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Christy ’s Story

Site created on January 3, 2020

My beautiful cousin Christy has been married to her wonderful, supportive husband, Jeff, for 22 years.  They have 3 beautiful children, Hannah, Ella, and Zachary.  Christy has dedicated her entire career to educating elementary children in the greater Omaha area and has won the 104.5 Star teacher of the month. She is dearly loved by family, friends, co-workers, and students.  Christy enjoys music, Starbucks, and spending time with her family.  She also loves a good 80’s movie!

Christy was diagnosed with a spinal tumor 7 years ago.  The tumor is located in the thoracic area of her spine.  At the time of the initial diagnosis it was determined that it was a benign, slow growing tumor.  Due to the size of the tumor and the location, the doctors decided it was best to provide conservative treatment until symptoms worsened.   Due to the complexity of her medical needs Christy has sought treatment at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, MN, which is a 5 hour drive from Omaha.

Over the years, the tumor has slowly grown and Christy’s pain and neurological complications have gradually increased.   She has continued to work and take care of her family while dealing with significant pain, nerve damage, and weakening of her lower extremities.

In the past year, her symptoms have worsened to the point in which the experts at Mayo have determined that surgical removal of the tumor is necessary.  This is a very serious and complicated surgery.   The doctors also determined that the tumor is an astrocytoma, Grade II, and radiation therapy will be necessary after the surgery.  The length of recovery is undetermined at this point in time.  She will need physical and occupational therapy to get stronger.  Christy is strong and resilient I am confident she will get through rehabilitation and radiation with flying colors.

Surgery is scheduled for Friday, January 10th. Christy will be off work for an undetermined amount of time.  There are significant medical, travel & lodging costs accumulating not to mention lost wages while she is off work.  So many people have reached out wanting to help.   A Go Fund Me Page has been set up to support Christy and her family.

Please keep Christy in your prayers, we are grateful for the love and support of family and friends. God Bless!

Newest Update

Journal entry by Janell Badami — Feb 12, 2020

Hello! Christy has worked hard in rehab for the past month! She had a few set backs with influenza and kidney stones. She is feeling better and ready for the next step in her journey. She is going home tomorrow!!! She is able to walk small distances with a walker but will need a wheelchair for activities outside the home. She still has no feeling from the armpits down, but she can walk short distances. She said it feels like she is floating on air.

She gets very fatigued after a day of therapy and taking care of basic needs. She will continue with outpatient therapy 3-4 days days per week. It is unknown at this time how much function she will get back, but we are excited to have her home and celebrate the progress she has made so far. Please keep her in your prayers as she transitions to home and continues with her recovery and rehabilitation. Thank you everyone for the love and support you have provided Christy and her family. 😍❤️

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