Caitlyn's Story

In February this year, I was diagnosed with a Chiari malformation, a structural condition where the lower part of the brain extends into the upper spinal canal. This can place pressure on the brainstem and disrupt the normal flow of cerebrospinal fluid, causing severe headaches, neck pain, and balance problems.

In February, I underwent a six-hour decompression surgery to correct the condition. The procedure involved removing a small section of bone at the back of my skull to relieve pressure on my brain and create more space for cerebrospinal fluid to flow normally.

Unfortunately, following the surgery, I developed surgical meningitis. As a result, I had to undergo a second six-hour operation to reopen and clean the wound, as well as have an external drain fitted. During this time, I remained in hospital under close observation.

After eight days, I was informed that my body was unable to drain the fluid effectively on its own, and fluid had begun to build up in one of the chambers of my brain. This required a third six-hour operation to fit a permanent shunt to drain the excess fluid.

Throughout this difficult period, I underwent a total of seven CT scans and two MRI scans, in addition to the three major operations, as my doctors closely monitored my condition and treatment.

Despite the surgery, I remained very unwell. Although I was discharged from hospital, I was readmitted the following day with severe headaches, migraines, and sickness. After spending another week in hospital and undergoing several adjustments to the shunt settings, I finally began to feel better.

I am delighted to say that I am now back at work and that all of the symptoms caused by my Chiari malformation have completely resolved.

I would like to sincerely thank The Ben Saunders Foundation for giving me the opportunity to stay at the Lodge for a peaceful and restorative weekend break with my family and best friend. It will provide the perfect environment for me to relax, recover, and enjoy this important stage of my recovery journey.

I am incredibly grateful for the support and kindness shown to me during what has been a very challenging time for me and my family, and I would like to thank everyone who visited me, FaceTimed, and kept in touch offering encouragement throughout my recovery.