I'm sooooooo new here. I stumbled upon this website by using Chiari complications as my search. I took some time to read some of the posts that came up within my search results. I'm not even super acquainted with posts/threads/stickys/etc.

Please pardon my lack of correct terminology for explanation.

My friend is currently in St. Jude's near Brea. Suffering from violently vomitting (no food w/in her body), her body was twitching (now under control), intense head pain and no sleep. She had surgery back in 9/07 which included her C1 removal and cow's heart placed in (typical). Prior to her admit in hospital this time around she had fainted twice at home. The hospital seems unable to get her out of pain at this time. Her MRI's include negative results as well as her series of x-rays. Her spinal fluid test which was done early May returned with negative results. However, her new neuro doc said that there's no way results could come back in a day or two. Usually takes 5-6 weeks for bacterial testing.

Her husband is by her side. I believe he is starting to wear down. It's too much to see her in the condition she's in. They have 5 children: ages 9, 8, 6, 3, 1 1/2.

I'm trying to seek information and be actively involved because they are exhausted. I'm trying to remain strong and focused for them.

If anyone has Chiari help please post. I have to know how I can help, deliver info. to them, seek info, seek the best dr. (her surgery was done by Dr. Mapstone in OK), help out at home, help them with organization for stability during this time, etc.