my
story
I was diagnosed with Obstructive Hydrocephalus at the age of 18, from a traumatic brain injury (TBI).
I was not born with Hydrocephalus, as most are.
Unfortunately, this disorder is not curable but can be maintained by a medical device known as a Ventriculoperitoneal Shunt, (VP Shunt).
I started recording my journey because after being diagnosed with Hydrocephalus with the implantation of a VP shunt at 18 - I wanted to record what I dealt with.
Since my last round of surgeries in 2019, I continue to experience migraines and headaches. As of August 2024, my shunt is still operating well and is in good health. (Shunts have a higher failure rate than other medical devices.)
Symptoms I Experienced:
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Numbness in extremities
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Headaches / Migraines
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Could not wake up easily
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Always tired
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Fatigue
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Blurred vision
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Double vision
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Sensitive to light
My traumatic brain injury does not define me.
What caused my Hydrocephalus? Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
What was the TBI from? Domestic Violence resulting in a head injury
The TBI occurred on June 14th, 2011, and the discovery of my diagnosis was not discovered until April 12th, 2012.
After my headaches gradually turned into constant migraines, I knew something was not right. I could not wake up when my son would cry. Oh yeah, I was 8 weeks pregnant on June 14th, 2011, and had my son in January 2012.
Because my body had gone through so much, I believed I was in chronic stress and trying to recover. Shortly after Noah was born, a CT scan was issued.
Side note: I did not disclose the situation out of fear and not knowing the repercussions. After my second brain surgery in 2015 due to my shunt malfunctioning - I knew this was my life from then on. Always needing a shunt revision sooner or later. There is no cure.
I started speaking out.
It is not easy living with Hydrocephalus.
Despite the periodic headaches, I am able to live a healthy life. I do have restrictions which is probably a good thing because I am a thrill seeker. The rollercoaster rides and bucket list to skydive is no longer obtainable but we can get the adrenaline pumping other ways - for instance, let's conquer my fear of deep water and confined spaces. Cave crawling? Yes! Swim hole with friends? Yes! Hiking 20 miles? I am doing it!
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