An Aneurysm Strikes One of Houston Astros Very Own

This past week the Houston Astros experienced quite a scare, when they heard one of their very own, minor league catcher, Jose Lopez, had been admitted to the hospital that afternoon for a brain aneurysm. The irony of this event happening to one of the players within the organization I am working with was alarming, to say the least. Not only is this a wake-up call to so many, but a true testimony that aneurysms are treatable! Just one week ago, Jose suffered what he considered “the worst headache of his life.” Lopez was sent directly to The Methodist Hospital, where an MRA (magnetic resonance angiogram) confirmed this headache to be a leaking, nearly ruptured aneurysm. Jose underwent immediate surgery, receiving 36 staples to close the wound. Lopez’s surgery was a success, so much in fact that he visited Minute Maid Park on Sunday to watch the Astros game. Thanks to the quick reaction to Jose’s symptoms and the phenomenal neurosurgeons at The Methodist Hospital, a life was saved this week.

To highlight our impact and convey our mission with clarity, we are excited to announce that the Joe Niekro Foundation is now the Niekro Aneurysm and AVM Foundation. We look forward to building on the Niekro legacy and continuing our mission!
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