Maggie has had a fair weekend. We are learning that her recovery is not really a continuous progression toward back to normal. Its more up and down. She has some days or periods of the day where she seems herself and then times when she is fairly miserable. So, we are all taking it one step at a time. Today was a good day, and Maggie even asked if she go back to school for a half day tomorrow! We are hoping to take that step this week!
Ironically, there have been some interesting Chiari related stories in the media recently...
In this clip from the local Baltimore Fox station, Dr. Ben Carson (lead surgeon on the team with Maggie's Dr. Ahn) talks about an upcoming biographical movie about his life's story. The girl (MacKenzie) in the clip had Chiari decompression surgery the same time as Maggie. She was 3 doors down from Maggie in the Children's Center, and they became friends while in the hospital together. Her mom (Kerri) and Shelley had also met at an online Chiari group prior to the surgery. Kerri has been a great help and support to Shelley through this.
Dr. Ben Carson on Fox45
On Friday morning, ABC Good Morning America featured a story about a 3 year old Chiari boy with serious symptoms who went undiagnosed for a long time. Finally, with the correct Chiari diagnosis and the same decompression surgery as Maggie, his life is dramatically different! (Note that according to our experience, the risks and prognosis given in the report are exaggerated).
Chiari on Good Morning America
How kind of God to gift men like Dr. Carson and Dr. Ahn with the knowledge and skill to treat Chiari and other brain related issues. We are so thankful for them and that Maggie's symptoms were not extreme and her diagnosis so quick. We are continuing to hope and pray for results similar to Rhett on ABC.
Hey guys! Thanks so much for making all these update posts, Don (I'm assuming Don is Daddy R)! It's been a great way to keep track of what's going on. We've been praying for you guys and for Maggie. -Robin (& Leah)
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