When I was 15 years old, I contracted viral meningitis – I was in my last year at school and this was just before my last exam. 7 years later, I contracted it again – nearly 3 months after giving birth to my eldest son and before going back to work. 5 years later, I…
I’ve never been good with directions but since being diagnosed with Hydrocephalus, with all it’s mental challenges, I’d say it’s 1000 times worse. It really doesn’t matter if I’m taking them or giving them. For example, if I were to be sitting in a car and directing someone, I’d physically have to wave my hand…
Being diagnosed at the age of 29 with Hydrocephalus, I have a Pre-Me version of myself (in my head), lurking beneath the surface. I say lurking because that person somehow feels surreal to me…like a ghost. I am definitely not the same person despite what others may think or see when they look at me….
Regardless of what any Neurosurgeon or Neurologist has told me over the last couple of years, my short-term memory has definitely been affected. And, no it hasn’t improved as the textbooks tell “them” it should after a short period following a brain operation. It feels like ever since my first shunt surgery, I’ve been fighting an uphill…
2 December marks my 7 year post op hurdle. I’ve done it…defied the odds! (She says optimistically). I was told after my operation, that the ETV could close and it normally happens within 5 years. Whether I’ve come to the end of the track or am charging ahead toward the next hurdle…who knows? Every year…
Good “bedside manners” is a quality sought in a relationship with a prospective partner and should effectively be the same when choosing your Neurosurgeon (figuratively speaking of course). Would you go into a relationship with someone who has a bad rep? How is one person’s view different from the other? I’ve consulted with surgeons who, in…
A defining and disappointing aspect of having Hydrocephalus is when those closest to you disregard the effects of the condition. I wonder if there comes a time when family members in the same household possibly just reach a point where they’ve had enough. Enough of your moaning, complaining of how bad your headaches are (especially…
There are days when I really love my job but days like today, I feel like a complete waste of space. I know others appreciate what I do and I love nothing better than to alleviate the little stresses in my colleagues daily work life. In fact, I get satisfaction from knowing that doing a…
Once you, or a loved one, receives a diagnosis of Hydrocephalus, it’s easy to get swept up in the whirlwind of emotions and lose track of life a bit. One thing I can almost guarantee is the support you will come to need, especially when you don’t know which way next. We all have…
Parents, You are the example your child will live by in time to come. I know for a fact that I don’t need to be telling you just how scary it is not knowing if something is wrong. You’ve been there/are there and know exactly how torturous it is. However, your child will see how you…
