's the catch. The facility doesn't accept insurance, and treatment costs $5,000 per week. She starts treatment soon, on March 27, 2017, and they are definitely going no matter what. However, she's been out of work for about 2 years, and the medical bills keep piling up. It's a lot for anyone, but especially on a couple living on one income. 

Throughout this entire process, my mom and Doug have ony ever asked for prayers. But it certainly wouldn't hurt to give them some financial support as well. I want to raise the money to cover her first session at Cerebrum Health Centers so that she and Doug can focus on her recovery while in Atlanta, and not have to worry about the expenses.
 

So, if you have a dollar to spare, please consider helping my family out. And if you can find a moment, send up some prayers for healing, especially during the week of March 27 while they are in Atlanta.

Thank you from the bottom of my heart!

Love and blessings,
Hannah