Hello to all!
Thank you for visiting my fundraising page!
This is going to be my second year participating in the Fifth Third River Bank Run in Grand Rapids on Saturday May 8, 2010 for NF. For those that don’t know I have been battling NF2 most of my life. This rare genetic disorder has affected me in so many ways.
2010, this year is the start of a new decade of endless possibilities, and yet another chapter of our lives. Over the span of the last two decades I have overcome my fair share of medical obstacles.
It has been over 15 years since the first time my head rested on the operating table for a tumor removal surgery.
10 years since I was diagnosed with Neurofibromatosis type 2 (NF2), a benign genetic disorder that causes tumors to grow throughout my central nervous system.
10 years since my first brain surgery to remove the larger of the bilateral acoustic neuroma’s compressing my brain stem, leaving me completely deaf in my left ear.
2 years ago I decided to give up the rest of my hearing with the removal Acoustic Neuroma on the right side that had been causing intolerable head pressure.
As of January this year I’m came out of remission; both acoustic neuroma’s are aggressively growing back. Fluid was found trapped in my brain that needed to be drained with the surgical placement of a shunt, which took place last month. The head pressure’s been intense, and it’s affecting my quality of life.
Recently I was in Ann Arbor for my post shunt surgery appointment. The CT scans of my brain look good. The fluid is draining from my head, so simply put the shunt is doing its job and my surgeons at University of Michigan kick ass. This is where I would tell you the good stuff planned to come from what I learned at the appointment, but instead there’s a big “TO BE CONTINUED…” just like the cliff hanger endings to leave you in suspense. Completely serious, and the shitty thing about is that it’s a cliffhanger for me too.
Even though medically for me what’s to come is uncertain, I’m going to continue to keep my head held high and be inspired by life! Will you please honor me by making a contribution to my cause?
Donating through this website is simple, fast and totally secure. It is also the most efficient way to support my fundraising efforts.
Many thanks for your support -- and don't forget to forward this to anyone who you think might want to donate too!
Peace, love, rock on!
Jessica Stone
www.lifeinspiresme.com