Dawn had been experiencing what she described as a migraine headache for much of the week, beginning November 4. Joel drove her to Fairview Southdale ER with a severe headache, accompanied by vomiting, on Thursday around 7:30PM , November 9. A CT Scan showed a cyst and fluid build-up, resulting in increased pressure, in the brain. A couple of hours later, a small incision and hole were made in her head and a tube was inserted to drain excess fluid from ventricles in her brain, thus reducing the pressure. She was then transported to the University of Minnesota Research Hospital for surgery where Joel caught back up with her, around midnight . The next day, she had some time to spend with close family before surgery.
Surgery to remove the colloid cyst was performed on the following Saturday morning and lasted about 2 hours. Post OR recovery took another 1-1/2 to 2 hours. The cyst is likely benign but a biopsy will be performed to confirm this.
Family awaited Dawn’s return to her room after surgery. It was a very happy reunion, and it wasn’t long before we were all treated to her sense of humor, which remained in tact despite the surgery. Long term memories are still intact as well. Due to the location of the cyst, short term memory is currently slightly impacted but we pray for this to get better as the days progress, this is totally expected as well. It is incredible the amount of skill and clear communication everyone at the U of M NICU (Neurological Intensive Care Unit) possesses!
Step-by-step, Dawn is well on her way to a full recovery. We are all so grateful for the prayers that have been offered up for her. Please continue to keep Dawn and her family in your prayers, as they all travel that road to full recovery together.
CaringBridge is a nonprofit social network dedicated to helping family and friends communicate with and support loved ones during a health journey. Learn more about CaringBridge.