Stories of NF: Kellee F.

I was 16 years old when I was diagnosed with NF1, following a series of doctor appointments over the course of four years because of chronic headaches. My father was diagnosed before I was born and now I was being diagnosed with it.

When I was 17 I had my first brain MRI, which revealed a small tumor on my brain stem. Thankfully it is too small to cause problems and still does not need to be removed. I also have multiple tumors in my scalp that apply pressure around my blood vessels, which is the cause of my chronic headaches. NF affects nearly every doctor appointment because we always have to be sure it is not the cause of whatever problem I may be having.

Having NF can be frustrating at times, especially when going through test after test for something that could be minor, but we have to be certain. The one thing I am always reminded of when I go in for another MRI, or when I have to talk to a doctor about NF, and I have to explain to them what it is, the one thing I hold onto is that no matter what, God can be glorified. I am always looking for a way to find God, to show my doctors who God is. I take opportunities while waiting in the waiting room to pray with people, I take the opportunity to share the hope that I have in Christ with my doctors and nurses. NF may be a part of my life, but it will never control my life. I stay determined to do whatever I set my mind to.

My goal in the future is to become a youth worker on the Navajo, Zuni and Hopi reservations in hopes to bring young people to the love of Christ, but also to give them a safe place to enjoy life and talk about home life. Every young person just needs someone to listen, in a place they feel safe, while eating some great junk food and that is exactly what I hope to bring to them!