Hi, my name is Courtney. I’m a 31-year-old public educator based in Arlington, VA.
In 2018, I began experiencing neurological symptoms that gradually began to affect my daily life. In October 2024, after a major flare-up, I was diagnosed with Chiari malformation, which is a condition where part of the brain extends into the spinal canal. This has created significant pressure on my brain and spinal cord and, in my case, has created a near-total block of the flow of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). CSF helps to protect the brain and spine from injury by absorbing shock, alleviating pressure, delivering nutrients, circulating hormones, removing waste, and so much more.
As a result, I’ve been dealing with daily chronic migraines, nerve pain, dizziness, fainting, nausea, blurred and temporary loss of vision, weight loss, muscle atrophy, and occasional temporary paralysis on my left side. This has also created additional neck, spine, and back concerns, including thoracic kyphosis and degenerative disc disease, due to the functional compensation from my Chiari malformation symptoms. Despite extensive physical therapy and pain management, my symptoms have continued to progress, making it harder to get through each day.
After consulting with two neurosurgeons, I’m scheduled to undergo Chiari decompression surgery, a procedure that will relieve pressure and restore the flow of spinal fluid. It’s a major surgery that involves removing part of my skull, cervical vertebrae, and opening the dura mater of my brain to create more space for my cerebellum and spinal cord.
I’ve done all I can to prepare: saving for months, countless calls with benefits and insurance. I’ve even picked up part-time employment and Instacart shifts on weekends and holidays, when my body allows. I’m close to covering the out-of-pocket cost for the surgery, but I could really use some help to close the gap to ensure it is covered so I can focus on my recovery without worrying excessively about the financial burden.
Recovery is expected to take 3–4 weeks of full-time rest, followed by gradual increases in physical activity, neurology check-ins, and physical therapy. As someone who works in public education, this is the best time of year for me to take this step and prioritize my health.
Any support, whether through a donation or sharing this with others, would mean a lot to me. Your support will allow me to get the treatment I need and allow me to focus on prioritizing my recovery and health.
Thank you for your time and consideration,
Courtney