We can’t get over how brave 12-year-old Alexis Shapiro is!
This redheaded Texas cutie had a condition known as craniopharyngioma – a rare brain tumor that didn’t ever allow Alexis to feel full which led to her hypothalamic obesity. In just 2 years, Alexis gained over 150 pounds!
Her life was at stake and her parents turned to their insurance company to help with Alexis├óΓé¼Γäós gastric bypass – a necessary surgery that would save her. The company REFUSED!
It wasn’t until after a successful crowd-sourcing campaign online that their insurers changed their minds and covered Alexis’s surgery.
Last month, she went under the knife to finally get the help she needs in order to get back to normal. It’s been a few weeks since she went through the process, and Alexis is already on the right track to recovery!
Her mom Jenny explained the changes they’re already seeing, saying:
“Her diabetes is pretty much gone. She is off insulin. She looks healthier and has more energy. The other day she pushed herself to climb three flights of stairs.├óΓé¼┬¥
So far, the 4 foot 7 inch Alexis has dropped 6 pounds. Her doctors are hoping she can lose up to 50 lbs in the long run though.
It won├óΓé¼Γäót be easy either. Alexis has not been allowed to have solid foods yet! She only eats about three tablespoons of “mushy” food a day, which makes her feel full, according to her mom!
Hang in there kiddo! We know it’s tough but you’re doing an AH-Mazing job so far! We and thousands of others around the world support you!
[Image via Facebook.]
