A Third Chance to Heal

Hey Everyone, I'm Back… Again.

I’m sure many of you are wondering why I’m starting another GoFundMe after my recent surgery. Unfortunately, I need your help once again. If you’re not caught up on my medical journey, feel free to check out my previous GoFundMe here for the full details.

On July 1, 2024, I underwent my second Chiari Malformation surgery. The procedure went well, and I was relieved when the surgeon came out to tell my mom everything was a success. I spent several days in the hospital, recovering and trying to manage pain. My mom stayed with me for two weeks as I struggled with nausea, stiff neck muscles, and sleepless nights. The pain was overwhelming, and I couldn’t help but feel defeated. But I held onto hope that this surgery would be my ticket to living migraine-free.

After a few weeks of rest and recovery, I got the staples out on July 16. The incision was healing beautifully, and even my hair was starting to grow back. Gradually, I regained some strength, and the migraines I had lived with for so long were finally gone. For the first time in years, I felt joy in simple things—driving again, going out to eat with friends, and just living without pain. It was a huge relief to feel some normalcy return to my life.

On August 16, I was cleared to return to work, albeit with some restrictions, and my first day back was August 20. It seemed like everything was going great... until it wasn’t. Suddenly, I began experiencing intense pressure in my head at random moments. Every time I blew my nose, coughed, or even laughed too hard, I would be hit with excruciating pain. It felt like an aneurysm every time, and this pain became more frequent, more intense.

I started waking up with unbearable pressure in my head, feeling dizzy as I walked, struggling to function. I couldn’t ignore it any longer and went for an MRI on September 20. The results showed I had developed a pseudomeningocele—a tear in my dura, the protective membrane around my brain, causing cerebrospinal fluid to build up where it shouldn’t. This fluid was responsible for the constant pain, pressure, and other symptoms.

The doctor attempted to drain some of the fluid on the spot, and while it wasn’t a pleasant experience, I felt some immediate relief. Unfortunately, just 24 hours later, the fluid came back, even worse than before. After discussing this with my neurosurgeon, he confirmed my biggest fear: I would need another surgery.

The thought of going through this all over again was terrifying. This surgery will take place at the same incision site and will involve placing a drain to reroute the fluid to a safer area. I’ll be hospitalized for five days and out of work for at least two months. While the surgeon is in the area, he will also check the previous surgery site to make sure everything is still intact and healing properly.

I’ve been putting off sharing this news because I needed time to process it. This wasn’t something I was ready to talk about until I fully understood what was happening to me. I apologize for keeping everyone in the dark for so long, but I needed time to come to terms with this myself.

Now, as I begin to prepare for another surgery, I’ve started this secondary GoFundMe to help cover the expenses that are ahead. The surgery is scheduled for May 2025, giving me time to raise the funds I’ll need to cover my rent, bills, and living expenses while I recover and finish my semester of school. The financial strain of this situation is something I can’t manage on my own, especially given the nature of my job and current health challenges.

I can’t thank you all enough for the kindness, generosity, and support you’ve shown me during my previous surgery. Without your help, I wouldn’t have made it through. It breaks my heart to ask for help again, but I truly need it. The financial burden is overwhelming, and every contribution, no matter how small, will make a difference.

Please consider sharing my story with your friends, family, or anyone you think might be willing to help. The more people I can reach, the better chance I have of getting the support I need during this unexpected chapter in my life.

Thank you from the bottom of my heart for your continued love, support, and generosity. I will be sure to keep you all updated as new information becomes available.

With deep gratitude,

Brittany