Elizabeth M. Elizabeth M.

Hello! 


As most of you know I was diagnosed with Chiari Malformation in January of 2017. For those of you who do not know what Chiari Malformation is, it is a Brain Malformation that basically means your brain is to big for your skull. In medical terms it's a severe neurological condition that causes your cerebellum of the brain and the cerebral (brain) tonsils (not your throat tonsils) to decend into your spinal canal and puts pressure on your brain stem, spinal cord, and brain. Chiari Malformation causes a whole host of symptoms and pain; primarily pressure headaches, blurred vision, grip weakness, dizziness, and balance issues. 


I had my first brain surgery March 31st, 2017. Since my surgery my pain levels and symptoms have not improved and have honestly gotten worse. So I pursued two different surgeons opinions to see what could still be causing my pain and symptoms. As it turns out I was informed that I am in need of a SECOND BRAIN SURGERY.  Because the first one was unsuccessful and created more issues... 


It really came as a shock to my family and I. We are quite honestly still processing the whole thing, but we are just trying to be optimistic. The second surgery will be happening January 22nd, 2018. So I am starting the new year off swinging with all the medical appointments and jargony stuff trying to get everything ready for the big day. 


Thank you to everyone who has been so supportive, loving, and beyond kind to my family and I as we have gone through this jounrey. It has really been a hard ass year for me! And it truly means so much to me to have such an amazing support system around me. I love you all with every single cell of my being! 


I will keep you updated with journal entries and posts as often as I can. My mom Angela will also be posting entries when I can't to keep everyone in the loop. Thanks for taking the time to read my story and for visiting my site! 



Xoxo,
Elizabeth 😘