Mum’s Surgery Fund

Mum was diagnosed with Chiari Malformation 1, Syringomyelia and Fibromyalgia five and a half years ago. These conditions cause her chronic pain all over her body, fatigue and severe headaches amongst many other symptoms. Since diagnosis, she has undergone Posterior Fossa Decompression surgery in March 2014 with the hope of relieving some of her symptoms and preventing the progression of her Chiari Malformation. This procedure provided Mum with some relief initially but eventually her symptoms returned and began to worsen. Her condition affects every aspect of her life and has ultimately resulted in her giving up work.

There is very limited interest in and knowledge about Chiari Malformation as it is such a rare disease. Mum has struggled to get help since diagnosis and has exhausted all available treatment options with little to no improvement. After extensive research, we became aware of the Chiari Institute in Barcelona. The Institute offers a different type of surgery which is less invasive and has had great success in treating others with the same conditions. The procedure isn’t available in the UK and this a potentially life-changing opportunity for Mum.

This surgery is self-funded, and costs approximately £20000, excluding flights and one week’s accommodation in Barcelona. We believe this is the only remaining option to improve Mum’s quality of life. Any contributions towards this cost would be greatly appreciated!