Olivia's recovery from Chiari

Olivia's Neuro Surgery and Scoliosis Journey Our story Olivia is a happy girl, full of laughter and spunk. She likes to show her leopard print brace to all her friends and family. She loves to sing and dance…even in her brace…let me tell you how it all began. April:  While styling my daughter’s hair (just one of her favorite things to do) I noticed something was not right with her posture.  Her primary doctor referred her to a pediatric orthopedic. May:  X-rays confirmed she did have scoliosis. When I saw the x-ray and learned the curve was at 40 degrees, my heart sank…why didn’t I notice this sooner? Before I could think any further treatment is discussed and an MRI scheduled to diagnose the cause. I agreed the MRI was important even though the sedation scared me.  We scheduled the next available date. The MRI results showed a large build of fluid in her spinal cord. This was the cause of the scoliosis, but what was causing the fluid? As we go over the MRI report we learned a part of her brain was putting pressure on the top of the spinal cord.  She was diagnosed with Chiari Malformation and referred to consult with a Neuro surgeon. June 26th, 2018:  We meet with the neurosurgeon and learned more about the Chiari treatment.  Decompression surgery is needed to prevent further pressure on the lower brain and top of spinal cord, this will also allow the fluid to drain from her spine. Once a part of her skull is removed she will need a minimum of six weeks recovery, then continued treatment of the scoliosis. As a single mother to a vibrant, smart 5 year old all my thoughts are about the care of my child.  Six weeks recovery, I’m there…six weeks out of work with no pay, what am I going to do about the minimum expenses?  The high cost of living has afforded me no savings.  What now? Try to keep calm and ask for help. Trust that asking for help doesn’t make me weak. It shows I’m strong. The goal is a successful surgery and recovery while maintaining our basic needs, normalcy and a low stress environment for us both. An emotionally stable parent is what she needs. By way of not being worried and stressed about how to pay rent, health insurance premiums, utilities, transportation, food and hospital bills, your donation will ensure I can be there for Olivia, 100% physically and mentally during her surgery and recovery in August.  Anything will help. We thank you. Cheers, Geanna