I got my MRI results on October 2, 2015 at 3:20 am.

My diagnosis: I have a congenital defect called Chiari Malformation Type I, my cerebral spinal fluid outflow is being blocked by my cerebellar tonsils protruding through my foramen magnum. So in other words , my skull is too small for my brain. (That’s where my smarts come from!) This is a rare disease and effects 1 in 1000. This is what is causing the pain and tingling in my arms and legs. Everything has finally matched up and I am relieved to have an answer finally. So what does this mean?

I have to undergo decompression surgery to allow the CSF to circulate like it’s suppose to, a type of brain surgery. It luckily isn’t too invasive as they will only have to remove the bone at the back of the skull and spine. The dura overlying the tonsils will be opened and a patch will be sewn to expand the space.The goal is to relieve compression of the brainstem and spinal cord, and to restore the normal flow of cerebrospinal fluid.

The surgery will take 2-3 hours and I will be in the hospital for 2-4 days for recovery.

I do not yet have a scheduled date as I need to meet with my neurologist and my neurosurgeon.

Purple is the color to support Chiari Malformation Awareness, so I’ve changed my profile images to purple to raise awareness about this rare disease.

If you have the ability please share or purchase one of these shirts I designed to share awareness about Chiari Malformation and to support me in my recovery, it would be much appreciated.

https://www.bonfirefunds.com/cassandras-chiari

Much Love,

Cass