Hydrocephalus: The silent assassin

Hydrocephalus does NOT discriminate. There’s no single cause and more people are diagnosed with it, than you, or I, could ever know. Globally! It really is a silent assassin. One you can’t see coming.

Awareness and education provide the best armour.

Saying; “It won’t happen to me”, is no guarantee.

Thanks to having viral meningitis, twice, which caused aqueductal stenosis, and ultimately hydrocephalus – here I am.

I was 15 years old when it first hit me, and in my final year of high school. 7 years later, I had it again. Both times I remember vividly. A pain and discomfort I wouldn’t wish on anyone. The exorcist comes to mind!

I now know, that was when I actually acquired my brain injury, unbeknownst to me at the time. It’s evident, despite my injury, I’ve been developing strategies to go about life ever since then.

I SUCCESSFULLY (AMONGST OTHER THINGS):

• Attained my high school certification albeit a few months later.
• Started my career as a secretary.
• Moved into IT where I completed numerous courses & certifications over the years.
• Diagnosed with hydrocephalus at age 29 (only), and survived my first VP shunt (brain) surgery.
• Regardless, I successfully moved into different roles, and completed over 20+ years in the industry.

While a brain bleed has presented further challenges, I’ve made progress and defied the odds. Forward motion is all that matters…

Hindsight truly is a wonderful thing. Having survived meningitis has proven to me that, no matter what I have had to endure with my brain, I’ve always come through on the other side.
Faith. Resilience. Determination. 3 things I’ve drawn strength from.

If the past has taught me anything it’s that I WILL overcome. I know what it takes to survive. I know how to steer past the obstacles life throws at me. I choose to be vulnerable and open about my journey. Some may see it as a sign of weakness, or call me stupid for being too transparent, because I’m “exposing” myself. Is that even relevant? Isn’t the working world moving towards a more inclusive state?

Truthfully, being vulnerable, advocating for myself and those living with hydrocephalus and brain injury, it’s where I gain the most. The fact that I do and have helped others because of it, makes it all worth it.

EMPLOYER QUESTION

How are you helping or supporting employees with hydrocephalus and brain injury in your organisation? As someone who masked it for years I’m willing to bet you have people in your employ who are doing exactly the same. Wouldn’t you rather know and provide the support they need?

Feel free to reach out. I’m more than happy to help educate and increase your understanding, for FREE.