Anissa’s Story # 3 – Weary – But Trusting In His Grace.

praying stick

Following Anissa’s release from the university hospital, seizures became more frequent regardless of various drugs added, including Valium (diazepam). She was then put on a Ketogenic (High Fat) diet. After five weeks without a spell, she suddenly had a violent reaction. While drinking the heavy cream mixture, it expulsed with great force from Anissa’s mouth. It reminded us of seeing water spouting from a whale.

Seizures returned and since her health was deteriorating, the dietetic therapy was discontinued. Allergies, along with sinus infections, seemed a constant battle. We were pushed into many avenues of healing that would never have been considered if it hadn’t been for our desperation to keep Anissa from being institutionalized.

When she was 3 1/2 years old, our nerves were beginning to frazzle. So one day we made a spur-of-the-moment decision to close the motel for a few days and head for Florida. While the business had been a priority in the past, now Anissa’s health and our sanity was what really mattered. An elderly couple who were frequent guests at our motel had invited us for a visit where they lived in Ormond Beach during the winter months.

The time in Florida was wonderful! Our son loved the ocean and Anissa was much better. Remembering what the neurologist had said about her being better off where she could be outdoors, we decided to move. Within two months’ time, we sold our motel-restaurant. We purchased a home one block from the ocean in Ormond Beach and moved in July, 1971.

WalkingB&V Beach for email

Being outside in the ocean air improved Anissa’s physical health but the seizures continued. Even so, she attended the Rainbow School for the Retarded in September. However, she had a difficult time adjusting. The sound of my little girl crying and screaming made it difficult to leave but because of the opinion of experts saying that she would adjust and needed the school, I persevered. Later, when the school psychologist met with me, she explained that Anissa was unable to adapt and would do best on a one-to-one basis. One day when a volunteer Catholic nun was present, Anissa was drawn to her in a positive way, just wanting to sit on her lap.

As seizures worsened, the school would call for me to come get my daughter. One teacher suggested that we take Anissa to a medical doctor who specialized in diets, using the process of eliminating certain foods to detect an allergy or toxic reaction. At first, while on vegetable juices, Anissa improved drastically but after the third day she began acting like a starved animal, grabbing other children’s food at school and eating things not meant for human consumption.

Realizing Anissa would not be able to continue in school the way she was, the teacher then recommended a chiropractor who might be of help. That was an unfamiliar avenue of healing so we gave it prayerful consideration. Around Thanksgiving time, Anissa began having more grand-mal seizures. We decided to try chiropractic therapy and immediately there was a noticeable improvement in her speech, with less hyperactivity and seizures. Once again we were hopeful. However, westerly winds hit our area, causing a high pollen count of ragweed and other air pollution. These winds lasted for several weeks and instead of progressing, Anissa grew steadily worse.

anissa2

By Christmas she was unable to talk, comprehend or even recognize us. She lost control of her bladder and bowels and was having 15 -20 grand-mal and over 200 lightning seizures daily. She wanted only to be held and to lay her head down. She was confused and walked into objects as though blind. By January, 1972, she was unable to walk or talk.

Many times I cried aloud to the Lord, “Heal this child and I’ll do anything You want!” Fear now had a grip on me. The more I read on nutrition, vitamin and herbal therapy, I worried that I might be upsetting Anissa’s metabolism rather than stabilizing it, as I attempted to bring her seizures under control. After hearing about other epileptics being healed while undergoing therapy at the Spears Chiropractic Hospital in Denver, Colorado, I began to hope that such daily therapy would provide answers for our child. Also, my husband could not stand to see me so exhausted and said that if things didn’t change, Anissa would have to be institutionalized. Remembering my earlier prayer regarding such, I felt Spears was my only ray of hope left.

grace 2

Once again we expected to experience our Lord’s excellent grace.

To contact Anissa’s mother email blawyerlogos@bellsouth.net

To visit the ministry website go to http://www.wellspringhealingretreat.org

Anissa’s Story # 4 – God Does A New Work In Both Mom And Daughter!

Because of Anissa’a vegetative state, she had to be fed and cared for like a newborn baby. My only consideration was getting her to Spears hospital in Denver. Everything seemed to fall quickly into place. The necessary arrangements were made for the flight, as well as the hospital. My parents had already planned to spend the winter in Florida and were willing to stay with my husband and our son.

In mid-January 1972, I boarded a plane with my daughter, whose eyes by that time were covered with a dull film. As I looked out the window of the plane and saw my family waving goodbye, I suddenly felt so alone. Though I tried to overcome the feeling, I was painfully aware of the awesome responsibility for Anissa and the unknown path that lay ahead.

I was relieved when we finally checked into our room at Spears, but disappointed to learn that the pediatric ward had been closed down since we made our original plans. I was hoping for a time of respite with nurses caring for Anissa. The following morning she underwent a thorough examination with blood tests and X-rays. The next day we met with the hospital administrator, who explained in detail the results of the tests:

“A brain malfunction such as Anissa’s does not readily respond to therapy. It takes at least two weeks to know whether or not the skull-molding technique would be beneficial. Her X-rays show enormous pockets of intestinal gas, the size of an adult’s, which could be causing her pain and discomfort.”

A therapeutic program was to start the following day but he warned me not to get my hopes up too high for the brain malfunction of Anissa to be fully corrected by therapy. Discouragement tried to take control of my heart as the dismal report played over in my mind. I felt the need for fresh air. The outdoor temperature was an unseasonably 68 degrees. Since I had only winter clothing with me, I decided to head for a shopping area to purchase a lightweight blouse as it was extremely warm in the hospital. Carrying my 4 1/2 year old daughter did not seem a heavy burden until the 6th block. Several blocks later I noticed a “SALE” sign in the window of Ruby’s Fashions.

Once inside, I noticed that the blouses were of a higher quality than I needed, so I started to leave. The owner, Ruby Nikaido, had inquired about Anissa’s condition and also suggested a discount store close by for the type of blouse I needed. As I took hold of the door knob to leave Ruby asked me if they could pray for my daughter. Stunned momentarily by her request, she asked again if they could pray for Anissa and I replied “Well I am afraid it would take a miracle.”

In the same store at that time was Gladys, a sales lady and also Vern Howell, a minister and president of “Acts Fellowship”- a ministry where the miraculous was commonplace. He just happened to stop by that day. I sat Anissa upon the store counter and they lay hands on her while praying for a miracle. Their sincere prayers touched me deeply as tears flowed freely. Afterward Vern offered us a ride back to the hospital for which I was most grateful. He waited while I got Anissa diapers and a cool blouse for myself.

gods healing grace

On the drive back to the hospital, Vern asked “Have you ever said the sinner’s prayer?” I replied “Well, I pray a lot and I belong to a Methodist church.” He then questioned, “Would you like to have Jesus as your personal savior?” I said “I believe in Jesus.” Then Vern asked “Would you like a closer walk with Him, to know Jesus personally? Would you repeat a prayer after me?”

I decided to do so but when it came to the part of the prayer where I was to say “I am a sinner” it was as though the words were stuck in my throat and did not want to come out. Determined, I repeated after him “I am a sinner. I’m sorry for my sins. Forgive me Lord Jesus, cleanse me and be the Lord of my life.”

At once I felt as though a great burden had been lifted from me. As I left Vern’s car and walked into the hospital, I actually felt different, both physically and mentally. In the morning, Anissa was more alert and the dull film had lifted from her eyes. She began her first therapy session and by the afternoon she wanted to walk and began to speak words clearly. By the end of that day there had not been even a hint of a seizure. The following day she was outside running, even trying to catch soap bubbles.

Three days later she tried to ride a tricycle and still no seizures. During my stay at the hospital, I learned to perform various methods of therapy that would be beneficial to her overall health.

One day Ruby visited us at the hospital. The Holy Spirit had directed her to explain to me the meaning of new birth, gifts of the Holy Spirit and the blood of Jesus. Though I believed in God, daily Bible reading was not a part of my life, but suddenly there was a strong desire to do so. I really began to look forward to Ruby’s visits and prayers, since many questions were running through my mind as to what Anissa and I had experienced after our day at her “fashion” shop.

Little did I know how greatly I would be depending upon God’s excellent grace in preparation for the ministry God had for Anissa and me that was soon to begin.

To contact Anissa’s mother, email blawyerlogos@bellsouth.net

To go to the ministry website- http://www.wellspringhealingretreat.org

Anissa’s Story # 5 – The Good Doctor & The Great Physician

anissa5

With Anissa acting so normal and not one hint of a seizure throughout the week of therapy at Spears Hospital in Denver, along with the prayerful visits of Ruby Nikaido, I wondered if God had performed an outright miracle, or if the seizures had stopped as a result of the therapy. My longing was to go home so my family could see the miraculous change in Anissa. Also hospital bills were a great concern – yet, I had a fear of leaving there when she was making such great progress. At that moment my security seemed to be in the therapy she was receiving. Not wanting to make the same mistake I made previously when Anissa was 6 months old, putting too much confidence in a doctors prescribed therapy, I decided it was time to put all my trust in God.

“Oh God,” I prayed, “please give me a sign that I may know whether to stay for another week of therapy or go home.” That sign came immediately after her next skull-molding therapy. Anissa experienced a seizure that was different from any type of spell she’d ever had in the past. I interpreted it as God’s way of telling me that it was not the therapy that had stopped the seizures. I knew it was miraculous and that we were not to stay another week but return home and share everything that had happened to Anissa with my family. This different type of seizure did not disturb me since there was no doubt in my mind that God was in control. I had such peace and didn’t even question Him.

Ruby was so gracious to take us to the airport and even waited while we boarded the plane. She prayed with us, instilling in me the confidence that God would meet our needs. She also brought puzzles and books to keep Anissa occupied on the long flight home. Through Ruby’s example, I learned how important it is to obey the Holy Spirit. One particular point she made had a strong impact on my faith throughout the following years: “Anytime God wants you to do something for Him, He will babysit Anissa.” This has proven to be a true word numerous times!

Anissa was extremly good on the flight home and I felt renewed physically, mentally, and spiritually. Upon our arrival at home, our family, friends and neighbors were surprised and excited to see Anissa looking so normal and healthy. She was now able to run, walk and talk and was free of the lightning seizures.

Shortly thereafter, my husband and our son experienced the power of God while attending a seminar where evangelist Frank Marzullo taught on the Pentecostal movement in the Catholic church. It was a miracle to see Anissa sit quietly for several hours during the entire service. Afterwards, the evangelist and team intercessors prayed over her. She was then set free of all seizures and began adding new words to her vocabulary.

Two months later my husband’s parents visited us and went to Busch Gardens with us. The ride through the animal kingdom in an open tram must have triggered Anissa’s allergies, causing abnormal spastic-like movements. Evidently the extreme heat, high humidity, blooming flowers and animal dander was too much for her immune system. To our dismay she suffered a relapse and soon was having full seizures, which was to become a thorn in the flesh.

In hopes to alleviate negative thoughts regarding Anissa’s healing, I sought the Lord for answers. He answered through an encouraging letter from Ruby, confirming that God was working in our situation. She shared how a fearful thought had crossed her mind:

“What if I had not obeyed God? Would Anissa have missed out on her miracle?” She wrote, “I had such an Anointing come upon me when you started to walk out { of the dress shop } and the Lord said ‘Pray for the little girl’. I thought why do I have to? And He said again ‘Pray for the little girl.’ It scared me when you came back that Friday afternoon when I saw what I saw with my own eyes. Anissa walked in so tall and looked me straight in the face. I looked at her and thought to myself, its the same little face, so alert and so sweet, same hair and same haircut. I looked at you. It’s the same mother. Yes – It’s them. And after you told us all that was happening to her, I don’t have words to explain. A thousand things went through my mind. Now I know what a miracle is. I was seeing one, and God is on the throne, and what Jesus said in the scriptures is true. He is real and alive”

jesus healing hand

Had Anissa been totally cured in Denver, perhaps our family would not have had the spiritual experience of learning who God is and growing in the fruits of the spirit. In the years ahead, whenever ultimate victory seemed out of our grasp, we learned that barriers are obstructions that are not necessarily impassable but can be made possible by God’s excellent grace

To reach Anissa’s mother email blawyerlogos@bellsouth.net

To visit the ministry website go to http://www.wellspringhealingretreat.org

Anissa’s Story – Post #10 – Waiting For God…

gods timing

As a result of the healing Anissa received in October-November, 1975, she was able to learn and do more things for herself. It then gave me some free time to concentrate upon God’s call to build a healing center. During that time, there was no internet to access, so we had to seek other means of obtaining information.

There just happened to be a woman visiting our church who was credited for establishing Prayer Rooms in USA state capitol buildings. She began attending the prayer group meetings in our home, giving us wise counsel in laying a solid foundation that would carry forth the vision of a healing center.

Several members of our prayer team gathered with her for a day of prayer and fasting to first seek a name for the ministry. The Holy Spirit led us to the Scripture, “In the beginning was the Word [Logos], and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. In Him was Life, and the Life was the Light of men.”

John 1:1, 4

The Bible I used translated the Word as Logos. The revelation we received was that the written Word, Logos, would give life and light for the building of a solid foundation – thus – LOGOS LIFE AND LIGHT FOUNDATION. Four years later, the ministry was legally incorporated as a not-for-profit organization.

Little did we realize it would be 25 years before the healing center would become a reality. Once again we are reminded of how God’s timing differs from our concept of time. Just like the Biblical story in Genesis when God promised Abraham that he would have a son. We learned from that example how important it is to wait upon the guidance of the Holy Spirit and not take matters into our own hands and end up with an Ishmael rather than an Isaac!

Over that long period of waiting, many of our faithful prayer group members had to watch from the balconies of heaven the completion of the healing center. I feel certain they, along with a host of heavenly angels, were all singing high praises when the center was dedicated on February 27, 2000, to the glory of God and established by

His Excellent Grace.

welcome wellspirng

To reach Anissa’s mother, email blawyerlogos@bellsouth.net

For a virtual tour of the Center, go to http://www.wellspringhealingretreat.org

Anissa’s Story – Post #11 – “Listening For God’s Instructions”

As the vision of a healing center without drugs began to take

form, my understanding needed to be enlightened, because I

thought it would be a center using only natural methods for healing.

Little did I realize that God had me learn the various methods in order to gain knowledge for better communication with those

who were afflicted in mind or illness of body. It took about eleven

years before I began to realize it would be God’s Word, prayers

and the gifts of the Holy Spirit working through anointed

followers of Christ that would be used to heal the sick.

“Apply your mind to instruction and correction, and your ears to the words of knowledge.” Proverbs 23:12 (Amp)

One method that greatly benefited Anissa’s mental capabilities

was the Montessori School of Education – a program that was

originally developed for the mentally retarded, based on the

“whole child” approach with hands-on learning. An instructor,

who had just established a new Montessori school nearby, offered

to tutor Anissa in our home during the summer months of 1976.

Because of her rapid progress, the instructor felt it would be good

for Anissa to be in the school environment several times a week

toward the end of the school day, just before dismissal of the

full time students.

We agreed on the condition that we would be alerted of any

infectious illnesses among the students. It was such an uplift for

us to hear Anissa talking about the work she did at school, saying:

“equilateral triangle, quadrifid, square,” etc. The excitement of

her learning, along with the teachings I received, came to an

abrupt halt in November.

In all the busy-ness of the school

routine, the instructor forgot to alert us when a virus had

overtaken many students, as well as the teacher. In a short

period of time, Anissa contracted the virus. After several days of

sickness, multiple seizures returned and regression became a

continuous battle in the days and years that followed.

“When the righteous cry for help, the Lord hears, and delivers them out of all their distress and troubles.” Psalm 34:17 (Amp)

We recognized that Anissa’s immune system was not strong

enough to tolerate being in an environment where communicable

diseases were so commonplace. As one door closed, another

would open! God directed appropriate tutors to help me with

home schooling to meet the needs of Anissa’s learning ability.

Many times, God offers opportunities that transcends trials and

tribulation encountered on earth -just so someone can taste of

His Excellent Grace!

To contact Anissa’s mother email blawyerlogos@bellsouth.net

To take a virtual tour of the healing center go to

http://www.wellspringhealingretreat.org

Anissa’s Story – Post #17 – Mystery Mail & A Miracle In Massachusetts…

Having attended healing services at the Worcester Memorial
Auditorium from noon to evening on Saturday and Sunday, we
were ready for an extra day of rest before going on to Canada.
Also, it gave us an opportunity to meet other guests staying at
the hotel. One couple from the Midwest who had attended the
services, but did not receive healing, asked us to pray for them.
They spoke of their desire to go see Fr. DiOrio’s ministry
headquarters in Leicester, MA. Since it was only a ten minute
drive from our hotel and they had no car, we offered to take them
to visit the place.
Upon our arrival at the ministry offices, we were asked our reason
for being there. After briefly sharing our testimony, they wanted
a summary of Anissa’s seizures for their files. Then, if she showed
definite results of healing from the services we attended, Fr.
DiOrio would be notified.
The secretary related that because of his busy schedule and being
in conference with the Bishop at that moment, it would not be
possible for Fr. DiOrio to meet personally with us. She suggested
that we all go into the Chapel for a time of prayer.
In the Chapel, a Sister of the Order wanted to know more about
the seizures that Anissa experienced. She was interested
because her niece and nephew suffered with tonic-clonic seizures.
The Sister went on to say that if Fr. DiOrio was led by the Holy
Spirit to come into the Chapel, he would. Just then, the door
opened and to our surprise, Fr. DiOrio entered. Upon seeing
Anissa, he said, “I touched her twice at the service on
Saturday.” We shared with him about her seizures. He sat
beside her, placed his hands upon her and prayed silently for
about ten minutes, then said, “She’ll be all right – in time.”
While he was in prayer, a vision appeared before me of a brain
with an “S” shaped form in the midst which suddenly shifted in
the opposite direction.

To our amazement, Anissa never complained while Fr. DiOrio’s
hands lay on her head during the lengthy prayer. Afterwards, he
asked how we knew about the healing services that we had just
attended in Worcester. I related how a brochure of the scheduled
meetings showed up in our mailbox. He quickly responded,
“But we don’t send out such pamphlets!” He then questioned the
Sister for a confirmation. She stated that the only way a schedule
was sent would be upon special request and that maybe someone
had asked them to send it. In the following year, we did meet
several persons who had attended Fr. DiOrio’s miracle services –
but the mystery of the pamphlet still remains!

IMG_1111[3029] Anissa 2 before

Anissa before healing services ( above) and then after the services.

IMG_1109[3027] Anissa - after3

The change in Anissa’s countenance and strength of body was so
evident. Once again, seizures were less frequent, she was able to
feed herself and eat a greater variety of food. In God’s mercy,
we were given the boost of faith needed to continue our journey –
sustained by His Excellent Grace.

To reach Anissa’s Mother email blawyerlogos@bellsouth.net

To take a virtual tour of the healing center go to http://www.wellspringhealingretreat.org

Anissa’a Story #26 – Road Trip & Awaiting The Anointing…

god is my healer

By the year of 1988, we had once again pursued all avenues of medical help in search of healing for the uncontrollable seizures that 21-year-old Anissa battled against. Since surgery was not recommended, we knew it would take a miracle breakthrough supernaturally or discovery of new anti-seizure remedies.

The following three years greatly challenged our faith but prayerful warriors helped us to keep a proper focus. The only positive value I have seen from a violent seizure is an altering of Anissa’s brain chemicals when no medication works. One time, I prayed she might have the kind of seizure that would change things when she was so out of control with a loud voice and very little sleep. Our nerves were worn thin and I cried out desperately to the Lord for an answer. A vision appeared before me of two arms with outstretched hands surrounded by a glorious light coming out of heaven toward me.

Several hours later a Pastor’s wife called me regarding a meeting they were attending in Crystal River, directly across the state of Florida from our home. She explained that while in their time of prayer that morning, a vision of our family kept coming before them. The Pastor asked if we could bring Anissa to the meeting to have the minister, Dave Roberson, pray for her as there was a strong healing Anointing upon him. In desperate need of a breakthrough, my husband and I put everything on hold, pushing past the speed limit to make the evening meeting. To this day, I can still hear Anissa’s non-stop loud voice during the 2 ½ hour drive.

Once there, I stayed in the car with her while my husband attended the meeting until the time was right for me to go in alone when people would be going forth for prayer. As I waited in line with others, the minister was going to everyone but me, until finally I was standing alone. Then coming to me he said: “You probably wonder why I kept passing by you, but the Spirit of Prophecy was upon me and all I could see over you was Healing.” After explaining our situation and Anissa’s diagnosis of Lennox Gastaut Syndrome, he looked over to our Pastor and his wife asking them if this was the girl they had mentioned to him. After nodding ‘yes’, Dave Roberson then began to prophesy: “The Lord has shown me that you have taken your daughter to all the best medical doctors, as well as noted healing ministries, but the Anointing has yet to be given for this kind and it isn’t that far off!” He then wanted me to bring Anissa into the meeting for the elders to pray over her.

“But Jesus took him by the hand, and lifted him up; and he arose. And when he was come into the house, his disciples asked him privately, ‘Why could not we cast him out?’ And he said unto them, ‘This kind can come forth by nothing, but by prayer and fasting.’” Mark 9:27-29

Afterwards, the loudness of voice stopped and we had a peaceful drive home with quietness in Anissa during the weeks that followed – another experience of His Excellent Grace!

To contact Anissa’a mother email her at blawyerlogos@bellsouth.net

To take a tour of the healing center go to http://www.wellspringhealingretreat.org

Anissa’s Story – Post #27 – Discerning Doctors…

Reaching the age of 25 was a victory for Anissa, especially considering how seizures had increased in volume and velocity. “Red tape” had blocked the release of Felbatol (felbamate), an anti-seizure drug for which she had been approved the previous year. Her neurologist hoped to obtain it as a “compassionate drug” rather than experimental, to avoid the strenuous testing otherwise required by the FDA, which could worsen Anissa’s frail condition.

Starting felbamate therapy was further delayed when it became apparent Anissa needed her wisdom teeth removed. This required general anesthesia with monitoring of seizures during the operation (x-rays, cleaning, extractions, etc.), which had to be done at Shands Hospital in Gainesville, Florida. Throughout the summer of 1992, we met with the four doctors in charge – an oral surgeon, pediatric dentist, anesthetist and neurologist. In order to keep Anissa strong enough to survive the operation, we took extra precautions, protecting her from colds and viruses. The timing of the operation was uncertain, due to coordinating the schedules of the doctors, but finally the date was set for November 18th.

Evidence of answered prayers occurred the day before surgery when all the preoperative tests were done from 8:30 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. Anissa had blood work, urinalysis, chest x-rays, several mouth exams, blood pressure and pulse rate, a general exam and lots of waiting, while sitting in a wheel chair the entire time. She did not have her regular naps, or receive her food and medication on schedule, yet only experienced one mild tonic seizure. She was very happy, peaceful and cooperative – truly a miracle!

angel over house

We knew Anissa was in good hands when Charlotte White, the oral surgeon, came out from the operating room to discuss with us what the x-rays and exam revealed: Anissa’s mouth was very healthy with no cavities, abscesses or gingivitis, but two of the wisdom teeth were impacted and the other two were shoving some teeth and could present future problems. Then, looking straight at us, Dr. White asked, “Are you Spirit-filled?” After receiving our affirmative answer, she replied, “So am I.” Another reason for the peace that passeth all understanding we were experiencing!

“For He [Christ Jesus] Himself is our peace, who has made both one, and has broken down the middle wall of division between us.”

Ephesians 2:14 NKJV

After the operation was over, Dr. White explained that gauze was placed in Anissa’s throat to prevent the blood from going into her stomach, as well as a special type of disintegrating sutures and gauze-like packing to alleviate dry sockets. She hoped it would keep Anissa from vomiting – and it did! Even with the strong anesthetic, her EEG showed seizure activity in the brain but she did not outwardly convulse.

During the following week, Anissa required one-on-one supervision night and day to restrain her hands from digging at her sore lips and gums. Puree foods were a steady diet for a season. At the final checkup, she was given a clean bill of health!

We survived the great challenge due to the many faithful intercessors keeping us in prayer before the Lord and overshadowed with His Excellent Grace.

To contact Anissa’s mother email her at blawyerlogos@bellsouth.net

To take a virtual tour of the healing center go to http://www.wellspringhealingretreat.org

Anissa’s Story – Post #28 – Medicine Shift – Watching All Things Work Together…

grace bridge

After the removal of Anissa’s wisdom teeth, the following year in June of 1993, she was approved for the experimental program to begin Felbatol (felbamate) therapy. She ended up having to go the least desirable way rather than embarking on the “compassionate” program, which we had preferred.

Then began the ordeal of withdrawal from her previous medications of Phenobarbitol, Valium, Tegretol and Tagamet. However, within a short period of time, the mental alertness that Anissa exhibited encouraged us to persevere through the rough times of “addictive” withdrawal symptoms. During a two-week period, she experienced 90 multi-type seizures that could easily have ended her life if left to fend for herself.

For accurate evaluation, the neurologist had also prescribed our purchase of a camcorder to video tape all the types of seizures manifested during a two-month period. Shortly thereafter, the videos were used in helping others to recognize various types of seizures, especially for caregivers who worked with such individuals. This, of course, was before people had access to the Internet — WOW! What a blessing it is!!!

After one month of only Felbatol therapy, Anissa was seizure-free for a consecutive period of 21 days – the first time in seven years to be free for more than one or two days per month. Since Felbatol was experimental, the drug company set regulations that required frequent blood tests and a specific dosage, stronger than was best for Anissa. Her digestive system became very irritated, unable to keep food or medicine down. Seizures returned and on October 4th, the neurologist said to get her immediately to the hospital.

After a five-hour wait in the hospital emergency room, she was given an injection of Reglan (metoclopramide) to counteract her violent upchucking and nausea. A positive side effect of Reglan was that shaking-palsy symptoms of Anissa’s head and upper torso stopped! (Normally, this drug can cause a side effect of tremors and lower the threshold for seizure activity, exactly the opposite of the effect it had on her.) She was then prescribed a very small dose of Reglan which gave her an excellent appetite and due to the cessation of the shaking, Anissa was once again able to feed herself. By the time of her next checkup, she had gained seven pounds within two months. Still, seizures were manifesting daily which required additional therapy.

Shortly after Anissa’s flare-up, Felbatol was approved by the FDA and became available through prescriptions. The neurologist was no longer required to comply with the “experimental drug” restriction and could reduce her dosage. Prior to Thanksgiving, at the onset of a family trip to West Virginia, a new regimen of drug therapy was begun, adding Valium (diazepam) to the Felbatol and Reglan.

“And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to His purpose.”

Romans 8:28

The medication change caused Anissa to be in a more docile state that enabled some quality time with her grandparents. It had been over two years since we could visit with our family and grandchildren. A rare treat was being able to have Anissa join with us at a restaurant. We enjoyed first hand how things work together for good through the power of His Excellent Grace.

To contact Anissa’s mother email her at blawyerlogos@bellsouth.net

To take a virtual tour of the healing center go to http://www.wellspringhealingretreat.org

Anissa’s Story – Post #39 – A Great Trial Of Affliction…

trials

New searches still remained on our journey’s quest to find relief for the unrelenting seizure activity that Anissa experienced day in and day out. In June, 2007, the doctor ordered an MRI scan of her brain. The scan showed slight atrophy of the cerebellum, which was considered very minor for her 40-year age, and that structurally, her brain appeared very healthy. Again, it seemed to confirm the seizures were the result of a chemical imbalance that all began when the drug Phenergan was prescribed for her at six months of age. Since hospitals have a limit of keeping such records, I obtained the video to have for future comparison, if needed.

During this time, I was made aware of David Perlmutter, M.D., FACN, a board-certified neurologist, recognized as a leader in the field of complementary medicine and his Health Center in Naples, Florida. After reading his scientific articles published in the Journal of Neurosurgery and The Better Brain Book, a consultation with him seemed wise. His suggestions were numerous before he viewed Anissa’s MRI. He then witnessed firsthand of her having a full-blown multi-type seizure. Afterwards, he ordered a comprehensive analysis of her blood which showed a slight deficiency of the antioxidant, Glutathione and her Lactobacilli was below optimal levels. Otherwise, all tests were excellent, which could account for her physical wellness throughout the year.

To better understand the functions of what Anissa’s lab tests revealed as a deficiency, I did research. One significant fact — Glutathione helps the liver to detoxify poisonous chemicals and is important for good immune system function. Since L-cysteine supplements can raise glutathione levels, Dr. Perlmutter prescribed N-Acetyl Cysteine (NAC). As previously stated, when Anissa was prescribed NAC in 1997, her overall health improved – likewise, this time.

A probiotic containing lactobacillus acidophilus was added to her daily diet that improved her digestive system. A valid test was conducted several times when she was without the supplement for over a week, to then have the old symptoms of digestive/bowel upset reappear. Before probiotics became prominent, the choice was enzyme therapy for symptoms of digestive disturbance, but in order to replace proper flora of the gut, a good probiotic is needed.

Anissa’s physical health remained stable throughout the following year, until she had dental work on December 23, 2008, which required two teeth extractions. Late on Christmas Day, her right cheek began to swell, indicating the need for antibiotic therapy. Evidently, the infection had interfered with the proper function of her brain. At 5:00 the following morning, as I was helping her walk towards the bathroom, her upper torso moved forward while her feet stayed put. This caused Anissa, as well as “momma”, to suddenly plunge forward, thus projecting Anissa’s face forward onto the floor with me on top.

anissa clavicle

The fall struck Anissa’s left cheekbone and within several hours both sides of her face were affected with eyes swollen almost shut. Very destructive type of seizures became more numerous and her incapacitated walking remained, but it was midnight before the evidence of a broken left clavicle [collarbone] surfaced. Being the holidays, she had to be treated at the hospital’s ER. After x-rays of face, knee and shoulder, a restraint-type sling was provided and was a helpful blessing during the many daily hard seizures that followed.

“For there is hope of a tree, if it be cut down, that it will sprout again, and that a tender branch thereof will not cease. Though the root thereof wax old in the earth and the stock thereof dry in the ground, yet through the scent of water, it will bud and bring forth boughs like a plant.”

Job 14:7-9

For five months, it was 24/7 concentrated care with orthopedic visits and x-rays to make certain the clavicle bone adhered properly with no more protrusion. Anissa’s recovery transpired in accordance with the Word of God and remained strong because of

His Excellent Grace.

To contact Anissa’s mother email blawyerlogos@bellsouth.net

To take a virtual tour of the healing center go to http://www.wellspringhealingretreat.org