Kiera is now WalkingImagine a 9 year old girl with dystonia—a neurological movement disorder— whose condition was so extreme she was unable to walk. Now imagine a leading-edge neurological treatment that could help to restore some of her movement. DBS (deep brain stimulation), a surgical treatment involving the implantation of a medical device called a brain pacemaker, which sends electrical impulses to specific parts of the brain. The surgery is performed while the child is awake. DBS is not a cure for dystonia, but is a treatment that can improve the child’s mobility.

Prior to the surgery, Kiera’s neurologist, Dr. Aalbers, let the family and Kiera know that, even with the surgery, her dystonia was so severe she would probably never walk again. Kiera, however disagreed. In fact, she was so sure that she would walk again, she made a bet with Dr. Aalbers that if post-surgery, she did in fact walk again, Dr. Aalbers would have to shave his head.

On April 11, 2012, the surgery was performed. Fast forward a few months and…you guessed it, she is now WALKING—and definitely holding Dr. Aalbers to his word. Not only is he getting his head shaved but, right now, as we post, she is shaving it for him. Is Dr. Aalbers happy about paying up? You bet. This is one wager where everyone wins.

Dr. Aalbers loses his hair:

If you would like more information on deep brain stimulation (DBS), please click here.