Kari is very tired today and needing some extra rest.
She had a busy day yesterday with lots of visitors. She continues to have a positive outlook on all of this and amazes her medical team with her progress. Kari slept well last night and ate a good breakfast this morning.
There was a little concern about the drain in her head this morning, but that was quickly resolved and it’s working properly. The color and amount of drainage is on course with her healing process.
The timeline and process for drain removal is yet to be determined but they are cautiously optimistic about taking the first step of this process on Monday.
As far as the official diagnosis and treatment plan goes, that is still a waiting game. This report may take 10-14 days to be completed. Once pathology presents this report, the neuro oncology team will collaborate on a plan of treatment going forward. The team here at U of I will also collaborate with teams in MN to ensure that everyone is on the same page when Kari makes it home to MN.
We are so incredibly grateful for all of your love and support for Kari and the entire family. It’s overwhelming to read all of your comments, cards, letters and messages. ❤️
In the meantime we take each day moment by moment and hour by hour.
Please pray for Kari and please don’t stop praying!!! 🙏🙏🙏
Feb 11, 2026 Update:
Post 2nd surgery / Morning neuro team Update:
Kari had a good night. She got lots of rest, aside from the vital checks every 2 hours. The neuro team said they got everything of the tumor that they could see.
Right now, she has a drain line from her head/wound site. This needs to remain for 5 days. The neuro team said “you're kind of stuck with us until then”
Plan is to move to another neuro floor today - discharged from ICU. The neuro team will still stop by every morning. They are disconnecting a few of her lines - giving her more freedom!
Kari is so amazing! She is high spirited, strong, positive, and just appreciative of everyone around her.
Lisa was away from her, down a hallway updating notes. She could hear a voice that sounded like Kari. Sure enough - she comes walking around the corner!!! It was so amazing! ❤️❤️
We are working on reading when we can. You all know Kari loves to read. It will take some time for retraining her brain - moving her eyes, moving her head. Feel free to send cards to give her something to read.
As you all can imagine, the 2nd brain surgery creates more costs, etc. Kari's family are so thankful for all of the generosity and rallying for Kari. Truly remarkable. Please keep spreading the word, messages, and prayers!!!🙏 🙏🙏
Love to all.
Lisa, Jack, CJ
Feb 9, 2026 Update:
Dear family and friends,
We are incredibly thankful for the outpouring of love, prayers, messages, and support you have shared with Kari and our family. Every note, text, and gesture has meant so much to us, and Kari feels surrounded by care even in the hardest moments.
About a week and a half ago, Kari began experiencing neck pain and headaches while she was in Ames, Iowa. Over the course of the week, her symptoms worsened. She began feeling nauseous and experienced vision concerns. Lisa and Kari went to urgent care in Ames, Iowa. They sent us to the ER in Ames to get a CT scan.. The scan revealed a lemon-sized mass on her brain.
Kari and Lisa self-transported (two hour drive) to the University of Iowa Hospital in Iowa City on Saturday. On Sunday, she underwent brain surgery to remove as much of the mass as possible. Following surgery, doctors confirmed that Kari has an aggressive high grade tumor. A second surgery is scheduled for Tuesday to remove more of the mass which will provide her care team with additional information and will inform Kari’s care plan moving forward.
Throughout this incredibly difficult and fast-moving journey, Kari has been surrounded by her family. We are by her side every step of the way supporting her, advocating for her, and ensuring she is never alone. Kari continues to show extraordinary strength and courage, and we are deeply grateful for the exceptional medical care she is receiving. Kari’s brave spirit and gentle strength continue to inspire all who know and love her.
Thank you for continuing to keep Kari in your thoughts and prayers and for the steady stream of encouragement and love. Please know how much your support means to Kari and to all of us. We will continue to share updates as we are able.
Kari is surrounded by faith and family. Lord, we trust you as the great Healer and ask You to restore health, strength, and bring peace.
With love and gratitude,
Lisa, CJ, Jack
