This is your brain...

 I have always had more luck explaining all this stuff through pictures.  Trying to tell someone I have a kinky brain stem doesn't always go over well :)   But I do...and it explains a lot.  The image below is that of a normal brain with a fabulously...

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Basilar invagination

Basilar invagination is a developmental anomaly of the craniovertebral junction in which the odontoid abnormally prolapses into the foramen magnum. It is often associated with other osseous anomalies of the craniovertebral junction, including atlanto-occipital assimilation, incomplete ring of C1, and hypoplasia of the basiocciput, occipital condyles,...

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Chiari Malformation (kee-AHR-ee mal-for-MAY-shun)

Who in the world decided not to pronounce this word correctly was just wanting to screw with people... I think...  If you haven't guessed by now these posts are really my back story....eventually I will be caught up.   But I think its important for anyone looking for answers. So fast forward a year between being told to "just wait and...

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Strange signs that something is afoot...

In my previous post I mentioned my quick google skillz after being dignosed with both Chiari and Basilar Invagination but I want to step back in time a bit so you can understand what got me there...I wonder if the journey of others is similar? When I was 12 it began with excruciating headaches and the doctor said... migraines! Take two of these and...

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Number two!  I'm on a roll! So, my journey for those who are interested.... When you are diagnosed with something so rare it seems like you are all alone....it did for me at least! If you are anything like me within 10 minutes of hearing this crazy word Chiari by my doctor...who...

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So I guess introductions are in order...

My name is Courtney.  I live in Wilmington NC, which is the most wonderful place in the world if you ask me!  I am married with children :)  I live with a wonderful husband and my two beautiful daughters.  While I consider myself to be technically very smart this is my first go at blogging....so bear with me while I get the hang...

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