Kristen Kuiper

Kristen is in 8th grade at Spirit Lake Middle School in Spirit Lake Iowa. 
On the morning of 12-7-17 at about 5:40am she woke up with back, neck, and shoulder pain. She then lost feeling in her arms and chest. She was rushed to the Emergency room by her family where her breathing became shallow and labored.  
She was then flown by helicopter to Avera McKennan pediatric ICU where she has been unable to breath on her own and lost all mobility from the neck down. She is currently in critical but stable condition hooked to a ventilator to breath for her. 
After many many tests the Dr says she has a small stroke at the base of the brain where the spinal chord and brain meet. The stroke was in such a spot it has affected her respiratory and motor functions.  She can only communicate by shaking her head yes or no. 

Kristen was your typical 14yo girl at the time of her stroke. She was involved in band, choir,  dance, and very active with her church group. 

As of yesterday 12-9 we saw the first of God's miracles. She was able to wiggle her fingers on her right hand. As you can imagine we were all so excited for her.

This morning 12-10 She had more movement in her fingers and was able to lift her hand off the bed using her wrist. She was not done with that, she motioned us with her eyes to look at her right leg and she was moving it back and forth. Praise God for the miracle he is performing on her. 

She is a very strong girl with a smile that will melt your heart. She has touched so many people in our community and even surrounding communities with her dance and voice. 

I will update this page when I am able.
Thank you for all your support and prayers
Tracy Kuiper