For My Morgan

My idea in writing on this medium has always been to share what I have learned in Vision Therapy with the hope that someone finds it useful. It remains important to me to be open and honest about my lessons, whether they put me in a positive light – or not – in hopes that above all else, the human side of things shines through. Your feedback has always been welcomed, and even when tough to hear; appreciated, as it always presents another opportunity to learn.

In the past, I have used this platform to help others in need, whether by helping them to raise money for a good cause, to bring awareness to a challenging situation, or even to just to show there are people in the world who care. And while I am more than willing to stand up and promote others who need help, asking others for help for my own benefit has never been easy. Please understand what follows will be one of the toughest segments ever produced by my fingers and keyboard.

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About 18 months ago, my daughter, Morgan, was diagnosed with Superior Mesenteric Artery Syndrome (SMAS), which essentially limits her ability to digest food and benefit from its nutrients. The duodenum, which is the tube that exits the stomach and shuttles food into our small intestine becomes pinched off, making it near impossible for food to pass. After a scarily rapid loss of weight (more than 35 pounds in three months with no medical explanation) and the resultant cardiac instability, Morgan was hospitalized for close to six weeks in a hospital in Denver which helps to diagnose and manage such situations related to digestion.

Following her hospital stay, Morgan (who is now a senior at Rice Univerity in Houston, TX) endured a feeding tube for close to six months as her body rebuilt its nutrient stores and she was able to return to college to complete her junior year. When she was not in class, she spent her time hooked up to a machine which pumped nutrients into her stomach. Morgan had the tube removed a few days before Christmas, and has been working to find some semblance of a normal life ever since. Her life these days is a combination of college courses, grad school applications, managing her caloric intake while enduring a constant nausea, and doctor visits. Lots and lots of doctor visits.

Earlier this summer, we were able to find a surgeon who is willing to attempt a corrective procedure. We are hopeful Morgan will be able to have the surgery in August, but a lot will depend on the stability of her current health, and the ability of funds to pay for her medical needs both before and after the surgery. Her medical insurance is reasonable, but the “patient responsiblity” portions are piling up and although we hope for a full recovery, unfortunately our ability to meet the financial needs will eventually dictate her course of care.

We have started a GoFundMe in hopes of easing some of the financial burden. If you are inclined to assist, either by contribution or by sharing the link, please know you are appreciated beyond measure.