It all started 3 years ago. Robert could not ingest regular food ( burgers, steak, rice, chips even, etc). So he scheduled a doctors appointment. He was later diagnosed with a serve case of Dyshagia (Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia) means it takes more time and effort to move food or liquid from your mouth to your stomach. Dysphagia may also be associated with pain. In some cases, swallowing may be impossible), which is not common at his age of 26 . Dyshagia and High acid in his stomach was causing his esophagus to close up. 3 years ago it was measured at 7-8mm wide. A normal range for your esophagus is near or around 20 mm wide.
Ok, Great lets fix it and open it up! First esophagus dilation went fine. They were only able to open the esophagus 1 mm, because of bleeding and not wanting to tear it. If any one knows or has experienced an Upper GI its not the most fun. A long tube goes down your throat and a small ballon at the tip expands to open your throat/esophagus.
The night after the procedure Robert got very sick and hit a temp of 102 and some other concerning issues due to the procedure. The sickness lasted for a few days, it was not fun. After the effects and sickness wore off Robert remained werey about the next procedure. He still had many more to go to open it up to at least 12mm. He became nervous/scared for the next appointment, who wouldn’t?!?! He called the doctor and asked if he could remain at 9mm and still eat fine. The doctor gave the ok as long as food would be ingested. So he decided to wait a bit because things seem to be a little bit better.
Current Day
Robert for the past 2 years has been pushed to be on a soft diet due to his sever case of Dyshagia. He wanted this no longer so he went in Monday 5/18/2015 due to not being able to swallow water! The Doctors set another procedure. This Wendsday 5/20/2015 after his procedure he recived very alarming information. If he would have waiting any longer to have a dilation he may have not made it. His esophagus was measured at 1mm, possibly smaller they said?!?! What! How do you eat? How do you live? The doctor was in shock! Again at his age still pretty rare for this diagnosis. The doctor dilated and open it a bit. However he has to go back in a few more times. Next procedure is scheduled in early June. This will be a long road for him. He just graduated with a Computer Science degree, has two kids and is the BEST husband. I do not know what I would do without him!
Robert did not want this web page and to share his story. I disagree, this was life threating and has affected his family . After every procedure requires recovery time (2-3 days). His insurance denied his prescription .(super expensive). Work needs to be taken off and lives have to be rescheduled. This is a long scary road . I ask for any help whether it be prayers, financial, or just knowledge . Things can happen at anytime. Please keep the prayers coming . I thank you so very much, lets get him back on the right track.
Contact:
Heather Duhaime
www.gofundme.com
