So.... Derek and I met Dr. Boggan today. Dr. Boggan was very kind and friendly. He feels that due to my complete lack of CSF flow behind the brain Decompression Surgery is not just recommend but really needed.
I feel hopeful. I've always known that things could get worse but I finally feel like I'm doing some thing that kind (long term) make things better. I am aware that recovery will be long and hard with ups and downs. Please remember that surgery is not a cure and I feel like I have a realistic expectation for life after surgery. I was told that I should expect to have surgery end of May or beginning of June and I should have an actual date for pre-op and surgery in about a week. Chiarians that have had surgery are lovingly referred to as a Zipperhead because of the appearance of the scar after surgery. I like that there is a name for, it feels more like owning it as opposed to being embarrassed by it. My hair is longer so once I don't have to have it pulled back, so it doesn't irritate the incision, it probably will not be visible at all or that's what Dr. Boggan said. It sort of feels like it will be a badge of honor showing I made it! The scar is just proof I made it, I was tougher, I was braver, I was more than my Chiari!
Want to see some Zipperheads? click here
Everybody has a different size scar and different amount of hair that is shaved. If you see some and think AHHH they have no hair, don't panic. Many people choose to either cut their hair very short or shave it themselves before surgery. I hear it is itchy and obnoxious but I think I'm going to try really hard to hold out and just let the Dr. cut/shave what's needed. I'm already giving up part of my head, I would like to keep as much as I can! :)
I will let you all know when I have an actual date, until then thank you all for your continued support.
- Savanna
No comments:
Post a Comment