The C&S Patient Education foundation (known as Conquer Chiari) is a non-profit organization dedicated to improving the experiences and outcomes of Chiari patients through education, awareness, and research. We've found their website and educational materials very helpful.
Recently, Maggie's younger sister Katie has begun to experience similar symptoms and was diagnosed with a Chiari Malformation last month. Katie's "herniation" (the part of the cerebellum descending down her brainstem) is not as severe as Maggie's. If her symptoms do not worsen, she may not need surgery this year (or ever). This is our prayer.
With two girls now afflicted by Chiari, our family has been motivated to support efforts to raise awareness and research this disease. Conquer Chiari sponsored a Walk Across America today to raise money toward these goals. We participated and had a blast. The event raised over $13,000, and our "Team Reinhart" raised $1,000 of that. Thank you, thank you for your generous support, love, and care.
The girls had a blast at the event where they got to meet other Chiari kids, families, and ... some Washington Redskins cheerleaders. We look forward to continuing support for this cause and organization. Here are some highlights from the day:
Maggie & Katie with 2 Washington Redskins CheerleadersMaggie "getting down" at the Chiari Walk event
The event looks like it was great fun! Dawson loves the Cha Cha Slide, next time Dawson will dance with you Maggie!! The girls look just beautiful and so grown up. I am so happy the event was a success and Team Reinhart made such a wonderful contribution. We are so thankful that Maggie is doing so well and is no longer suffering with such pain. We will pray for the same with Katie. We love and miss you all.
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