All Smiles

I had an amazing appointment with my awesome neurologist Dr. Joseph F. Drazkowski at Mayo Hospital here in Phoenix, AZ. I was able to walk in with such cheer and smiles… which comforted HIM BIG-after we hugged he was able to sit down in relief!! Relief of no seizures this time!! No awful side effects or loss of sight or memory etc. It is honestly amazing how much the doctors heart truly is in it for the patients as well-which we always need to remember. I have seen this awesome neurologist for over 8 years, been thru so many “answers” together, that didn’t fall thru-yet we kept pushing forward, as Drazkowski knew we’d find an answer! He always had great positivity, and I am ever so grateful!!

We were able to share stories of what was going on in the eight weeks of recovery for me. What all I was doing. How quick I recovered. How exciting this is. Compared it to the 2 prior resections, in amazement!! We shared time with family during holidays- (which is always a fun story!!) He loves to see if I do make it thru family SEIZURE FREE!! We all know that can be stressful!!! I sure do!! It was great talks of past times I was so thankful for- Jesus guiding me to call him the night I overdosed so much I shouldn’t be here. He very much took care of that. This is one neurologist that truly never gives up on anything. Which is why when Obamacare begins to light up, and will show any change in seeing him, or his pay-anything… my blood begins to boil!!

So to end our talk about that… Obamacare-and how all the docs at Mayo would like him to kindly change his mind and focus on happiness of foreign countries or getting oil prices back down, whatever… he had to show me one of the new annoying implemented papers for it…. AT EVERY APPOINTMENT I am supposed to sign this paper that yaps about how many times the doc washed his hands-TWICE, answered questions, had on jacket- etc…. etc.. Even have a nurse that scopes the floors to interrupt and ask herself to double-check, like a cold call. Just thought this was ridiculous! People know how to call Patient Care, and my neurologist took care of me with one complaint I had about the doc prior him one time two years ago!! This is childish.

I have grown up… haven’t you? More paper, more trees, more trash. God only knows what this will do with the Obamacare even more.

Either which way, without it fully in control, last Tuesday, I had a marvelous follow-up with my neurologist Dr. Drazkowksi, who means the world in neurology, psychology, and care to me. I will not gamble that!! The White House looks like they need repetitive letters!!

Blessings all!! Pray you all are well!! Those who aren’t– Mayo is amazing!!!

In His Love,

Heather Siebens  @AliveinMe  @EpilepsyCures

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Seizure FREE

Who out there has been praying--asking--begging to be seizure free? Whether several months, years, decades... I know so many. I sure have been one of them. 
I was born with epilepsy basically. Five months old was the first, one year old was the medicated time forward. All my childhood, they were NEVER controlled. But they were a type that had a HUGE aura, warning, to tell me when to be in a safe place. As a child who is busy, living on the edge, that was a blessing from God. They were under control completely for the first time when I was 17-22. Then about 22, due to stress in my first marriage, my seizures began to change some--from atypical absence seizures--to complex partial seizures. And then I got pregnant...and they really hit a doozy. Talk about worsening. BUT ALL FOR AN AMAZING GIFT...my child Tory...never would I change a thing.
Thru all that, and a rough marriage, led to multiple brain resections. For that I am ever grateful. I learned the hard way how to find Jesus after my first brain surgery...worth every bit of suffering to find out THE REASON WE ARE HERE! Then, when found Him.. struggled thru addictions to numb pain--until I REALLY REALIZED it was to give ALL TO HIM... HE HAS ALL PLANS... that was when all things began to unfold for good!! In hard times, HE BROUGHT GREAT RESULTS...with trust and patience!! And I am forever grateful.
I was able to reach out help others thru my tough times, and learning. I was able to keep my light burning bright FOR HIM--thru ALL CIRCUMSTANCES... knowing He has awesome plans for you thru ALL-- ALL... just hold on tight with TRUST.. love Him and be obedient! HE HAS MORE TO COME!
And with all our stuff we touch peoples lives... some we know, some we don't. We help bring others to our Lord and Savior. We help others turn back to Him. We have others begin to wonder!! Planting of the Seed! We shouldn't dwell on tough times...be glad! As for He has plans for it all-- for HIS GLORY!! Be honored!!
My 3rd brain surgery just amazed me!! The surgery didn't. How HE watched and guided the surgeons, had everyone praying, kept everyone calm...HE AMAZED ME!!! Awake brain surgery. Only Christ could have someone be like me... so CALM and excited to be awake during brain surgery. He just amazed me... and I am sure ASTOUNDED my neurosurgeon, for me being so laid back and calm!! He is one amazing God.. why worry!!??
Know... He was and is there every step of the way. I KNOW THIS FACE TO FACE FOR IT ALL... AND DURING AWAKE BRAIN SURGERY!!! As I sit here typing seizure free still... I am twice as grateful. He just amazes me more and more every day... but I do know, prayers never stop. And I am here for answers, and prayers for all. Know that... @AliveinMe and @EpilepsyCures As for I am forever grateful!


Blessings... know HE IS WITH YOU, ALWAYS!


In His Grip,


Heather


Isaiah 58:11 The LORD will guide you continually, giving you water when you are dry and restoring your strength. You will be like a well-watered garden, like an ever-flowing spring.

Heather's Journey - Day 7

It's Superbowl Sunday! Not that Heather could care less...but I think there is some symbolism and irony in today. Congratulations to the Saints for winning their first Superbowl...job well done.
As exciting as the Super Bowl is I know there are many more important things in life than football. As Heather sits in her hospital bed she continues to remain upbeat about her present situation and positive about her future. Last night was a difficult night..so much so that Heather now has a dedicated nurse on call 24/7 for her pain issues. The Dr's want to help control her pain so they can begin to analyze her brain activity. Nothing further can be done until she has more seizure activity so a surgical gameplan can be developed. So as difficult as this is to write..please pray for seizures. Pray that they will identify the exact location that can be removed and pray that section is resectable without negative effects for Heather. With God all things are possible...we are confident in that.
As I was watching the Superbowl tonight..I contemplated about what a "Saint" really means...According to Websters Dictionary a "saint" is: "A person of great holiness". Although many of us have "holy" moments... The only person I know who of great holiness was Jesus Christ. As earthly sinners we are far from saints...however, through the amazing power, grace and mercy of our Lord we have the ability to put on Christ and be His hands and feet on this side of heaven. Our "gameplan" should be that of a saint. I know neither Heather nor I are a saint..boy do we have stories...:), but it is our goal to be more "saint-like" and that is only possible through the power of our Lord. Saints also usually have to go through pain and suffering in their life. Jesus said we must "take up our cross daily and follow Him"..Heather talks about the Apostle Paul and the fact that he had a "thorn" that he had to deal with daily in his life. That "thorn" is never really identified..but despite his thorn, he impacted the world for his Savior. Heather wants to be a Paul...and she is willing to live with a thorn if that is the will of God.
I know that Heather truly appreciates the amazing encouragement and outpouring of love from so many across the world. Please continue your encouragement. It means the world to both Heather and I...But also please join us in playing the game...develop your gameplan...join the team and do your best to become a saint. Individually we can make some good plays, but together we can win the SuperBowl!


Until tomorrow...Blessings from Heather and I. We love you.

Heather's Journey Day 4 & 5

First off...please accept my apology for not getting an update done last night. In all honesty..I got caught up in my daughter's homework and was too tired to sit down and blog when we were done..So tonight will be a combination of Day 4 and 5.
Heather has been experiencing more pain than the last surgery. Not really certain why..but it probably has to do with the extra time Dr. Zimmerman spent trying to separate her Dura from the surface of the brain. Yesterday Heather spent most of the day sleeping...they did remove her IV's and put in a PICC in her bicep. All I can say is OUCH! She was telling me that they have to monitor the insertion of the PICC very closely..it is a dangerous procedure if not done correctly. I remember Heather's last PICC procedure. The hospital had to get my permission to do a PICC because of the risk. Heather was still incoherent and I was her Power of Attorney. Fortunately everything went well this time..except she did mention that the PICC line got too close to her heart and it made her heart beat over 150 beats/min...so they had to back it out and start over!! You may have also noticed from the pictures Heather posted that someone got into her room and tried to steal her computer...After a major fight, Heather won...but the intruder left her with a black eye. I would not want to see what the intruder looks like!! No one gets between Heather and her computer! :)
Today when I got to the hospital I was pleasantly surprised to find a glowing Heather..sitting up and typing away on her computer! Praise the Lord! She looked and sounded fantastic. The pain is still throbbing in her head...but it was controlled a bit better. We were able to eat dinner together. Heather has not been eating much..so to see her eat made me smile.;) We had a very enjoyable time with each other..took some pictures, talked about the future and even had a few laughs. That is actually not a good thing since laughing makes her hurt more..but from my standpoint it was fun...and in reality I know she enjoyed it as well. It's funny that when I look back on Heather's hospital stays in the past..many of the memorable nights are of us sitting together, holding hands and laughing. There are a few scary moments as well..but fortunately we have been blessed and Heather is always sucha positive patient that the good memories outway the bad.
The Dr's are going to begin to ween her off her epilepsy med's tonight. They want to begin the process of stressing her brain and reviewing the data from the probes in her brain. Fortunately both Dr.Zimmerman and Dr. Drazkowski are working this weekend..so she can actually progress with her treatment rather than just sitting in the hospital all weekend waiting for the Dr's to return!
I stand amazed and feel very fortunate to have the opportunity to interact with so many amazing people Heather has as friends. As I'm sure Heather has mentioned..I am a bit introverted when it comes to new relationships...but this experience has really opened my eyes to the wonders of fellowship and God's perfect love. I look forward to furthering my relationships with you all and pray Heather and I will be able to personally meet many of you and express our deep appreciation for your sincere care for our family.
May God grant us all the ability to support each other in both good times and bad. We are a family through Him.


Until tomorrow...Blessings to you all.


Christian Siebens  @flyingchristian

Day 2 - Heather's Epilepsy Journey

As I sat in Heather's room last night watching her drift in and out of sleep and witnessing the pain she was in...it made me think about Psalm 40. Many of you may know Heather's story..but she has gone through alot in her life. Most of it without knowing the love, peace and comfort of Jesus. Her journey is still in progress and like all journey's...sometimes you have to go through dark places to find the promised land.
Funny thing is..although Heather is in serious pain..I truly believe she would say this is not a dark place...this is the path she wants..one that she feels she must pass through to reach the promised land of better health. Heather does not better health for her however...she would say she wants to be a better Mom, a better Wife and better witness for Jesus. Sure she would love the freedom better health would bring for herself..and there may be a little selfish desire within her...who wouldn't! But, honestly..Heather is about helping others..it is what drives her. I pray God grants her this wish.
Today was a day of pain. Pretty much all day. Heather has had to have pain medicine administered every hour or she was in tears. Pain and Nausea medicine. However thru the pain, there were some victories. We were able to get her out of ICU and into her Neurological room this afternoon. During that move, God allowed her to be relatively pain free and even smile and talk for awhile. I think most of you saw the pictures! She is an amazingly strong woman..but she has a smile that is infectious. She also had an opportunity to meet with her favorite Dr. of all-time. Her personal Neurologist Dr. Joseph Drazkowski. Fortunately Heather loves me and Dr. Draz is married..or she would leave me in an instant! ;) Just kidding. Dr. Drazkowski is the perfect Dr. for her. He listens to her with a kind heart, spends time with her when needed and cares like she was his own daughter. We are blessed to have such an incredible Dr. leading Heather's epilepsy journey. It sounds like they plan on starting Heather's testing Thursday. Pray her pain starts to ease and that she is able to rest tonight.
And do me a favor...read Psalm 40.


God is Great and so are all of you....
Until tomorrow...
In His Grip,
Christian Siebens @flyingchristian for wife @AliveinMe / @EpilepsyCures and our AMAZING LORD AND SAVIOR-JESUS CHRIST!

Heather's Journey - Day 1

Heather has been in the hospital for 24 hours...and the journey continues. I will do my best to summarize the events and my thoughts for each day.


Day 1 - Feb 1, 2010


She was in great spirits heading into the hospital..In usual Heather fashion her sense of humor was strong about the entire situation and she appeared to have zero concern over the events to unfold. She is a strong woman..with a strong faith. I admire her so...
The surgery was scheduled for 3 hours with Dr. Zimmerman. The same Dr. that has performed her other two surgeries. I left her side at 10:00am and she was off with a smile. Her father joined me in the waiting area for a couple of hours and he was able to get my mind off of the things unfolding for Heather. I tried to do my best to keep all of you updated via my iTouch...I hope it made sense. This was the first time I have ever used this device. :) I am not quite as 'techy" as my wife..I guess I am just too old. :) I was finally called into a conference with Dr. Zimmerman around 3:00pm. His first words were..."It didn't go as well as I would have hoped". Not a good way to start the conversation. Apparently he had a difficult time dealing with the scarring from the previous surgery's. He wanted to insert 4 grids in her temporal and frontal lobes..but was only able to complete 3 of the 4. The Dura around the surface of the brain at her last surgical site would not separate from the brain itself..he told me he attempted to separate this for sometime..but gave up when it became clear he could cause permanent damage to the brain. He "hoped" he had not caused any damage in this process...but that was unclear since she was still recovering from surgery and not coherent yet. He left the meeting to go back to her and conduct some post op tests.
I must say the next 3 hours were painful as I pondered if her brain functions were damaged in anyway and if the lack of inserting all the grids would affect their ability to do the "true" surgery later in this journey. Finally i was able to see her around 5;30pm..which lifted a weight off my shoulders. She looked great. Minimal bruising..just a bit puffy..all her senses seemed to be working with the exception of speaking..however, I believe that was more due to the sore throat she has from the operation breathing tube than anything else.


Now that I have been with her all night..she is speaking fine..in pain..but it appears there was no damage done in surgery. Her pain meds are only lasting about an hour and her left ankle is hurting for some reason...other than that her vitals appear good. I am being told that by the end of today she would be moved from ICU and into a room on the neurological floor of the hospital.


I stand amazed at the incredible outpouring of love, concern and prayers for Heather and our family from each of you. Our faith is strong and I know the perfect will of Jesus will be glorified thru this journey...however, having the love of so many sure helps us draw continued strength.


On behalf of Heather, myself and Tory...may God Bless each of you.
In His Grip,
Christian Siebens @flyingchristian for @AliveinMe / @EpilepsyCures