Support Shunt Research

STARS-kids strives to ensure a brighter future for shunted children. A shunt is the preferred treatment for hydrocephalus, a neurologic condition affecting 1 in 500 persons. Excess cerebrospinal fluid collects in the brain increasing intracranial pressure and compromising neurofunction. Shunt complications are common. Hydrocephalus is life-threatening. Research to create non-invasive treatment and find a cure is critically underfunded and absolutely necessary. Proceeds from the 2nd annual walk-a-thon on Oct. 25th (held in 3 locations: Grand Haven, MI; Detroit, MI; Miami, FL) will fund qualified research projects directly.

A dear friend of mine, Angie, is the mother of a very precious little one who has hydrocephalus. She has had a shunt since 2 days after birth. Angie states,

"Without a shunt to relieve the excess fluid off her brain, she would die. She had the shunt placed when she was just 2 days old. She has already had to have one revision (which requires brain surgery) when she was 2 years old. Shunt failure rates are extremely high and statistically speaking, Lil Bug will face many revisions throughout her life (although we pray against that!). Each revision exposes her to potential blood and brain infections and takes her away from school (and eventually work). As her mother I am extremely interested in assisting any way I can in raising funds for more research to be conducted. I want Lil Bugs future to be surgery free!!!"

So it's understandable that funding this research is very important to Angie and her family. She is working really hard to raise as much money as possible to suppurt the research fund. Now until Oct 24th, 100% of the proceeds from her etsy shop, Lucky Bug Boutique, will go to STARS (seeking techniques advancing research in shunts). If you haven't checked out her store before, she has some wonderful handmade items for kids. Infant carriers, bibs, and toddler pillows w/ pillow cases. So why not shop for a few things for the kids and support a good cause at the same time??

Good luck Angie!!