Cody Michelle Unser, 12 year old daughter of Shelley and Al Unser Jr., became ill on Friday, February 5, 1999 and has been hospitalized in Albuquerque, New Mexico.
Dr. Edward C. Benzel, the Professor and Chief, Division of Neurosurgery at the University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center and Dr. Douglas Barret, a neurologist with Presbyterian Hospital in Albuquerque are evaluating Cody’s condition.
According to Dr. Benzel "Cody Unser has a rare condition called transverse myelitis which has caused paralysis of her legs. Transverse myelitis is itself nonspecific, but alludes to the fact a part of the spinal cord is involved (transverse) and there is 'presumed' inflammation of the spinal cord (myelitis). The precise cause of transverse myelitis is infrequently identified. A history of a previous viral illness such as a common cold suggests a viral cause in some cases (this may be the case with Miss Unser)."
"Miss Unser is currently undergoing further diagnostic studies. Her current condition is stable. Recovery is cautiously accepted and can be seen within two weeks or after a year or more. A rehabilitation program is currently being planned for Miss Unser, This program will most likely begin within a week."
Arrangements are being made for Cody Unser to be transferred to a rehabilitation facility in Albuquerque in the next week to further monitor her progress.
If you would like to send Cody e-mail, her e-mail address is cody(AT)alunserjr.com
Get
Well Cody!
This many people agree!