With memory issues being a challenge on any given day, a side effect of Hydrocephalus and the subsequent brain surgeries, it’s a pity we don’t get to choose which ones we retain or forget. (Don’t get me wrong, ageing definitely plays a part in it too but remember, this condition affects people of different ages. …
A child dying will grab anyone’s attention, no matter the circumstances. It’s not to say that adults are less important but there’s just a definitive difference. In the Hydro community I know it affects each and every one of us, without a doubt. I find that it affects me (personally) in more ways than one. …
When you live with a condition like Hydrocephalus and, have the challenges that come with it, it’s easy to reach a level of complacency. However, the kind of challenges I’m talking about don’t include the physical but more the medical care (specifically the lack thereof). So many of us (thankfully) have excellent doctors to whom…
We walk among you, have hopes, dreams and fears. We are employees, parents, children, students, adults, senior citizens and more. Anyone at any age can receive their diagnosis – we are not all born with it. But, those who are, experience their first brain surgery hours, even days, after taking their first breath. Likewise, head…
Something has got to be said for surviving a milestone with this condition. However, it’s not just about surviving another week, month or year without surgery because that in itself is a priceless gift (any Hydro Warrior would understand and acknowledge it). I for one, have literally survived… Without that added extra…Medical care. Fighting against…
I’m not the kind of person who likes being told what to do. In fact, the more independent and self-sufficient I am, the better. My family know, despite their protests or advice when it comes to the way something needs to be done, I’ll still do what and how I want to. I’m stubborn like…
Mothers day brings with it so many thoughts. Mostly there’s a feeling of thankfulness and appreciation. Last year I focussed on mothers of Hydro babies who go above and beyond the calling. This year, I turn the focus inward in the hope that I am not alone in any of it. I am by no…
Wherever I was in my life when you appeared (like a phantom) on the scene, doesn’t even matter anymore. Whatever was going on, whatever I regarded as important at the time…overtaken by the enormity of you. You threw me for a loop and left me spinning aimlessly, wandering on the playing fields of this thing…
I didn’t actually mean that literally 🙂 I just finished reading “Do no harm” by Henry Marsh a little while back. A book, written from the perspective and view of a Neurosurgeon providing some insight to its reader, on what its like to be on the other side. Something attracted me to this particular book to…
A question asked so often, it seems, by doctors. Is this a standard question? Maybe I’m missing something… It’s definitely one that, once asked, gets my back up. Inside, I cringe in anticipation…I take momentary offence and at some stage feel wounded with the knowledge of having been here before. A De Ja Vu moment of…
