The host of Little People, Big World, Matt Roloff, recently revealed that his son Zach Roloff is getting ready for what he describes as an “essential” operation.
On Wednesday, the reality star, who is 61 years old, posted a photo of Zach with his children to Instagram along with an explanation that Zach, who is 32 years old, is receiving a revision to his shunt.
According to John Hopkins Medicine, a shunt is a hollow tube that is surgically placed in the brain — or occasionally in the spine — to assist in the drainage of cerebrospinal fluid and the redirection of that fluid to another location in the body where it can be reabsorbed. This procedure may be performed in response to a condition known as hydrocephalus.
A shunt revision may relieve pressure on the brain and address symptoms such as trouble walking, mild dementia, and lack of bladder control; however, the family has not disclosed specifics regarding the treatment.
“The family has maintained a steady stream of contact and conversation. As Zach goes through this extremely significant modification of his shunt, we are all saying prayers for him “The post’s caption was written by Matt. “Tori is fighting tooth and nail for what is in his best interest, therefore he is in wonderful hands… Please join me in praying that Zach will have a speedy and complete recovery.”
Tori, Zach’s wife, also shared information about the operation on her own social media account, where she asked followers to pray for the couple.
In an Instagram Story that has since been deleted, Tori, who is now 31 years old, wrote, “We discovered Zach’s shunt is in need of repair and will have surgery in the morning.”
The star of TLC’s show claimed that she “hesitated” about breaking the news to her fans, but she did so because “I really believe in prayer and might need some tomorrow.”
Tori continued by saying, “Even though they say it’s a regular procedure, I have no idea what to expect, and both Zach and I are anxious.” “It seems like a significant issue, but we have faith in his doctors and their competence and expertise. We would be grateful for any prayers that you may offer.”
