The verdict is out! News from Mayo Clinic

Here is the news we all have been waiting for.... drum roll please...(this is the short version)

1. Jeff does not have MS!

2. Jeff does not have a seizure disorder!

3. Mayo clinic has determined that Jeff has continued vascular complications following his stroke he had in November. The most recent MRI of his head showed an increase in white matter lesions on his brain. Jeff's subsequent right sided numbness, weakness, cognitive changes and fatigue are a residual of his initial stroke.

The good news is that there are not any new active stroke areas on his brain! He has been given the green light to drive again and increase his activities as his energy dictates.

There is great reason to praise God!! No surgery! No MS! So watch out Mexico!...We are coming home!

Thank you all for your faithfulness in prayer, your encouragement, your support and for following this lengthy saga.

We love you! Ineke and Jeff

Mayo Clinic Update on Jeff

Mayo Clinic Update

Greetings from extremely hot Phoenix (111 degrees)

Here is the latest update on Jeff:

Monday: Appointment in the financial department at Mayo Clinic (always fun)

Tuesday: Appointment with the Neurologist. He reviewed all the studies which we obtained in Mexico After a very lengthy appointment, interview and exam; he determined that many of the Mexican studies were “sub-standard” and recommended a repeat and several other studies before he could make a diagnosis. Thereafter, we needed to wait on the financial committee to determine if we could qualify for financial assistance. The wait began…

Wednesday: We called the financial department and they informed us that our case was still in review. Late morning Mayo Clinic called us and told us that we didn't fit the criteria for financial assistance to cover the necessary tests and suggested we go elsewhere. We left discouraged. Two hours later...we got a call and they said that they reconsidered our case and the committee gave the green light. Mayo clinic is waiving all the costs of the tests and consultations... (estimated between $20-29,000.00)! WooHOO!

Thursday: (so far) Jeff has had a repeat MRI of his head, cervical and thoracic spine and a cerebral vascular MRI. He may see the Cerebro-Vascular Neurologist later today. Tomorrow he is scheduled for another EEG and a lumbar puncture. Monday he will have his final consultation with the original Neurologist to review all the findings.

Things we are learning:
1. God is awesome!
2. We have a lot to learn about faith.
3. The Lord has given us great friends (many new and unexpected) who have helped, encouraged and provided for our needs.
4. Regardless of the outcome, the process has been incredibly educational as to God’s grace and authority.
5. We are humbled and realize that the best place to be is on our knees.

Thank you everyone for your prayers! Keep praying! We aren’t done yet!

Love, Ineke and Jeff

We are on our way to Mayo Clinic!

What’s up with Jeff?

Here is what we know…

1. Jeff has a scheduled appointment with Mayo Clinic MS/Neurology Department Tuesday, August 24 in Scottsdale, Arizona

2. A brief history: Since November 2009, Jeff has had neurological symptoms that were evaluated in Ensenada, Mexico. Initially, we believed that Jeff had a minor stroke. In April 2010 he had new alarming neurological symptoms accompanied by extreme fatigue which have progressed to this date. Further studies were done and after a consultation and review by a visiting Mayo Clinic Medical-Mission Team in Ensenada, Mexico in July, 2010, it was determined that Jeff probably has MS. The Mayo Clinic medical mission team graciously set up an appointment in Scottsdale, Arixona.

3. We have recieved 2 conflicting diagnosis here in Mexico which included seizure disorder and multiple strokes.

4. We have obtained imaging and laboratory studies in Mexico. Through prior communication with the doctors at the Mayo Clinic, we have obtained many of the necessary tests done here in Mexico. We will be arriving with CT scans, MRI of the head, MRI of cervical and thoracic spine, EEG, cardiac echo, carotid ultrasound and lab work. Jeff also had a lumbar puncture; however, the incorrect tests were performed.

5. His recent MRI of his cervical and thoracic spine is also suggestive of MS and shows significant impingement on two areas of the cervical spine and lesions on the thoracic spine as well.

• 6. We need your prayers
  • Healing if it is God’s will
  • Clear answers
  • Affordable treatment strategies
  • Travel mercies
  • Minimal further testing
  • Finances for the trip
  • Peace about the process and results
  
  Updates soon! We will keep you posted throughout the process!
  
  Thank you all for your thoughts, prayers and assistance!
  

PS: The spring and summer season was booming with groups again this year! The Lord was at work changing lives here in Mexico! Our last group just left yesterday and we are now gearing up for MTI (Agua Viva Ministries seminary) to start on August 30!!

Please also be praying for Hannah and Tim as they both are starting Multnomah University on August 30. We love and miss them desperately!

We love you all!!! Ineke and Jeff