Brain Aneurysm: You Can Survive

Established April 15, 1995
University of West Georgia Disclaimer

Amy receiving the Ft Myers Mayor's Alliance Award
from Mayor Jim Humphrey.
Goodwill board member in background.
(See narrative update, 27 September 2004)

I'm a 27 year old female who works as a television news anchor/reporter. I live in Ft. Myers, Florida. My husband, Todd, and I were married for about 9 months when I had my aneurysm. We have no children...just two dogs! My husband is also in the business. He works as the assistant director of photography for the same company I work for. I have no family history of brain aneurysms that we know of.

You Can Survive

22 October 1997

October 1997- My husband and I just celebrated our first anniversary! And what an anniversary this is! Two months ago, we weren't so sure that I would even be here.

On July 19th, while working out, I collapsed. I had no symptoms-no headaches, no blurred vision, nothing. Of course, I don't remember any of these details-this has all been told to me. Doctors suspected an aneurysm, but they couldn't find it at first. Eventually, they found it at the base of my neck-one of the worst possible places, according to my neurosurgeon. They clipped the aneurysm and I was on the road to recovery (so we thought). I started rehab, but I wasn't doing too well because I had a fluid build-up in my brain. So, doctors performed a second surgery to insert a shunt to continually drain the fluid.

After 9 weeks in the hospital, a 27th birthday, and various complications, I finally got to go home on my husband's birthday. What a birthday gift to both!! The aneurysm has left me with some left side weakness, and it's left me without a voice. I have a paralyzed left vocal cord and a partially paralyzed tongue. For someone who talks for a living, this has been the hardest thing to deal with. I was a news anchor/reporter for a local TV station. It may be a year before we know if my voice will come back or not. If it doesn't, there are surgical options, but who wants to wait a year for that??!!

I'm determined to beat this thing. So far, doctors tell me I've exceeded everyone's expectations. I do have some memory problems, but my memory wasn't that great before this happened! I also have difficulty talking because of my voice and my tongue. But everything else is great! I still have my sense of humor, thank God!

I wasn't a religious person before all this happened, and I don't think that's changed. But I will say this - I honestly believe the thoughts and prayers from my friends and family had something to do with my recovery. I received more than 300 cards from people I don't know - they were people who watched me on television in southern Illinois, where I previously worked. Their concern kept me going. It took me a while to realize exactly what had happened to me. I had been in the hospital for about 6 weeks when I realized how serious this was. I was on some heavy painkillers and don't remember a lot about my hospital stay.

I'm not able to go back to work yet, but eventually I will. I've decided to share my story with others by doing a story on what happened to me for my television station. I want people to know that something like this is survivable. It may take a year to fully recover, but it can be done!

The only advice I have for others going through this is to take it all in stride. You'll have some good days and you'll have some bad days. Family support is so important! I don't know where I'd be had my husband not been at my side those entire two months. Just hang in there...it's tough, but you can survive!

Update 15 Mar 98

Last July, I had a brain aneurysm. I spent two months in the hospital and had two surgeries..one to clip the aneurysm and one to place a shunt to drain the excess fluid that was building due to a shifted ventricle. The aneurysm happened in the back of my brain and it caused one of my vocal cords to become paralyzed. This has become the most difficult thing for me to deal with because I am a television news broadcaster...my voice is very important to me!

I just had surgery on the paralyzed vocal cord and it appears I will be able to go back to work at some point. Doctors placed a plastic implant inside the paralyzed vocal cord. It basically "pushes" the paralyzed vocal cord over so it will meet with the working vocal cord. It's really amazing...my voice is a little sore and raspy because of the swelling and the surgery, but I have a voice! My doctor said it's going to get worse before it gets better and it may take a few months before my voice will get as good as its going to get.

Update 7 Dec 98

It's now December...I've been back at work full time for about 3 months now. I had surgery last March on my paralyzed vocal cord-my voice is as good as new!! It's really amazing...my voice sounds great. You would never know I have a paralyzed vocal cord.

I'm working as a television news reporter/anchor in Ft. Myers. It's going well. It's been tough, though. Going back to work has definitely been the hardest thing about my recovery. It's harder than my time spent in physical, occupational, and speech rehab. It's been tough because I have some memory problems, that sometimes affect my ability to do my job. I've had some tough assignments...stories that have a lot of details. I have a hard time sorting through those details...I tend to become overwhelmed by things very easily. I just have to remember to take a few moments and collect my thoughts, and then tackle the problem. It's tough because I have absolutely no patience!!! I've always been an impatient person and that hasn't changed a bit!!! It's also tough because I love my job...and I can't imagine doing anything else.

Although I'm back at work full time, I still don't feel like I've beaten this thing. Maybe I never will...I don't know.

Update 1 Apr 1999

I just had my yearly checkup with my voice doc at Vanderbilt in Nashville...he is extremely pleased at the way my voice sounds one year after my vocal cord implant surgery (the aneurysm paralyzed one of my vocal cords). In fact, I've been released from his care! He said the only time he wants to see me is if I have any sort of problem! That's great news...now I truly feel I've beaten this thing!!

Update 24 May 1999

Well, I think I spoke too soon about having finally beaten my brain aneurysm. I went to see my neurologist last week because I was having headaches, balance problems, and my right arm was a little numb. After a horrendous CAT Scan (I'm now allergic to iodine...no more non-contrast CAT's for me!), it turns out, my shunt is malfunctioning. I go in for surgery this Thursday. He's not sure if he has to replace the whole shunt or just part of it. He'll know more once he gets in and sees it.

I'm a little upset. It's only been two years since I've had this shunt put in. According to my doctors, spinal fluid has a lot of protein in it, and that protein can clog the shunt. So is this what I have to look forward to the rest of my life? Having my head shaved and cut open every two years or so?

Because I am so "shunt dependent", it's obvious when my shunt isn't working. In one respect, I'm glad we were able to recognize the problem before it became life threatening. But on the other hand, I was just beginning to get back to normal. I am doing well at work, having moved back into a main reporting spot. Now, I have to take more time off from work. I'm very upset about having my head shaved because as a television news reporter, I need my hair!!!!

Luckily, my station has been extremely supportive and understanding...they are willing to work with me in every way. I'm meeting with my boss this week to try and figure out what we're going to do. I'm not as upset as I was when I first found out I would need surgery. But I still am a little discouraged. I do think it will be easier this time around. My doctors don't think it will be as traumatic for me, since I've already been through this type of surgery. I won't need extensive rehab, like I did before. But it still stinks!!!

I'll keep you posted on everything!

Update 30 May 1999

Just wanted to update everyone on my surgery. I went in at 8 a.m. Thursday the 27th and was home by Friday evening!!!! It turns out the doctor didn't have to replace the shunt. Instead, he just shifted it. For whatever reason, the shunt was out of place and that was causing the malfunction. So he just moved it back!! I'm actually feeling a little better, too. I'm having some headaches obviously because of the surgery and I'm really tired, but other than that, everything is great. The incision he made was in the same place as it was before, so there are no new scars on my head (which is a bonus!). Aside from just recovering from surgery, I'm feeling pretty good. A big thank you to everyone for their support and encouragement!

Update 5 Jul 1999

I have to have another surgery to fix my shunt.

The surgery I had about a month ago didn't work. The shunt still isn't working like it should.

My doctor told me he just had to move the shunt over...and when he did it started working. So he stitched me up and sent me home. I went for my post-op appointment a month later...and a CAT scan showed it wasn't working. I could tell, too. I haven't been feeling well, my right hand is still a little numb and my balance is off.

I'm scheduled to have more surgery July 15th.

My doctor couldn't really explain why this is happening. He just said shunts are so unpredictable. From all the research I've done, I think he's right. Nearly every doctor I've talked to about this problem has said the same thing.

I have a feeling he will end up replacing the whole shunt this time. Although that will be invasive, I hope he does. Maybe a brand new shunt will help take care of the problem!!

If anyone out there has had a similar experience or can share any insight, I would love to hear from them.

Update 20 Jul 1999

They replaced my shunt with a larger, thicker tube and so far, everything is OK. They only had to replace the upper portion or the portion in my brain. I was out of the hospital the next day!!!! I was very groggy after the surgery and it wasn't easy for me to get up and move around, but I did it. Apparently, the doctor was concerned about possible hemmoraging in the brain right after the surgery...but that never happened, thank God.

I'm feeling pretty good now, except for my right hand. It's numb and I'm having a very hard time moving it. I can't even really write or do anything with it. The doctor said that it was probably due to a pinched nerve in my neck or something. We'll wait a few weeks and see what happens. I'm also still EXTREMELY tired. I went out to the doctor and the grocery store today and came home and slept for two hours because it was so exhausting. I did have my stitches removed today. It's a horseshoe shaped scar on the right front portion of my head...it's not that bad really. The doctor was able to go into the same place as before, which is good.

All in all, everything appears to be fine!! Before these last surgeries, I was having some pain in my side near the shunt. I had been to the doctor and she seemed to think it was unrelated to the shunt. I can tell you since the surgeries I have had no pain in that area, which convinces me that it was due to the shunt.

So I think this latest surgery was good in many ways. Let's just hope it's the last for a while!!!!!

Update 17 Aug 1999

I had to have yet another surgery last Friday (6 August). Here's what happened...I sneezed and my head felt like it was going to explode!!! Wednesday I came home from work with the worst headache and a stiff neck. It only got worse, too. I was in so much pain and discomfort. We called the doctor, had a CAT scan almost immediately and scheduled surgery as soon as we could. The shunt still wasn't working like it should...fluid was building up and that's why I felt so bad. My right hand was/is also a little numb and weak.

The doctor pulled the shunt back from the third ventricle...there is a plan that if that doesn't work, my dr. will go in and basically add a shunt to the third ventricle. It will hook up with the main shunt to help drain the fluid. Most people have shunts in the first and second ventricle...my doctors are puzzled as to why the third ventricle isn't draining properly.

I'm feeling so much better now than I was last week. I was really feeling bad...headache, stiff neck...it was not fun at all. I can't believe how much better I feel now. My hand is still a little numb...but I'm using a stress ball to strengthen it. So... the saga continues!

Update 20 Sep 1999

I need some help. I think I'm still having some problems with my shunt. I was wondering if there is anyone else out there who has had shunt revisions and if they could share their experiences with me. I underwent the second shunt revision a few weeks ago and I'm still not feeling all that great. I question whether the shunt is working properly. I've talked with my doctor and he says what's happening to me is not all that uncommon. He says shunts are still very unpredictable.

I really trust my doctor...I think he's one of the best neurosurgeons in the country (from what I've heard). He too is stumped as to why the shunt doesn't work right and he has another plan of attack, should I need more surgery.

If you or anyone else can shed some light on these things, I would greatly appreciate it!!!

Update 15 Feb 2000

Some bad news...my shunt still isn't working properly. My doctor has suggested a procedure call 3rd ventriculostomy. He says he has an associate who has performed the procedure a number of times and he would assist in the operation. Anyway...I'm wondering if anyone out there knows anything about this. It's my understanding its less invasive than a normal shunt operation and it could really do the trick this time. Any info you or others would have would be much appreciated! As of now, I have not scheduled the surgery yet...but most likely it will be next week sometime.

Update 28 Feb 2000

I'm scheduled for a ventriculostomy March 17, which is a Friday. My doctor says I'll probably be in the hospital 3-4 days, depending on how things go... That was the soonest we could schedule the surgery, because the equipment has to come to Fort Myers from Tampa!!!!

My doctor says he's been pushing to get this equipment but the hospital has been balking...he will be using my case as an example why they need it! I am feeling better, but still not 100%...hopefully, this surgery will change that.

Update 1 Mar 2000

Wanted to let you know I am scheduled for a third ventriculostomy on March 17. I'm feeling OK, so I think I'll be able to hold out that long!! The equipment has to come to Fort Myers from Tampa, which is one reason why I have to wait until then to have the surgery. My husband and I talked with my doctor at length last night and we both are very confident in him and the procedure. In fact, my doctor said he really needs to get inside my head and check things out..there's a chance the third vent won't work. If that's the case, he will perform what's called a stereotactic procedure that following Monday. It's a long surgery (the ventriculostomy)...he said it would take about three hours. My other shunt revisions have been less than an hour. As far as the risks go...there's a less than 5% risk of hemmorage, a 2% risk of seizures, and the risk of infection is the same as a shunt.

I feel very good about this procedure. I really like this doctor...he's an associate of my primary doctor. It sounds very promising. And **hopefully** this will put an end to all these shunt revisions!!! I will keep you posted!!!

Update 31 Mar 2000

Wanted to let you and everyone else know that I just underwent my 6th and hopefully final brain surgery!!! It's the &^%$#* shunt that is still giving me problems. But this time doctors discovered a cyst the size of a golf ball that had formed near the shunt. And the cyst was pressing up against the shunt, closing it off and preventing it from doing its job. My doctor was able to puncture the cyst which will prevent it from forming again. I've been told this operation lasted several hours I'm doing OK...I have a very, very stiff neck, which my doctors say is because of all the fluid that is now able to drain off my brain.

Aside from the post surgery headaches, everything is great! I'm also having some problems with my right hand - it's a little numb and weak. It has been since my last shunt revision. It's getting better, though, which is great news. My doctor seems to think it will eventually be normal. I'm still recovering from this major surgery, which means I'm dealing with headaches, a stiff neck, and some memory problems. It's taking a lot longer for me to recover from this than it has in the past. But we are all hopefull that this is it!!!!

Update 21 May 2000

I've had to leave my job as a television news reporter to go back on disability. This last surgery really took a lot out of me and I tried to go back to work way too soon! You may remember I had a cyst the size of a golf ball removed from my brain. My doctor says it was one of the most intense surgeries he's ever done..and he said it may take me a while to really get back to "normal". I was having some problems at work-mainly memory and energy problems. We've had quite a turnover at work, so a lot of people aren't familiar with my situation and the challenges I face. In fact, I just put a note in our computer system at work about my leaving and I had several people come up to me and say they had no idea I had been through all that!!!

At this point, I may not even go back to the job that I once loved so much. This is about the fifth time I've had to leave my job for an extended period of time and I just don't have the energy to basically start all over again. Also, there have been a lot of changes at my job...changes that I'm not too fond of, frankly. I am doing some major soul searching to see if there is something out there for me. I can't just sit at home and do nothing...I know there has to be something out there for me. Since I'm going on disability, I will probably volunteer some time at the hospital.

The last few weeks have been extremely hard for me. But with the support of my friends and family I'm moving on to hopefully find something out there that interests me!!!

So...if anyone living in the Ft. Myers Florida area has any suggestions, I would love to hear from you!!

Thanks. . .

Update & Rewrite: 26 Feb 2001

I have been gone a while from the group and I wanted to give everyone a fresh perspective on what has happened and how I'm doing. This latest update is actually a rewrite of my entire experience. .

Everybody has a story to tell - some have happy endings, some don't. I don't think my story is completely over yet, so I'm not sure which category I fall under. But it's a compelling story to say the least so here it goes!

I'm a 30 year old television news reporter and anchor in Fort Myers, Florida. I am currently on disability from my job after undergoing my sixth and hopefully final brain surgery. I suffered a burst brain aneurysm while working out at the gym back in July of 1997. I ended up undergoing surgery to clip the aneurysm and surgery to place a shunt to drain the fluid that was building in my brain. I spent a total of 12 weeks in the hospital. In March, 1998 I also had to have a vocal cord implant because the aneurysm paralyzed my vocal cord leaving me with nothing more than a rough whisper for a voice. Since then, I've had four additional brain surgeries to fix the malfunctioning shunt. This last surgery (March, 2000) was pretty intense. My doctor removed a golf ball sized cyst from my brain that had been causing all the shunt malfunctions.

It hasn't been an easy road that's for sure. I was only 26 years old when the aneurysm burst. My husband and I had been married less than one year and we just started new jobs at a television station in Fort Myers, Florida. I have been told by my doctors that I was barely alive when I was admitted to the hospital - I was actually in a coma for a few hours, too. At first, they had some trouble finding where exactly the aneurysm burst. I had numerous CAT scans, MRI's, and 2 angiograms. After a few days they were able to find the source of the bleed and I underwent brain surgery to clip it. I was sent to another hospital to begin what would be weeks of physical, occupational, and speech rehabilitation. I had to learn everything from walking to eating again. I couldn't eat for several weeks because of the paralyzed vocal cord and I had no gag reflex. I was fed through a "peg" tube in my stomach.

Somehow, I was able to keep a positive attitude through all of this. I ended up having a few setbacks while I was in the hospital, but I was still convinced I would end up being OK. I remember the day I was released - it was a beautiful, warm, sunny Florida day. I was wheeled out of the hospital to my car. My mom was there, too. She had been staying with my husband for a few weeks. For someone who had been in the hospital for two months, the 15 minute trip home was so exciting!! I was recognizing almost everything which was good, because the surgeries did result in some memory deficits.

We finally arrived home at the apartment my husband and I shared. He was at his job as a television news photographer, so he couldn't be there. I opened the door to my apartment and was immediately inundated with balloons! There were about two dozen balloons all around the apartment! My husband had decorated the place to welcome me home. It was such a great surprise!

I ended up undergoing outpatient physical, occupational, and speech therapies for two months. I actually didn't mind that. It certainly kept me busy and it allowed me to get out of the house and interact with people. It was hard for me to communicate, because my voice was nothing more than a whisper because of the paralyzed vocal cord. But that would soon change.

I was released from the hospital in September 1997 but I had to wait until the following March before we could do anything about my paralyzed vocal cord. I spent the next several months doing research to find out what could be done to restore my voice to broadcast quality. I ended up finding a doctor at the Vanderbilt Voice Center in Nashville, Tennessee who could perform the surgery on my paralyzed vocal cord. The three hour surgery did wonders for my voice! I actually had to sing the alphabet for the doctor in surgery! I could finally speak again! For me, that was the biggest hurdle to overcome!!!

I ended up going back to work as a television news reporter and anchor a mere two months after that vocal cord surgery. It was amazing. No one had any idea that I had a vocal cord implant. My voice sounded so good. But there were still many hurdles to overcome - memory and energy being the two big ones. I started out just working two days a week. That just wore me out. I was so exhausted after only working those two days. I loved my job though and I thought I was pretty good at it and I wasn't ready to give up my career. It took me several months before I was able to handle a 40 hour a week job but eventually I came back full force. I was feeling good and strong and ready to take on the world! My brain, however, had a different idea.

I had been back at work for nearly a year when it all started to falter. I sneezed one morning and I felt as though my head was going to explode. Turns out that sneeze had caused my shunt to stop working, which means I was having a major build up of fluid in my head. I went back into the hospital for yet another haircut and more surgery in May, 1999. Doctors moved the shunt over just a little bit and it began working again. I was actually released from the hospital the next day! I didn't need any sort of rehabilitation this time around, but I did need a wig. I wanted to go back to work as soon as possible but a bald head isn't exactly very appealing to TV news viewers! I ended up getting a nice wig and hitting the streets as a reporter again. I was feeling pretty darn good for someone who just had brain surgery!

I was really hoping that would be it as far as hospital stays go. Unfortunately, the story doesn't end there. I ended up undergoing two additional brain surgeries in two months to fix that stupid shunt! It was not fun. I went back to work after each shunt revision thinking that was the last time. Each surgery was slowly eroding my faith. It was very hard for me to stay positive. But I did - thanks to my family and friends.

I am currently on disability from my job after my last and hopefully final surgery which took place in March of 2000. Doctors removed a golf ball sized cyst from my head - that is what had been causing all of the shunt malfunctions. I remember talking with my doctor after that surgery - he said everyone cheered in the OR when they punctured the cyst!!! Apparently, I have been the topic of conversation at my doctor's office. That doesn't surprise me given the fact three of the five doctors there have performed surgery on me!

My train of thought throughout this whole scenario has been positive. However, this last surgery has really taken its toll on me. I'm having a hard time determining what has happened and what hasn't happened. I'm not hearing voices, but I do have these rambling thoughts in my mind. I'm just trying to figure this all out. I'm not a religious person, but I believe I was put here on this earth for a reason. I just haven't figured that reason out yet!

How things have changed over the last several months! I have left my job as a television news reporter, this time for good. I am on disability yet again. I had a setback in July of 2000 and ended up in the hospital again. I kept having these thoughts about things I thought happened...turns out they didn't happen. I thought people had come over to my house to see me and they hadn't. But the most disturbing thought involved my husband. I was convinced he tried to hurt me in some way. He didn't of course, but my brain thought otherwise. All I can say now is that is all behind me. I'm taking some medicine that has helped me tremendously! I am currently looking to move on with my life by getting back into the workplace in some capacity. I've been on a few interviews which has been great experience. Overall, I'm feeling the best I've felt since this whole nightmare started!

Update 8 Nov 2001

I just wanted to send along an update to the group to let everyone know that I got a job! I have been searching for a job for sometime now and I really wasn't having any luck. I was getting very discouraged. But a little persistence paid off and I am now working at Shell Point Golf Course in the pro shop. It's quite a change from my days as a broadcaster, but its a change I am so looking forward to. I have lots of golf experience, so that is a big bonus for me! I had my first day at work last week and it seemed to go well. It's been a little overwhelming, but its like that for anyone starting a new job. I just hope my memory holds out and I hope I have the energy to do the job. My employer does not know my history nor do I really want to tell him about it. So we'll see what happens!

Other than that, I am doing great! My doc just lowered the meds I'm on and they seem to be working well. I can't even tell a difference.

Update 24 Jan 2002

I have yet another job. This time I'm working at a gym. Its the gym I work out at so I'm familiar with the surroundings and familiar with the people who work there. I just started...in fact, this is my third day on the job seems to be going well. I'm a little overwhelmed, of course, but that is to be expected. I just really hope it works out this time. The last two jobs I've had haven't worked out so well because of my memory and I hope that's not the case this time around. My memory has improved quite a bit in the last few months, so hopefully that will help.

I really feel good about this position for a number of reasons. One of them being that I work out at this gym and I'm familiar with the surroundings and the people who work there and they are familiar with me. I did explain to my boss my situation and she said she knew about it from an article that was in the paper about me a while ago detailing my situation. So I'm feeling Ok about everything...I just can't handle another failure, that's for sure.

I just wanted to let everyone know what my situation was and not to give up!!! Because I'm not giving up that's for sure!!!

Update 5 Mar 2002

My doctor has been tweaking my medications and we think we have found the right combination of drugs finally. He has put on some meds for people with attention deficit disorder and I can tell such a difference. I am feeling so much more focused and in control. I was having a really hard time at my new job grasping the concept of everything and ever since I've been on these new meds I can totally tell a difference. I just feel so much better-I am able to grasp new concepts quicker than I was before. It seems to be going well finally. I just hope this time it works! I just wanted to pass along an update to you.

Update: 18 Dec 2002

Its been two years since my last surgery and for the first time I'm finally feeling great! I have a great job that I am excelling at finally, my health is good and everything is really going well. You may recall I have had a total of about 7 brain surgeries - the last one involving a cyst being removed from my head. That one was probably the most intense surgery because after that surgery I ended up having these really weird thoughts about things that I thought happened, but they didn't...they were sort of like hallucination, but they were somewhat based in reality. They were pretty intense too.

I was convinced people had been over to see me when they hadn't....but perhaps the most disturbing thought was that my husband had tried to hurt me. That was the hardest and scariest one to deal with. I ended up in the hospital for four days as a result of these thoughts because it got so bad it scared my husband. So thanks to loads of medication now I am feeling great and doing very well. I haven't had a thought in weeks, thank God..and when I do have a thought they aren't as intense as they have been and I am able to deal with them much better now.

My memory has also gotten a lot better because I am taking some new meds that people with attention deficit disorder take...my memory and concentration have improved loads. I can tell a big difference at work - I was having some problems with some things at first, but now its a piece of cake.

So that is all my news...like I said, its nothing earth shattering, but I just wanted to send a little update along!

Happy Holidays!

Update: 12 Apr 2003

I just got some bad news. I will be losing my job here in about three weeks. I work part time at a local fitness center and there are some staffing changes taking place...I knew this was in the works, but it has been talked about for so long I was wondering if it was ever going to even happen. But it did. I am really bumming about this because this job has done so much for me...it has improved my confidence, helped improve my memory, and it has just really made me feel like I can be a part of society again.

I will be volunteering some at the hospital when my job ends so I will have something to do when I'm not working which is good, but still. I just wanted to send along an update to the group. My husband and I have talking about it and we are going to hold off on me looking for another job right away. We can afford to do that, and I still have some issues I am dealing with, so until I can get those resolved, we think this will be the best option.

Update: 13 Feb 2004

My doctor is starting to take me off my meds and so far so good! I am off one entirely and there are no problems there. The other one has been OK...its slow going and I am really nervous about it. I have been on it for a while and I just don't want anything bad to happen. They haven't taken me off that one completely, they've just reduced it and so far its going OK.

I did have a minor setback but it wasn't that big of a deal. It's the one that controls my thoughts...you may remember I had thoughts about things that I thought happened but they didn't...they were sort of like hallucinations but they were somewhat based in reality. That is the med they are taking me off of now. Wish me luck!

Update: 28 Mar 2004

I am currently going through vocational rehab (Federally funded, I believe) to try and get a job. My husband did some research one day and found I was eligible for it, so I have started that process...that might be of some interest to some other folks out there who may be in the same boat. I have just started the process so I have a feeling its going to take a while because right now we are filling out all kinds of paperwork...but I didn't even know I was eligible for this service. I have to go for some testing in a couple of weeks as part of the process. Memory and psychological.

I just wanted to pass this along to the group in case anyone else may be in the same boat!

Update: 22 Apr 2004

I don't think I sent you a note telling you about my appointment for testing for vocational rehab. It was such a trip! And exhausting! I was there from 10 in the morning until 4 in the afternoon! We did a lot of memory stuff which really sucked for me..but one thing we noticed..my memory isn't good short term, but give me like ten minutes and its fine! It was so weird!

I had to do a lot of things...they would say like ten words and have me repeat them back to them...I would have to define words for them, I had to do some math, I had to look at pictures and pick out what was wrong with them..stuff like that. I remembered doing a lot of this stuff when I was in the hospital after my aneurysm. It will be about another week before I get the results.

I think they will actually make job recommendations to me..I will die if they tell me to be a news reporter! I think they will actually help place me too but I'm not too sure on that.... Overall I think it was a good experience and I'm glad I am doing this...I just hate the waiting part!

Update: 24 May 2004

I'm going thru vocational rehab to get a job. Well I took a bunch of tests and I got my results back. They weren't good...I didn't expect them to be good, I just didn't expect them to be this bad! They estimate my IQ had dropped by about 15 points or so! That is what really upsets me...but I guess when you consider I have had seven brain surgeries, that's probably not all that uncommon.

The jobs they matched me up with were reporter/correspondent and recreation worker...two jobs I have held in the past. They said I also showed matches with food preparation worker and child care worker...which totally shocks me! I don't like to cook and I don't really like to be around kids!!! They said I also scored high in the areas of retail sales person or administrative assistant...I can deal with that!!!! I just came back from a meeting about this so the ball is rolling! Hopefully I will hear more on this soon. I am going out of town next week though. If there is anyone out there who has gotten a job thru vocational rehab, please let me know! I would love to hear from you!!!

Also..I think I sent the group a note about getting off Adderall...I am doing great! I feel fantastic! In fact, I haven't felt this good in a long time! I am sleeping better, I have more energy, I'm not as moody, I'm just doing really well. And I had also sent you a note asking for information about Namenda...well I have decided not to take it. Aricept is doing its job and I think it will continue to do its job. I just don't want to take any more meds than I have to and there's no guarantee this new one will work any better...

Ok that's all for now - Take Care...

Update: 24 May 2004

Thought I'd update you on a couple of things. I think I told you a while back I'm going thru vocational rehab to get a job. Well I took a bunch of tests and I got my results back. They weren't good...I didn't expect them to be good, I just didn't expect them to be this bad! They estimate my IQ had dropped by about 15 points or so! That is what really upsets me...but I guess when you consider I have had seven brain surgeries, that's probably not all that uncommon. The jobs they matched me up with were reporter/correspondent and recreation worker...two jobs I have held in the past. They said I also showed matches with food preparation worker and child care worker...which totally shocks me! I don't like to cook and I don't really like to be around kids!!! They said I also scored high in the areas of retail sales person or administrative assistant...I can deal with that!!!! I just came back from a meeting about this so the ball is rolling! Hopefully I will hear more on this soon. I am going out of town next week though. If there is anyone out there who has gotten a job thru vocational rehab, please let me know! I would love to hear from you!!!

Ok that's all for now - Take Care.

Update: 22 June 2004

Just got back from the doc...we are reducing Topomax. I will basically be off of it in a month, which is great! We talked a little more about Namenda. I basically told him why I didn't want to take it; the fact that I was feeling the best I have ever felt in a long time, and I just didn't want to start a new med now that I was getting off all these meds. And I mentioned the fact that my memory problems aren't due to Alzheimer's they are due to the fact that I have had seven brain surgeries! Well he said he has some patients on this med who don't have Alzheimer's, they have had closed head injuries and such, and they have benefited from it. I again told him that I wanted to get off my other meds first and then I would consider it..but not before. So that's how we left it!

So things are going well I think...its just such a slow process! He also said Namenda and Aricept work together and two can be better than one. But still...there can also be some side effects!! He's just not giving up! But right now until I'm off my other meds the answer is no. He understood. I may change my mind...but not until I'm off all these other meds! :)

Update: 21 July 2004

Just a little update for everyone..I will be off Topomax in about a month! We're decreasing the dosage to 1/2 tablet every day for two weeks then 1/2 tablet every other day for two weeks then I'm done! That leaves Effexor and Aricept as the only two meds left. And I'm also not seeing my doc now for two months! I had been seeing him every month but he said there's no need to now because I'm doing so well and getting off my meds! This is GREAT!

Another thing...I just want to mention that I had put a note out a while ago about Namenda..a new memory drug...wondering if anyone has taken it. After talking with my doctor at length about it, I am probably going to take it once I get off these other meds. I am doing Ok on Aricept..it has helped..but the research I've done shows that Aricept and Namenda together can do more.

Also..I have having some blood work done to see if I'm diabetic or if I have some thyroid problems. I have been eating a lot of sweets lately but not putting on any weight...in fact, I've had a craving for it!! Its so bad I've gotten up in the middle of the night to eat them!! Diabetes does run in my family..and so do thyroid problems! so we'll see what happens!!

I have gotten a few notes from some people questioning why I was on so many meds. I have had a total of seven brain surgeries and been in the hospital eight times. It has been a rough road for me...If you read my whole narrative, I think you'll understand!!

Update: 23 July 2004

I've been volunteering at Goodwill in their public relations office for about the past six weeks or so and things have been going great! So well, in fact, they are creating a position for me there! This is FANTASTIC! This is exactly the type of work I wanted to do when I got out of news! And Goodwill is such a great organization! I was actually using them to help me find a job and just volunteering there for something to do basically...but apparently I was doing such a good job that they've decided to create a position for me! Only thing is..because its a non-profit it will probably be what's called a contract position and will only be good through the end of the year..then they'll have to re-evaluate things and see if its worth it to budget the position for next year. But that's fine by me! That's enough time for me to prove myself and prove I can do the job!! I guess in a way I already have since they are creating a position for me...but anyway....

In case people don't know Goodwill does a LOT to help people with disabilities find jobs. Most people know Goodwill because of the stores that sell used clothing and other merchandise...well, they also have various employment programs too. Here's their website www.goodwill.org in case anyone is interested..that's the national website..from there you can find your local Goodwill!

Update: 4 August 2004

I got a job! I had been going through Goodwill's employment services to get a job..and my job counselor there suggested I volunteer in the public relations department since that is the job I want now that I am out of TV. Well I have been for about a month and just found out today that its official...they are hiring me! I'm sooooo excited because Goodwill is such a good organization dedicated to helping people with disabilities get jobs...and they do a ton of stuff that the public needs to know about!!! Everyone there is so nice and a lot of the people who work there have disabilities themselves! This is exactly the type of job I wanted now that I am out of TV too!

That's all my news! Take care...

Update: 27 September 2004

Hello from hurricane central! I have some exciting news I want to pass along to the group...

As you may know I am working public relations for Goodwill, Inc...which serves as an employment service for the disabled. Well I just found out that I have been chosen to receive an award from the mayor of Ft Myers called the Mayor's Alliance Award...the award honors people with disabilities who work and their workplaces for hiring them!!! I found out a board member for Goodwill that I just recently met submitted my name...and I was selected for this!! I am so excited about this!!!

This really makes me feel good and gives me some confidence again!!! That's all..just wanted to share the good news!!

Update: 22 October 2004

It appears its back to the OR for me! I've been having some headaches lately and a stiff neck and I can hardly use my right hand. I thought it was my shunt malfunctioning but CAT's and x-rays showed I have a cyst on my spinal cord!

We talked at length with my neurosurgeon about it..and he said if we did nothing paralysis could result so I want this taken care of! However, there are no surgeons here in Ft. Myers who can do the surgery. So I have been referred to either Shands in Gainesville or Barrow's in Phoenix. I chose Shands since I live in Florida. I don't have an appointment with there until Nov. 16...and its with Dr. Friedman.

Update: 18 November 2004

Just wanted to let you know I am scheduled for decompression surgery at Shands in Gainesville Friday, December 3. I just saw Dr. William Friedman today and talked with him at length about it. He has performed this surgery a lot, so I feel confident in his abilities. Plus he's head of the neurosurgery department at the University of Florida.

As you may remember, I was referred to him by my neurosurgeon here in Ft. Myers. I went to see him after having a stiff neck, headaches, and numbness in my right hand. After several CAT's and MRI''s, a cyst in my spine known as a syrinx was discovered. Doctors think its the result of a chiari malformation in my brain, which is a condition in which the cerebellum portion of the brain protrudes into the spinal canal. I don't really know if this was a birth defect or if it formed after the aneurysm burst. One thing we do know is it shows up on my scans I had done several years ago.

From my understanding the decompression surgery involves doctors removing part of my skull so my brain can fill up that space. That should relieve some of the symptoms. However, it may not releive them all...he isn't too sure I will get the feeling back in my hand, which sucks because I'm right handed!!! I will probably be in the hospital 3-4 days

I'm not too thrilled about having more surgery especially this time of year...but I guess I don't really have a choice. I haven't been feeling that great, so hopefully this will alleviate some of the problems!!!

Update: 7 December 2004

I'm home six days after my latest surgery. I think you all know I had some fluid in my spine called a syrinx from a chiari malformation in my brain. The doc says it was a pretty big cyst..went all the way down my spine!! I'm feeling Ok considering..I'm extremely tired but not in any pain.

I'm also having a hard time moving my right side...its numb and weak and basically useless right now. I am using a walker and cane to help me get around and will start therapy asap. I think I will regain feeling eventaully because this has happened before. I'll write more later when I feel up to it!

Update: 1 January 2005

Four weeks since my decompression surgery and I'm getting better and stronger. I'm now using canes to walk which is good. I don't know that I'm getting any feeling back in my right side really though. But I am able to do more things...therapy is helping a lot which I knew it would. It just may be longer than I thought before I'm done! I just have to build up my strength.

Emotionally I'm just doing Ok. This surgery has really affected me this time probably because I'm more aware of what's going on...where as the other surgeries I really wasn't. I've had a few meltdowns because I just can't believe I've had to start all over again.

I'm not getting any younger...I'm 34 now. I was 26 when the aneurysm frst burst. We don't have kids which is good because there's no way I could take care of them!

Update: 15 January 2005

I had a checkup with my doctor at Shands..its been a month since my decompression surgery. The cyst is basically gone! He's very pleased with how things look and especially how I'm doing. He said the numbess in my right side will probably go away with time which is more great news! And he said the syrinx probably won't and can't come back. This is the best news! And by the way, this is it. 8 surgeries is enough!

Update: 19 February 2005

I'm getting better..getting stronger and making more progress each day. I'm now using a cane and sometimes don't even use that (I'm trying to not depend on it). The pain is beginning to go away too which has been the biggest thing for me. I can honestly say this has been the most painful surgery I've had. All the research I've done about my condition indicates this is typical....and I was expecting the pain to last a long time.

My muscles are really sore today from my physical therapy..I can't believe how sore I am..but it kinda feels good! We are working on strengthening my muscles now..I've been doing some work with weights.

I am taking a couple of trips soon..going to Washington DC and going out west to Albuquerque. We will be doing a ton of walking on those trips so I want to be ready! I'm also getting more movement with my right hand and arm...I'm no longer eating left handed like I was and my handwriting is getting a little better. My strength in that arm has improved a lot according to some tests at therapy. I will be in therapy the rest of the month and will probably go next month too. We'll see....stay tuned!

Update: 26 April 2005

I'm getting better five months after my decompression surgery. I'm still in therapy...not sure how much longer I will be there. This is the longest I have been in therapy. I was in about 3 months after the very first aneurysm surgery. I think its taking a little longer this time because I am 8 years older than when the aneurysm first burst!

I've made a lot of progress..I can now walk without any help. I'm very slow, but I can do it! I've been lifting weights in rehab to increase my strength. Its helped a lot! My fine motor skills have improved a lot too. I am able to use my right hand now..its still hard because I can't really feel it. My therapists have said I probably won't get much feeling back, based on reports from my surgeon.

I'm driving now too which is a good thing! And I'm going back to work next week which will be good but tiring! I also am taking on a freelance reporting job for a closed circuit TV station at a retirement community here. In addition to all that, we are going out west to New Mexico and Colorado for a sightseeing vacation. So I have a lot coming up that I have to be ready for!

I have to say the pain is still there, which is very common for decompression surgery. Its really bad at night, after I've been laying down for a while. I think I've said it before..this has undoubtedly been the most painful surgery I have ever had. I've heard that's not uncommon. I'm just taking Tylenol and that is helping luckily!

Emotionally, this surgery has really taken its toll on me. I think if I get back to work and do something it will help. I just hate everything that's happened...and the fact it happened to me when I was so young and just starting my life. And when I think that most people end up paralyzed from this, I know I'm lucky. But still..its tough sometimes.

Update: 19 May 2005

I think I'm about to end physical therapy after 5 months! Occupational ended about 3 weeks ago. My therapists have basically said they've done all they can do for me. This may be as good as it gets. I will be left with some deficits...mainly right side weakness. But again, I know it can take a while to heal from this type of surgery..as long as a year.

I've been doing some research and found that often times stroke patients who have deficits on one side often recover because the non-damaged part of the brain makes up the work from the damaged part (if that makes any sense!). So its a process of re-training my brain I think.

My therapists have given me lots of home exercises to do so I just need to be sure I do them! That is going to be the hard part! I'm also back at work and that's going really well. Its as though I never left which is great!

Update: 16 June 2005

Its been about 6 months since my decompression surgery. I went to my neuro today because I've been feeling bad lately. Headaches, seriously back pain, and breathing problems. He says it could be one of two things...either the shunt in my spine is working too well, or the syrinx has returned. I'm having some more scans done ASAP to figure out what the deal is!

I've also been having voice issues. You may remember I had a vocal cord implant after the aneurysm burst. He said that could be caused by whatever problems are in my spine now, which was interesting... I learned that where I'm shunted in my spine is basically the control center for everything from breathing, to talking, to moving around.

Very interesting stuff, that's for sure!

I'm waiting to get more scans done so as soon as I have the results I'll pass them along!

Update: 23 June 2005

I just saw my local neurosurgeon here and we went over my recent scans. The cyst in my spine has gone down a lot since I was shunted there. But it is still there a little bit. My doc just thinks it will take a while for it to go down and we're going to monitor it.

He says it could take up to a year before I'm really feeling normal again! He didn't say too much when I told him I was in pain still...he said that's to be expected and he did give me a pain med to take. He really thinks I will be back to normal by the end of the year. He said my balance should get better as my spine heals. I just have to continue to work out which is hard when you're in pain.

I am seeing a voice doc soon for my vocal cord. He said that was a good idea.

Update: 17 November 2005

I had my 8th brain surgery about a year ago. This one was called decompression surgery. I had a syrinx, or fluid filled cyst in my spine, so surgeons went in and cut out part of my skull and placed a flexible covering called a dura patch over it. They also placed a little stent in my spine. The surgery was a success because the fluid is gone.

This was my second longest hospital stay, as I was in about 7 days. And I had to go to Shands Hospital in Gainesville, Florida for this surgery because my doctors here in Ft Myers hadn't done the surgery very much and wanted me to see an expert. I spent about 6 months in physical and occupational therapies and it helped. If I didn't do that I probably wouldn't be walking. I still have to work out and do my exercises because if I don't I can totally tell!

This has by far been one of the most painful surgeries I have had too. Its been about a year and I still am in pain. I've been back to the doctor a few times to make sure everything is Ok and it is. He says the pain is probably because the shunt is draining.

I think this surgery is taking a toll on my marriage. My husband and I were only married 9 months when the aneurysm burst. It hasn't been easy for either one of us. We have the issue of whether we want to have kids or not. I don't for several reasons, but I think he's feeling the urge to have them now. I've explained to him why I don't want to have them but I'm not sure he really understands my feelings.We have other issues too. I want to try seeing a therapist with him to work through these problems. I'm wondering how many marriages have broken up after an aneurysm or some other health problem.

Update: 6 December 2005

It seems I just can't win. Spent a night in the emergency room a few weeks ago because I had an adverse reaction to a med. This was a med I had been on for a few years. Geodon. I got better and gradually stopped it and was fine until recently. I started having symptoms again so my doc put me on a low dose of it. I wasn't feeling well one day soon thereafter. I was super tired and weak. In fact, I was in bed most of the day. I got up late in the afternoon and was on the phone with my parents when all of a sudden I couldn't talk because my tongue felt swollen. I started slurring my words, and my poor parents thought I was having a stroke. My husband was walking in from work right as this was happening and off we went to the ER. I have to say my experience there was GREAT. Saw a doc right away, gave them my history, and she decided to call in a neurologist for a consult. Had a CAT which came out fine. It was simply an adverse reaction to the med, Geodon. I found out its not uncommon to have a reaction to a med you once took. The diagnosis is a dystonic reaction secondary to medication.

They gave me Benadryl and said it wasn't life threatening. I saw my regular doctor the next day and we discussed our options. I am staying on Geodon and also taking Cogentin to fight the reaction. The other medicine options have way more side effects than Geodon and I don't want to deal with that. So far, the Cogentin is working although it knocks me out!

I also have a question for the group.I got my test results and had a high glucose and cl reading from my bloodwork. Does anyone know if this is a precursor to diabetes?

Update: 6 January 2006

Thought I'd post an update. I'm doing better now that the holidays are over! I never realized how stressful they can be and how stress doesn't agree with me anymore. I started having those thoughts about things that I thought happened but they didn't...sort of like hallucinations but based in reality. It started again, after about a year's absence. I saw my psychiatrist who started me on Geodon again. I had an adverse reaction to it and spent the night in the ER.I went back to see him the next day and decided to stay on the med but take another to fight the reaction. So far so good.

I had another appointment today and I am going to continue Geodon for a little while longer.My husband is out of town for a few days so that is one reason why I am staying on it for the time being. He says this is common...stress can trigger these things. It sucks, but what choice do I have? I think I will eventually be OK, its just taking some tweaking!

Update: 22 April 2006

I am currently undergoing tests to see if I have sleep apnea. I am not sleeping at night because I can't breathe. I wake up several times gasping for air and when I finally get out of bed I'm so exhausted I have to lay down at some point. I've done research and discovered sleep apnea is a very common problem for people who have had decompression surgery, like I had a year and a half ago.

I haven't been too pleased with my GP who has been treating me for asthma, even though I've been telling him this isn't asthma related. He finally sent me home with a monitor to determine my overnight oxygen levels. I will see him next week to get the results.

On another note, the pain is getting better. I don't have to take pain pills as often which is good. I'm able to work out and exercise like I used to without being in pain later which is great!!!

More news as I get it!!!

Update: 5 May 2006

I recently was the subject of another article in the News-Press.Com. I've been named Achiever of the Year for Goodwill this year and that's what its about!

Update: 14 June 2006

I have been having trouble breathing when I sleep so I had a sleep study done. I got the preliminary results today which showed a significant drop in my oxygen levels at night. The doctor is diagnosing central sleep apnea, but I have to have an EEG to find out for sure. I figured it was apnea because it only happens at night when I sleep or lay down. I'm not snoring I just can't breathe. I'm fine during the day. There are two types of apnea...central and obstructive. Central is when there's a short in the brain circuitry so to speak affecting breathing. Obstructive means there's a physical problem with breathing.

I'm sure this is a side effect of my decompression surgery because I never had a problem with it before. I'm going to contact my doctor who did the surgery or my local neurosurgeon and see what they think.

I don't know what we'll do to remedy this problem. We haven't gotten that far yet.

I just want to get some sleep!!

If anyone has any thoughts please let me know.

Update: 22 June 2006

I have just been diagnosed with central sleep apnea. I had a sleep study done a few weeks ago where it was discovered I stopped breathing 20 times in a 5 hour period. That's relatively not bad in the apnea world but more than I would like. My doctor thinks its because my brain is just not telling my body to breathe. I have to go for another study where I'll be fitted with a bpap machine. A CPAP is more commonly prescribed but that pumps air into your nose all the time. The BiPAP only pumps air when needed. I am planning on calling my neurosurgeon and letting him know and I want to get his thoughts on things. I have to think this is a side effect of my decompression surgery because I don't really fit the profile of someone with apnea. I'm young and not overweight. (I called and they said no they didn't think one had to do with the other.)

I've also had to start taking the anti-psychotic med again because I started having thoughts. You may remember I had delusional thoughts a few years back after one of my surgeries. I was on a med, then was able to get off it. I had to restart it recently however. We've been lowering the dose because I am having some side effects from the med such as facial twitching and other involuntary movements. My doctor has talked to me about switching meds, but I don't want to because of the side effects associated with other meds. I know this one works and I don't notice the side effects so I'm not going to change.

I'm going to make some calls tomorrow to my neurosurgeon to get his thoughts on this. If anyone out there has any thoughts or similar experiences, please let me know!

Update: 9 July 2006

I've been keeping you up to date about my latest health concerns and I have more to add. I've been having trouble breathing when I sleep and went for a sleep study to see if its apnea. I can't remember what I told you, but apparently I stopped breathing a number of times, but I was told it was normal.

Regardless my doctor set me up for another sleep study but this time I was hooked up to a bipap machine to help me breathe. I have to say it worked! I can't believe how much better I was breathing and how much better I slept. I was hooked up to a bipap machine, which is similar to a c-pap which is prescribed for obstructive sleep apnea.

I still have to meet with my doctor to go over the latest results, but hopefully I'll get one of these machines soon!!!!

Update: 23 August 2006

I just wanted to update everyone on my latest battle. I was diagnosed with sleep apnea, which just baffles me because I don't seem to fit the criteria for having it. I have been sleeping with a cpap machine, not a bipap like I first thought. I can't believe how much better I feel! I have to say, wearing something over my face at night pumping air has taken a bit of an adjustment. I have been back to the place several times to get fitted for different masks to see what works best. I think I've found the right one.

Its funny because I'm actually dreaming again which I think means I am getting a good nights sleep. I'm also doing a lot better at work, which makes me realize not getting sleep can affect that. I didn't realize my problems were because I was so tired!!!

Just wanted everyone to know that I'm winning the latest battle!!!

Update: 3 November 2006

Its been nearly two years since my decompression surgery, which was designed to get rid of the fluid in my spine. I'm scheduled to undergo some MRI's because I've been having a lot of trouble moving around and the doc wants to make sure the cyst in my spine hasn't come back. The pain is pretty much gone, which is a good thing. This by far has been one of the most painful surgeries I have ever had ( I've had a bunch so I think I know what I'm talking about). The last time I saw my doc there was still a little fluid in my spine so I'm worried there's more in there and the shunt in my spine isn't working.

I've also been diagnosed with sleep apnea which is puzzling because decompression surgery often alleviates apnea symptoms. I've been using a c-pap and I can't believe how much better I feel. But still we're a little puzzled as to how I could have developed apnea because I don't fit the profile.

And of course this is all happening as the holidays approach. I have the greatest timing don't I???

I'm still at work and its going great. There are times when the delusional thoughts surface but I have a very understanding boss who helps me through them. I just had some bloodwork done and my cholesterol has dropped which is good. It was borderline high but with a combination of diet and exercise its back to normal.

I'm wondering if anyone out there has had decompression surgery or has had delusional thoughts. I'm beginning to see the delusional thoughts can be common after brain surgery.

Thanks for your help.

Update: 14 November 2006

I recently saw my neurosurgeon because I've been having trouble moving around and we wanted to make sure the syrinx (cyst) in my spine hasn't come back. After a long time in the MRI machine, we got the results today. Everything is fine thank God! I actually have a spine again! You may remember I spent 6 months in physical therapy after my last surgery and it did wonders. I am going to restart it for about a month and see what happens.

I have to say I have the best neurosurgeon. He spent a lot of time with me explaining everything and going over my scans. Speaking of the scans I could wallpaper a room with all the CAT's and MRI's I have now!!!

I consider this a checkup...we just wanted to make sure everything was OK. And it is!

I'm actually not surprised or disappointed I have to restart therapy. I was told when I finished if I needed to come back, just call.

Update: 20 December 2006

I wanted to pass along an update. I have just completed 2 months of occupational and physical therapy. I was having a hard time moving around and went and saw my neurosurgeon to make sure everything was OK. He took some scans and says I look great which was a relief. I asked him if he would write me a script for some physical therapy then. I've been though both twice before and it helped tremendously. I started going and forgot just how tough it is. Today was my last day and when I asked my PT if I had improved his response was "are you kidding me? There's a world of difference!!" That was nice to hear. I consider this a refresher course. I don't consider it a step backward. Now that I'm done I just need to be sure I do the exercises at home, which is easier said than done.

Just thought I'd pass that along. I hope if anyone out there is in PT or considering it, they read this and do it!!!

Update: 26 March 2008

More surgery. This time it wasn't brain surgery but gall bladder surgery!!!! I had been having some pain in my right side for a period of time and was just blowing it off thinking it was nothing. But one night after dinner it came right back up and it was really intense so my husband took me to the ER. I was there for a while as you can imagine and was told I had an infected gall bladder....they basically said here are some pain pills call this guy the next morning. I went home and had a horrible night. We called the doctor the next day and couldn't get an appointment for 2 weeks!!!! there was no way I could wait two weeks so we went back to the ER where they admitted me. I had surgery the next day and was released after about 4 days in the hospital. There was some concern because I was so infected and the infection was near the shunt, so they tested the spinal fluid to make sure everything was ok and it was.

I have to undergo what's called infusion treatments now every day for the next two weeks. I have a permenent iv in my arm and I get hooked up to meds each day for a half hour. It apparently was that infected and they want to be sure the infection hasn't spread.

This totally sucks for a number of reasons. I just started a new job and now I'm having trouble moving around again. Once I get rid of the pain and get a little stronger, I'll start wokring out hard again and hopefully get some strength back!!!!

Discussion, comments, or questions: Amy Ofenbeck

Top of page

Return to contents