Josie was a healthy child until she was 2 years old, when she began having seizures. Her seizures increased gradually until her seizures were the new normal in our lives, her seizures continued to increase until she was having hundreds of seizures a day.  She was diagnosed with Rasmussen's Encephalitis and shortly after her 3rd birthday, Josie had a right functional hemispherectomy, removal of her right side of her brain.  

 

Rasmussen's encephalitis is believed to be an autoimmune disease in which immune system cells enter the brain and cause inflammation and damage. This is an extremely rare, progressive inflammatory disorder, characterized by frequent and severe seizures, loss of motor skills and speech, dementia and mental deterioration. The disease usually affects only one hemisphere of the brain, but in Josie's case it had affected both hemispheres. Josie has undergone intense rehab to increase function to her left side of her body and to heal her brain.  We have found that the most advanced, highest achieving treatments are the treatments we now offer. We know without God’s answer to prayer, Josie would not be here!

 

Today Josie is a happy, successful woman who enjoys reading, coloring, watching a good movie and enjoying a cup of coffee in her free time.  She is a proud dog mom to Buddy.  We are very proud to have Josie on the Montana Spine and Neurodevelopment Center team.  Many days, you will find Josie and Buddy at the front desk to welcome you as you walk through the door.  

 

Josie is just one of many stories that inspire our team. Below are a few other testimonials from families that we get the privilege of helping.