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Plot Twist

PLOT TWIST!

Kim is out of her first surgery—but things didn’t go quite as originally planned. Instead of performing interventions today, the surgeon chose to map sections of Kim’s vascular system, which means… she’ll now need TWO additional surgeries instead of just one.

The good news? Because today’s procedure was less invasive than expected, Kim was able to discharge from the hospital and return to their rental stay. Her pain level is around a 6 out of 10, and she’s dealing with severe swelling.

What We Know:

While detailed imaging and results from today’s mapping are still pending, Dr. Huey shared some key insights:

  1. The Left Internal Jugular Vein—previously reconstructed—has started to scar, once again impairing blood flow from the brain.

  3. The Right Internal Jugular Vein is fully compressed by bony structures. This is not due to scar tissue or clots.

These findings explain the increasing pressure in Kim’s brain, the painful swelling of her face and neck, and the pressure on cranial nerves and surrounding tissue.

The Plan:

On Wednesday, all four surgeons will review the imaging and surgical mapping. Based on that meeting, they’ll finalize a plan for Friday’s surgery—though Kim and Jason likely won’t know the full plan until after it’s finished.

Here’s what we do know:

  1. They will work to relieve the compression on the Right Internal Jugular Vein by removing bony structures. While stenting isn’t currently expected, it hasn’t been ruled out.

  3. They will stent the Left Internal Jugular Vein to combat scarring and restore proper blood flow.

These interventions are critical. Dr. Huey explained that a third surgery is likely, because the brain itself can’t be properly treated until stable outflow is restored through both jugular veins.

How They're Holding Up:

Understandably, this unexpected turn is emotionally and physically draining for Kim and Jason. More surgeries than expected. A longer healing timeline. Bigger financial strain. Uncertainty about what’s next. It’s a lot.

But there’s one thing they can count on: us.

Let’s rally around them—keep Kim in your thoughts and prayers, and help however you can. Share their story. Donate if you’re able. Spread the word. Let them feel our strength behind them as they face the next step.

Let’s hit the next MATCH GOAL of $3,500 by Friday! TOGETHER, we’ve got this.

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