Kelsey’s Story

Site created on July 6, 2023

Kelsey suffered from a ruptured AVM (arteriovenous malformation) in her brain on Sunday evening, July 2nd, and thought she was experiencing a migraine headache.  She presented with stroke-like symptoms the next morning and was taken to the emergency room where a stroke was confirmed as well as a brain bleed due to the ruptured AVM.  She was quickly transferred to St. Luke's hospital in Kansas City where they confirmed the cause of stroke as the ruptured AVM and quickly ushered her into brain surgery to remove a large part of her skull to relieve pressure on her brain that was endangering her life and the life of her 24 week baby in her womb.  The surgery was a success and she is currently intubated and in deep sedation to avoid any trauma or damage to the brain area.  There was another surgical procedure performed a few days later that was done with the intent to severely reduce blood flow to the area of the AVM which also went according to the surgeon's plan.  Kelsey and baby were both stable following the procedure.  The family is very thankful for the good surgical results to this point and for the extremely talented doctors and nursing staff charged with her care.  Every day is a precious miracle.

Newest Update

August 10, 2023

Journal entry by Kent Kellenberger —

Kelsey was released from rehab on Saturday!  We had a family vacation scheduled six months ago for a Branson, MO trip and we actually were able to make it Monday and Tuesday and came home on Wednesday.  It was good for Kelsey to have the socialization with family and to have a lot of support around her.  She is now home and we are back to somewhat of a normal rhythm.  She will have outpatient rehab for the next couple of months.  Thanks again for all your support and prayers!  We appreciate it greatly!

Read More of the journal titled "August 10, 2023"
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