Track Friday 2016 for Conquer Chiari

A Chiari Malformation is an incurable neurological disorder where the back of the brain (cerebellum) is pushed elow the skull and into the spinal column causing pressure on the brain and spinal cord. This causes a variety of symptoms; headaches, numbness in extremities, balance issues, dizziness, pain, visual issues, difficulty speaking and swallowing, among others.
The only current "treatment" for Chiari is brain surgery to expand the area in the back of the skull to allow more room for the brain and the surrounding fluid (CSF).  It is not a cure and symptoms may not be relieved-often most are not-and may return.

I had surgery in 2012 after suffering for years with symptoms that were attributed to many things-not Chiari- until the symptoms became so severe they were debilitating. I was fortunate to finally find doctors that were experienced and able to diagnose and help treat my condition but due to years of misinformation I have permenant brain damage and daily symptoms.

It is my goal to raise awareness of this condition so that others may not go undiagnosed for so long. Most often patients go years being misdiagnosed while their condition deteriorates. I am excited by the opportunity to raise money to fund much needed research about Chiari Malformation as much is not known or understood.

If you would like to learn more about Chiari Malformation and the research being done, please visit the website for the charity I am raising money for:

www.conquerchiari.org