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I continually give thanks for those who have continued to believe with me for Kelsey’s total healing. We have felt your prayers and affirmations for us. Kelsey has been in constant, pain since August 7th. Some have inquired about the exact cause of her pain: In short, she was diagnosed with an autoimmune disease (scleroderma) at the age of 8. Scleroderma creates an over production of collagen with hardening under the skin. It also causes inflammation much like arthritis around the joints and can also causes significant soft tissue swelling. Certain types of scleroderma can cause internal swelling and hardening affecting the internal organs. It appears that Kelsey has experienced swelling in her chest cavity around her ribs and lungs. We are not certain if this is related to the scleroderma or a secondary medical diagnosis at this time. The pain remains constant and when it's intense she describes it as if it feels like something is crushing her chest. At it's worst it comes with shortness of breath because the pain prevents her from expanding her lungs fully. Even normal breaths hurt to fully expand.
I've watched Kelsey shoulder through Scleroderma over the past 9 years. In spite of how it has affected her body she has remained strong, confident… going after every opportunity possible to live a fulfilled and productive life. Kelsey has maintained a scholastic average ranging from 3.5 - 4.0 through out her academic experience. This is Kelsey’s senior year with aspirations to go to college to study journalism. Kelsey is active in her community as a staff writer for Vox Teen Communications and serves on The Ronald McDonald House Charities Teen Council. She has huge heart, especially for kids. After staying at a Ronald McDonald House after one of her surgeries, Kelsey was so moved by the children and families there, she left with the desire to somehow give back. As I write this, words that describe my daughter come to mind…Kelsey: bubbling with ideas, infectious personality, kind, huge heart, creative, strong, quick thinker, loves to cook, LOVES to sing, loves color and bold statement! Likes to giggle, loves to laugh. Loves friends and family. Wants to “experience” life! Feels less than all she’s been created to be, when it seems like it’s passing her by.
In spite of medical treatment, which has been limited to narcotics and steroids, which still doesn’t take the pain away totally unless we opt for drugs like morphine (which she refuses and I support her). Narcotics are not the answer… it wipes her out, leaving her lethargic and still, not totally taking the pain away. Other medications to reduce the swelling and inflammation have not worked. Since the pain began, Kelsey has been unable to attend school full time and still actively trying to finish her senior year and apply to college. Her quality of life has been ripped by this experience- as you can imagine, how being in a constant state of pain can affect your total nervous system as well as your mental and physical well-being. I am currently treating Kelsey with herbs, juicing, and an anti-inflammatory diet, which has helped some, but the pain remains constant. She tires easily and now only able to walk short distances. Even getting dressed in the morning takes a considerable amount of effort.
Kelsey needs her life back.
In seeking relief that does not include narcotics and pain medication I have found a treatment, offered by a certified and licensed Dr. here in Atlanta with a well respected practice - however because it does not involve “medicine” or “medical procedures” insurance list will not pay for it. The cost for Kelsey’s treatment is $4200.
Giving my all to have my baby back…fully functioning and pursing life with passion, pain free, please join me in raising funds for Kelsey’s treatment.
We are grateful for your love and your kindness. We are open to other fundraising ideas, donor matching, and proceeds from events, parties, walks – we’re open and appreciative.
We are expecting to move quickly to get her treatment under way as soon as possible.
With gratitude and love,
Kelsey’s mama
Ari
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