Arteriovenous Malformation (AVM) affects 1% of the population.That’s one in every 200-500 people. It is, simply, a tangle of blood vessels in the brain which can divert blood away from normal brain tissue.These tangled vessels can dilate and burst causing bleeding into the brain. AVM episodes present like stroke, but unlike stroke there is very little known about them. Some patients with AVM can receive surgery to treat the tangle. Sometimes however, the AVM is too complex, too far into the brain or too big and surgery is not an option.Those who can't be operated on are left with a terrifying waiting game while their bodies refuse to operate as they should. They are told simply to wait and see, to look for symptoms of rupture whilst dealing with the constant pain, immobility and loss of control that the AVM brings with it.
Tymeika has been diagnosed with an AVM whilst in her early 30’s.Her AVM is buried too deep to investigate and she and her husband James have been told that there is little that they can do but wait for the inevitable. When her AVM bled Tymeika was left paralysed on her right side.Her speech and mobility have been affected and she is now in constant pain. Her memory and mood have suffered and she receives huge amounts of medication just to be able to function.
James and Tymeika have two beautiful children under 5.They do not understand what’s happening but they are coping admirably for ones so small.James and Tymeika are doing all they can to ensure the children have as normal and fulfilling lives as possible and their strength as a family unit is inspiring to witness.
We, their friends can do little more than be there and try to support them as they shoulder this incredible burden but we would also like to do something practical to help.So, Julian will be running the Cardiff 10k in April to raise funds to adapt their home to suit Tymeika's changing needs.Please give generously and thank you for helping this brave family :0)