McCook Teen Battles Cyclic Vomiting Syndrome, Mom Seeks Awareness

McCook, Neb. – Kersten Cook is on a mission to raise awareness about Cyclic Vomiting Syndrome (CVS), a debilitating condition that has significantly impacted the life of her 14-year-old daughter, Midna.

Midna has been battling CVS for years, experiencing sudden, recurring episodes of severe nausea, vomiting, and physical exhaustion. These episodes, which can last for hours or even days, often require emergency room or hospital treatment and force her to miss school and other activities. While she experiences symptom-free periods between episodes, the unpredictable nature of CVS makes it a constant challenge.

"It's been something that I've learned to live with," Midna shared. "It's a struggle sometimes, and I don't think a lot of people understand it. Lately, it's been worse, and I hope to get it back under control. In the meantime, it's comforting to know that I'm not alone in this battle and there's a lot of warriors out there like me. It's mentally and physically exhausting, but I love it."

CVS symptoms are intense and disruptive, including:

• Episodic violent vomiting

• Unrelenting nausea

• Abdominal pain

• Sensitivity to light and sound

• In severe cases, a conscious coma

Researchers believe CVS may be related to migraines, but the exact cause remains unknown. Adding to the difficulty, there is no specific test for diagnosis, and treatment focuses on managing symptoms. Unfortunately, there is no cure.

Kersten Cook provided an update on Midna's current condition: "She's doing better than she was, but mornings are still really bad, and the pain has been severe. Although, she has thankfully been able to keep more food down, but we’ve been modifying her diet. It’s been rough, and we’re having a heck of a time taming the beast that is CVS. Her school attendance has been much better, but she’s only attending half days. We’ve got a follow-up with neuro, genetics, and see the new gastro Dr. this Wednesday as well. Just keep saying prayers that her team of specialists find the right plan to get her at least back to her ‘normal.’”

"We've had two appointments so far, and her medical team is still working on adapting her medications to get her more stable and back to a baseline where she can have prolonged time between episodes. Right now, she's basically having at least small or tiny blips of an episode almost daily, and then severe ones periodically. She does have abortive medications she can use at home to help manage these episodes."

With International CVS Awareness Day approaching on March 5, 2025, the Cook family is urging the community to learn more about CVS and show support for those affected. They emphasize the importance of recognizing the struggles faced by individuals like Midna and the need for increased research and awareness.