Kostya was born a healthy baby, but at six months old, he had his first seizure during a high fever. At first, doctors suspected febrile seizures. But after the fourth seizure—this time without a fever—he was diagnosed with epilepsy.
A genetic test later revealed Dravet syndrome, a severe and rare form of epilepsy. In August of this year, Kostya underwent a surgery called posterior callosotomy, which helped stop the dangerous drop seizures.
Today, Kostya can walk, speak, and feed himself with a spoon. However, his coordination is still impaired, so his family holds his hand when they’re outside. He can’t dress himself yet, but he’s trying hard to become more independent.
Now, after the surgery, Kostya needs an MRI scan of the brain. The scan itself is covered by public insurance, but general anesthesia—which is necessary because Kostya cannot stay still—must be paid for out of pocket. Since only his mother is currently working, the cost is too high for the family to cover alone.
