I know it can be tough dealing with a shunt system but it will get better. I have had 11 surgeries before by 5th bday and then i was good for 4 years and had to get it revised at the age of 9 since I outgrew it and have been problem free for over 11 years now. I get headaches and neck pain that bother me from time to time but nothing too serious that the doctors say requires surgery. I am still going on with the same shunt and everything is good. It takes time to heal all wounds and pains but it will get better. I am also glad that I have found this site because I feel as if I can not relate to anyone in my area since im not comfortable talking about it but I hope these words will help you and give you more hope that things will get better.