Carissa’s Story

Site created on March 23, 2011

On March 18, 2011, Carissa had a test called MRA that diagnosed her with Moyamoya.  Moyamoya disease is a rare, progressive cerebrovascular disorder caused by blocked arteries at the base of the brain in an area called the basal ganglia. The name “moyamoya” means “puff of smoke” in Japanese and describes the look of the tangle of tiny vessels formed to compensate for the blockage.   If you ask most doctors about this disease they will admit they have never heard of it.

Newest Update

Thank you!

Journal entry by Carissa McLellan —

I can not thank everyone enough for following along during this time and for your kind words, support, prayers, and thoughts. I have been doing very well since my surgery and am half way to having all of my restrictions removed.

The surgery was a very difficult decision to make, but I am so glad that I did. In roughly 6 months I will check back in with the surgeon and find out if the graft took and increased blood flow! 

Fortunately, this did not cause me to be delayed at all on my schooling and I am happy to say that I will be finishing out my last semester of college starting at the end of the month. Again, thank you! 
Read More of the journal titled "Thank you!"
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