If I can help just one person

I blog to tell my story. To spread hydrocepdalus awareness. When I learned about my condition in 2003 I knew nothing. I had never heard of the word hydrocephalus but apparently had this condition since 1983. I have links to different shunt types on the right of my blog and in the next column I have links to support groups I have found over the years that have helped me to find my way through my condition.

These days I'm unable to work and living on a limited income. I try to share helpful hints to saving and how to use web sites and coupons to your benefit. Sometimes I have been sent information to promote but I check out things to make sure it is a good site before I pass it along to my friends.

I'm thankful everyday to have my home paid for and be debt free. But I still have the doctor bills and hospital bills and I know my readers do too so I'm looking into different things to help me and to help you to save and make life a bit easier. I want to blog more often on this to help. I have decided not to tell everyone how to use coupons I will give links to great sites that I go to that give the 101 of couponing and that way my friends will find my secret places I go to find buys too.

I'm also fighting to get my energy back with my protein diet. When I try new drinks I will share with you what I think about them and how they taste. A lot of hydro peeps have been asking about the shakes. I have felt horrible for 9 years now.

I also love my gardening. I have iris' all over my front yard. I am looking forward to getting to start on a new iris garden this year with my new found energy.

Would you have ever known from my past 500 blogs I am a fitness and exercise freak. Everyone knows I have my swim aerobics 3 times a week. But before I started having complications from my hydrocephalus I was very fit and healthy. I exercised all the time. I was an addict. I had a gym membership wore the cute little clothes. Had the tight body. Ate the right foods. I want that back! Fatigue has put weight on me and not being able to get out of bed.

I was stuck in my bed for four months waiting to have my last surgery which was in August of 2010. I'm feeling better and I want to help my followers feel better and live better.

I feel bad that I'm feeling better sometimes because so many of you are still hurting but maybe it's because I am getting a break so I can help someone that needs me.

I rather it be me than someone else.

Thunder storms and tornado warnings

Talk about a rainy day. I skipped swimming since it was going to be so bad. I made a good choice. My front yard ended up looking like a lake.

There were tornado warnings. I grabbed pepper under one arm and ginger under the other and ran to momma and daddy's basement and watched the trees bend over for a while.

I was so surprised that the storm didn't make my headache worse. Its a really strange feeling to not have pain the same way. I so hope my other hydro peeps can find this relief.

I love cork boards and bulletin boards

I can't keep up with numbers and passwords. I have cork boards all around my computer walls. I need to replace some because the push pins have really worked on them over time. I'm in heaven. I found the play ground of bulletin boards http://www.bulletinboardcompany.com/ I have all my secrets pasted on these walls. They are lined in history like my facebook wall HaHa!

I found a mauve fabric bulletin board http://www.bulletinboardcompany.com/fabric-boards-trend-fabric-bulletin-boards-with-wrapped-edge.html to put in my bedroom with my medicines listed in case I ever have to call 911 it is all listed and I don't have to try to think of it all.

With memory issues like I have and many of my friends have from hydrocephalus having these boards around the house with reminders really help. I hate walking into a room trying to remember why I'm there or what was that number was I needed.

Thank you
http://www.bulletinboardcompany.com/
**This is a sponsored post. I was paid to add this to my blog. However, the opinions expressed belong entirely to me, Monica Ball

Comparing prices at become.com

What is become.com? It is a site that helps customers find the lowest price on hundreds of items. They scan the Internet and do the searching through thousands of competitors to find the best deals for you.

I was checking out this amazing site I found http://www.become.com/ Shopping and making plans to enclose my deck I would love to add my work out equipment and a lounge area. I'm shopping and I find http://home-and-garden.become.com/mini-fridge Just what I need to make this a perfect lounge area. I mean really who wants to have to leave a screened in deck to go get a drink.

Here is a kitchen project I have been needing to finish toohttp://home-and-garden.become.com/kitchen-pantry-cabinet I took out a cabinet and I need the extra storage space in my kitchen.


I don't drink but I love the way wine glasses look hanging from a bar and I have the perfect open bar going into my living room http://home-and-garden.become.com/hanging-wine-glass-rack

http://home-and-garden.become.com/home-bread-slicer If I'm making Michelle's friendship bread I for sure need this. So I have done all this shopping and I am now hooked on http://home-and-garden.become.com/

Everyone knows I do not pay full price for anything and if I can find a site that can help me to find items I need and pay less I am going to do it and I am going to tell my friends about it. You can check out the links for yourself to see the savings.

Become.com even has a coupon section
http://coupons.become.com/;jsessionid=8227C479E305FCC0B72613047FFF832A



**This is a sponsored post. I was paid to add this to my blog. However, the opinions expressed belong entirely to me, Monica Ball.**

Daily Hydrocephalus Factoid

Daily Hydrocephalus Factoid

While having a writting block I went to Lizard's page for inspiration. Did you know in the first @ years 50% of shunts will fail.



The Holter shunt was the first one-way valve shunt, patented by John Holter in the early 1950s after his infant son, Casey, had little success with the technology available at the time. Casey died as a young child, but Holter's shunt has since saved millions and millions of lives of those with hydrocephalus.

Coupons

southernsavers.com

I am about to explode!

So I wake up this morning scared to move because I remember all I did yesterday. I'm even scared to open my eyes. But of course my bladder forces me to have to move from my bed to the bathroom. But something is wrong.... I mean really wrong! My headache is not hurting any worse than it has been. I can't believe it I can walk too. My muscles are kinda tender but I'm not all that sore. Am I really getting my strength and endurance back? I am thanking God this morning because I never thought I would see this day again.

I just hope I can reach out to as many hydro peeps as possible. I know it took finding the right shunt that worked for me. The OSV II non programmable then adding the shunt assist (anti-syphon)

I'm not back the way I once was but for 9 years I have feared living a very painful, dependent, lonely life. Protein has give me a new lease on life. I never thought I was going to find a way to get past the fatigue. That feeling is a killer. Everyone needs to try some kind of protein to add to their diet.

I was always in to diet and fitness ever since I was very young I knew to eat a high protein breakfast and you would not eat as much and consume as many calories through out the day. I was unaware that as women we need up to 80 grams to really boost your energy. I feel great!

Late night post

I have done so much today. Living like I may not see tomorrow. I really feel good tonight. But still I fear waking up to the next morning to have to suffer for everything I have done today. I was actually able to clean house and enjoyed the therputic feeling of knowing I was doing it and my home was really clean. Not just the clean when it looks clean really really clean.

Then I went for a walk to the creek with my dad and pepper. My poor pepper had to be carried back part of the way bacause the hill was just too hard for him. But he is 13 now. He had such a good time smelling the grass and the traills not letting us get 2 steps away from him.

I grilled out with my dad and came in and now watching pepper sleeping. It's been a really good day. But will I have a rebound readache tomorrow? That's the way the good days use to work. I get one good day and pay with 2 bad. I will see in the morning. Hoping for no hydro headache.

101 reason I don't drink coffee: Kopi Luwak

Kopi Luwak is a very rare type of coffee that is suppose to be the best of the best but it is not made from a coffee bean or it comes from a special cat poo. A cat called the civet.

Kopi Luwak are robusta or arabica coffee beans which have been eaten by and passed through the digestive tract of the Indonesian Civet (family of Viverridae). Kopi Luwak process takes place on the islands of Sumatra, Java and Sulawesi in the Indonesian Archipelago.

"Kopi" is the Indonesian word for coffee and "Luwak" is local name of this animal which eats the raw red coffee 'cherries' as part of its usual diet. This animal eats a mixed diet of insects, small mammals and fruits along with the softer outer part of the coffee cherry but does not digest the inner beans, instead excreting them still covered in some inner layers of the cherry.



Locals then gather the beans -- which come through the 'animal stage' fairly intact -- and sell them on to dealers. It is believed that enzymes in the stomach of the civet add to the coffee's flavour through fermentation of some type.

Kopi Luwak in coffee shops will cost $80 for a 4 ounce cup or $450 for a pound.

Let's talk about saving

I love to coupon shop. It's in my blood. I have been doing it with my momma since I was a little girl. I have thought about starting a coupon blog but the time and work it takes being disabled I don't have the energy. But I still follow my favorites and love watching them save but I object to them at times.

For years I have bought laundry detergent at Sams because it was much cheaper. $12 to $18 for 172 fl ounces and $7 for there is. But I had forgot about how much it was in the store. I often when I have extra time I will frequent e-bay for coupons I use. This is a great place to get coupons for people like me that can stock up when things go on sale. Never pay full price for anything please.

I saw these coupons for $2 and $3 off laundry detergent any size. So on the way home from swimming I dropped by my grocery store the smallest size of detergent was $6.78. Then with the $3.00 coupon I would still be paying more than Sam's and having to deal with 20 bottles of detergent on top of that.

I've been debating on if I want to explain couponing but I think I will let everyone go and check out one of my favorite sites and you can find couponing 101 and all you need to know plus up to date on all the latest sales http://www.southernsavers.com/

Pay it forward

Sometimes pay it forward comes in something at simple as a compliment. We can all boost someones day by saying something to help there feeling or their self confidence.

After water aerobics my trainer took me to the side and commented she could tell I had lost a lot of weight. I smiled but told her I had not lost anything and told her about my protein shakes. Donna is a big fan she has one every morning for breakfast.

I told donna how much better my energy was and I was able to have a much better workout. She was sure I was toning up and building muscle.

I was hoping I was building muscle a few days ago I was really discouraged because the scales were not changing but I am still thankful for my energy. I wasn't going to give up on the protein but this tells me I am on the right track. I is amazing how someone giving you a compliment when they have no idea you have made this big change for the better.

I was in the locker room later getting ready waiting for my mom in the shower I was talking to Rachel an all around trainer. I have watched her with clients for a while. I told her that I noticed she has a personal relationship with people where at many other gyms I have been they never did.

When I needed a trainer they acted like I was a problem. I commended her on how she made everyone feel good. She is cute and fun and people want to work with her. Rachel makes each person she works with feel special too.

She's invited me to come back into the gym and she would help me get started again. I'm still working out sore spots from my new found energy with water aerobics.

Now if my protein shakes would help my head rushes.

No more back seat driving for me

Yesterday I thought to be nice I would ride in the back seat of my mom's blazer because my dads back was hurting. I kept feeling like my mom was hanging in every curve on 2 wheels and in a big hurry. Then it wasn't long the pain and nausea started.

I finally had to say something. I ask to take it a bit slower in the curves. When she told me she wasn't driving ant different than usual. I might as well been on a roller coaster. We pulled over and switched places. It took me a few hours to settle down from me headache and nausea.

How do I drink the protein shakes?

Ever since I started telling my other friends about drinking the protein shakes and how they were helping my fatigue I have been ask how I drink mine.

When I first purchased a can of whey protein I was at a meeting with my friend that is planning to have lap band surgery. Well actually this doctor does not use the lap band he uses a new whipple that is suppose to be better than the lap band. But is does the same thing just designed a bit better.

I am drinking 2 shakes a day and eating one meal. I really try to make sure it is fairly healthy but the amazing thing. I'm not hungry going by pizza places and fast food thinking I want that. Its real easy to eat right. But if I get to wanting pizza like I did the other night. I fixed a piece of Pizza Hut pizza I had froze in my freezer. I could hardly eat the whole piece.

I have noticed I can't eat as much and I get full much faster. So I must be shrinking my stomach down.

The first can I got at the store said to use 2 scoops (I don't use this brand now) I added 2 heaping spoon fulls of frozen berries. I even freeze bananas then add one 8 ounce cup of milk. I use 2%. I have thought about going to 1% but haven't. My mom hates milk so she uses one cup water. It makes a big difference. I can't stand her shakes.

I no longer use the type I got at the clinic. I found 100% Whey protein EAS at Sams a much better price and its a 5 pound bag. I get it in vanilla so I can make it into any flavor.

My very favorite is my chocolate shake. I use 2 scoops of protein (I recently read the directions and EAS protein only requires you to use one scoop, but I'm still using 2 since its working so good) one heaping spoon full of Chocolate flavor Nesquik ( 13 grams of sugar) and one cup of milk and I mix in my blender.

Another shake that is amazing I have international coffees cappuccino coolers, iced cappuccino drink mix in french vanilla. I fix it the same as the chocolate I just add the cappuccino cooler instead.

I like using frozen fruit better than fresh the shakes just blend better and are colder. I'm wanting to try and mix some yogurt and maybe less milk to see how that works. Ill let you know when I get brave and try.

Suddenly its missing

I have had this issue with my appearance ever since the 5th grade. I remember having clearaceal on my face a a friend making a comment. "Monica, you really don't need to be wearing makeup with acne." I would explain it was to clear up the break outs.

I had this one pimple that was really bad. One of those you can feel all the way through to the other side of your cheek. I was so stressed cause it looked like my nose had just shifted to the left.

But after not having to get a back hoe to get rid of it. I noticed it went away but something else. The rest of my smaller pimples that kept me looking like I was 18 were suddenly gone.

I have used Retina-A for years to keep my acne from scaring. But its like a switch has been turned off. I'm waiting for a break out anytime.

Just Say No! to head bands with hydro

I had some major bed head the other morning when I got up plus I got up late. I just didn't have the energy or time to wash and fix my hair before swimming.

I grab a loose head band and just push my hair back grab my stuff and out the door. I noticed I had a bit of a headache and it felt like my head was getting tighter and tighter. It was just like I had a rubber band on my head.

How could something so tiny be causing so much pain? So I'm starting a campaign "Say No to Head Bands with Hydro!"

Watching "I use to be fat"

I have become a fan of this show but I recently have caught little sighs that the peeps on the show maybe loosing too fast and I wonder if they will be able to keep their weight off. Watching one show this morning a trainer told a young girl she would be working out 4 hours a day. I had Tivo'd another show and the teen was restricted to a 1400 calorie diet.

I know for sure this will jerk the weight off of you. But this can't be done for a life time. The show is not showing how to maintain the smaller size they have lost down to. You can get use to a low calorie diet for a short time but I have seen too many people gain back after loosing too fast.
I don't know how after the show these people find 4 hours a day to keep up the workouts too. Also I have found if you don't have the pizza or the cheese burger every now and then you will get stressed and eat fatty foods everyday for weeks.

I love the concept of this show but they need to plan after the show when the trainer is gone and you are back in the real world.

Watching " I use to be Fat"

Boozle bear with hydro

I saw some friends on facebook talking about boozle bear with hydro and had to share about him.


Boozle the Hydro BearBoozle bear, a teddy bear with a shunt, was developed by Dory Kranz and Sarah Zadorozynj of the Hydrocephalus Association. Boozle serves as a teaching tool for doctors, nurses, parents and children. Anyone can easily perform “surgery” on Boozle with an actual shunt inserted from the head to the abdomen. Although Boozle was just recently introduced, the Association has already received amazing reviews from medical professionals,parents and children.

To order Boozle, call (888) 598-3789 or send an email.


Awareness PinsThe Hydrocephalus Association’s “Awareness Pins”, made from shunt tubing, come attached to a card that outlines a few key statistics about hydrocephalus. You can raise awareness by giving these pins to family, friends, even your government representatives. A set of 10 pins, with informative cards, can be purchased for $30. We make each pin by hand, so please be patient if it takes us a little time to fill your order.

To order pins, call (888) 598-3789 or send an email.

Protein is helping my fatigue

Its been nearly 3 weeks now since I started the protein shakes. My energy has increased 100 percent. I am still coming home from swimming and doctor appointments and crashing. But when I'm in my exercise classes I am able to put so much more into them. I was sore for a good week after starting the drinks and vamping up my workout.

I can't believe I'm not eating as much. I'm working out harder but I'm not loosing weight. I wonder though. Could I be building muscle? I know for sure I have been so fatigued for so many years I have had to loose muscle.

To help my sore muscles I have been doing stretches of the mornings. I may grab some weights from the closet and add those too. Muscle burns fat.

I am at a loss if I'm loosing the fat. I do know I am so thankful to have some energy to be able to get out of bed.

Thank you 100% Whey protein

Average life of a shunt

I have recently heard the average life of a shunt is 10 years. But my first one worked for 20 years and was still working when surgeons took it out (that part of my story to come very soon).

I have several friends that have had working shunts for 25 plus years. It is very easy to live a fairly normal life with hydrocephalus. Complications have just changed things for me.

What is a shunt?

What Is a Hydrocephalus Shunt?

A hydrocephalus shunt is a flexible but sturdy Silastic® (a type of silicone rubber) tube. A hydrocephalus shunt system consists of the shunt, a catheter, and a valve. One end of the catheter is placed in the CNS -- usually within a ventricle inside the brain, but also sometimes within a cyst or in a site close to the spinal cord. The other end of the catheter is often placed within the abdomen, but may also be placed at other sites within the body, such as a chamber of the heart or a cavity in the lung, where the CSF can drain and be absorbed. A valve located along the catheter maintains one-way flow and regulates the CSF flow rate.

Possible Complications of Shunts for Hydrocephalus

Hydrocephalus shunts are not perfect devices. Possible complications of shunts in treatment of hydrocephalus may include, but are not limited to:

•Mechanical failure
•Infections
•Obstructions
•The need to lengthen or replace the catheter.

Generally, hydrocephalus shunt systems require monitoring and regular medical follow-up. When complications do occur, usually the shunt system will require some type of revision.

Some complications can lead to other problems, such as overdraining or underdraining. Overdraining occurs when the shunt allows CSF to drain from the ventricles more quickly than it is produced. This overdraining can cause the ventricles to collapse, tearing blood vessels and causing headache, hemorrhage (subdural hematoma), or slit-like ventricles (slit ventricle syndrome). Underdraining occurs when CSF is not removed quickly enough and the symptoms of hydrocephalus recur.

In addition to the common hydrocephalus symptoms, infections from a shunt may also produce symptoms such as a low-grade fever, soreness of the neck or shoulder muscles, and redness or tenderness along the shunt tract. When there is reason to suspect that a shunt system is not functioning properly (for example, if the symptoms of hydrocephalus return), medical attention should be sought immediately.

http://nervous-system.emedtv.com/hydrocephalus/shunts-in-treatment-of-hydrocephalus.html

A flood of memories

Last night I met up with my BFF from high school and I've been having all these memories coming back to me today. Details from school (elementary school) because she was there.

In the second grade was when got sick and I was unable to return to school that year. I was at the head of my class at that time. The teachers and principle let me do my work from home. I had already finished my math book and my science book. So that made things a bit better

In the third grade over the summer I had to learn to walk again came back to school with my eyes messed up (crossed) They were really bad. I can remember some kids being real motherly and taking care of me. Then there were the ones that acted like they could catch my cross eye disease. Kids don't understand if there parents don't tell them.

Major reason why when I first started going around my other best friend Chell's kids I would take my cane. It was so cool for a 4 year old to ask what's that? Why do you need it? Then when I tell her so I wouldn't fall she would take my hand in hers and help me. I will never forget that day at Chucky Cheese for Chell's 35th birthday.

I tried going back to school in the third grade full time but it was just too much for me. I was breaking down at school everyday. So my mom took me to my doctor. Apparently the radiation and surgery.... Had damaged my nervous system and I was just having trouble adjusting to school

Once again the doctor and principle made an agreement I would go half days. It was also thought fatigue was a big issue with me trying to go to school.

Now that I'm remembering I also had a lot of headaches and nausea then. My mom told the doctors and she was told it was part of the healing or was given some other excuse. It was the pressure from the hydro the whole time.

Who sleeps with their TV on?

I tapes reruns of M*A*S*H and play when in ready for bedtime. The reason is the constant ringing in my ears. I had to watch M*A*S*H as a child because we only had 3 channels. I have seen every show so I'm not constantly opening my eyes to see what just happened.

The ringing keeps me from being able to fall asleep. All I can focus on is the constant high pitched buzz I hear. The sound turned down low helps to distract me from that crazy noise.

D my best friend from high school suggested I answer the ringing and see who is trying to contact me. So now I'm scared to say "Hello"

Just like old times

I met up with my best friend from high school for a late lunch but we ended up gabbing half the night. Catching up on what had happened over the years we have missed out with each others lives over the years.

It was like maybe a week had past but she had grown up but still the same. She is a nurse and could understand what I have been going through but really had no idea about a lot of it.

We have both grown up and changed but it was just like old times. I forgot all the fun things we use to do. In high school we had other friends but we usually did everything together. What ever trouble she got in I got into also.

I'm wide awake with a warm feeling. A good feeling a feeling. I'm so thankful to have her living back home. Tonight it feels like things are good in the world.

Pain medicine and tooth decay

I recently talked to some friends and forgot one of my issues with my illness. Having to take pain medicine on a regular basis causes dry mouth which leads to dry mouth. This is something that doctors don't tell you. After many cavities my dentist told me what the problem was.

I had to start flossing a brushing more but more important drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. Another thing that my dentist recommended was a dry mouth tooth paste,mouth wash and even a gum.

Today I'm meeting my best friend from high school for our personal reunion for the first time since 1993. I'm excited to see her again because we had great memories from school together.

We have both changed over the years. She was married soon after high school and had 2 kids. Everyone on my blog knows my store but mostly she has just heard through the grapevine.

I know she is wondering how the additional surgeries have effected me. She is a nurse and understands the reality of complications.

I am worried my coordination and balance might have a bad day. But I also remember her helping me joke off falling up stairs and tripping for no reason.

She knew I had a brain tumor in elementary school but we never talked about it back then. I just always thought I was a klutz. A really bad klutz! But we both got some good laughs because of it.

By the way we are having lunch with some TGI Friday coupons I got off of e-bay

I'd rather it be me than someone else

I truly mean this. Its so much easier to go through surgery and the pain myself than see someone I care about.

Its been really hard hearing my best friend going through recovery from her hysterectomy. Its usually me going through the pain and fatigue. Its strange hearing her dread walking to the bathroom. A bath gives her out and just little things takes her energy. I can so relate.

I've struggled with my fatigue for 9 years now and its really hard watching her need sleep to recover like I usually do. But I know soon she will start to feel better soon.

Hydrocephalus Signs and Symptoms

An Overview of Hydrocephalus Signs and Symptoms

Hydrocephalus symptoms vary with age, disease progression, and a person's tolerance to cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). For example, an infant's ability to tolerate CSF pressure differs from an adult's. The infant skull can expand to accommodate the buildup of CSF because the sutures (the fibrous joints that connect the bones of the skull) have not yet closed.

Symptoms of Hydrocephalus in Infants

In infancy, the most obvious symptom is often the rapid increase in head circumference or an unusually large head size.


Other hydrocephalus symptoms in infants may include:

•Vomiting
•Sleepiness
•Irritability
•Downward shift of the eyes (also called "sunsetting")
•Seizures.

Hydrocephalus Symptoms in Older Children and Adults
Older children and adults may experience different symptoms of hydrocephalus because their skulls cannot expand to deal with the buildup of CSF. In these people, symptoms may include:

•Headache followed by vomiting
•Nausea
•Papilledema (swelling of the optic disk, which is part of the optic nerve)
•Blurred vision
•Diplopia (double vision)
•Sunsetting of the eyes
•Problems with balance
•Poor coordination
•Gait disturbance
•Urinary incontinence
•Slowing down or loss of development
•Lethargy
•Drowsiness
•Irritability

•Other changes in personality or cognition, including memory loss.
http://nervous-system.emedtv.com/hydrocephalus/hydrocephalus-symptoms.html

I was a bum today

Although my energy is doing better and my headache was not too bad I laid around the house and did laundry. I feel guilty because I have been feeling better the past few days. I feel like it's not going to last just like every other time I started feeling better. I'm waiting for someone to jerk the rug out from under my feet. Just waiting...

A man observed a woman in the grocery store with a three year old girl in her basket. As they passed the cookie section, the child asked for cookies and her mother told her “no.” The little girl immediately began to whine and fuss, and the mother said quietly, “Now Ellen, we just have half of the aisles left to go through; don’t be upset. It won’t be long.”

He passed the Mother again in the candy aisle. Of course, the little girl began to shout for candy. When she was told she couldn't have any, she began to cry. The mother said, “There, there, Ellen, don’t cry. Only two more aisles to go, and then we’ll be checking out.”

The man again happened to be behind the pair at the check-out, where the little girl immediately began to clamor for gum and burst into a terrible tantrum upon discovering there would be no gum purchased today. The mother patiently said, “Ellen, we’ll be through this check out stand in five minutes, and then you can go home and have a nice nap.”

The man followed them out to the parking lot and stopped the woman to compliment her. “I couldn’t help noticing how patient you were with little Ellen…”

The mother broke in, “My little girl’s name is Tammy… I’m Ellen.”

The big suprise....

Some of you may already have noticed by looking at some of my links von my blog But I have a big secret...I hate paying full price for anything. espacally since I am on a limited income now I have to watch my money closer. I look for tips and tricks and COUPONS! I may start sharing some of my tricks and help others to save and would love some ideas in return.

Get to know me without hydro

I thought I would show you that I live a life outside of my hydrocephalus. I worked until I started having complications in 2002 from my hydro at Lowes as a Credit rep and customer service.

I bought a home when I was 20 and was able to pay it off with my 401-K when I got sick and unable to work.

I have pepper, my nearly 13 year old poodle and a black tabby cat Ginger, she 5 years old. Ginger is a inside only kitty and pepper enjoys staying by my side indoors or out. When I'm gone he will stay with my mom or dad. If he has to stay by himself he doesn't do real good. I have to give him a nerve pill. Ever since I've been sick he has become more clingy and will cry when I leave him to the point of making himself sick. I thought Ginger would calm his nerves but he still looses it when I leave.

I love to garden. I have hundreds of different colors of Iris' I order every year. I try to add new colors every year but haven't been able to the last couple of years because of not being able to set them out or not knowing it I would be in the hospital when they came.

I've been swimming since I was 8 years old when I took swimming lessons. Growing up I had an above ground 3 foot pool in my parents back yard. I loved summertime and swimming.

Did you know? I have always been a workout freak! It started in middle school. I was a size 9 and felt chubby. I didn't understand calories in calories out. But I knew how to dance and I did all the time. I stayed skinny until I started having fatigue issues. I'm hoping that will pass soon.

I love horses and grew up around horses. I hope to one day have them again. I now ride 4 wheelers and side by sides. Pepper loves to ride and gets really upset if he doesn't get to ride.

If your wondering. Yes... I'm single....Yes I date. I've been engaged but believe you marry one time and one time only. I have a really happy life.

I don't have kids and never wanted kids. I really love kids but I saw really scary things growing up and I feared not being able to protect a child from the things I had to face. Another thing. Its thought that my brain tumor was caused because my dad was exposed to mustard gas in the military. He had a faulty gas mask.

I'm just a country girl

I carry my cell phone in my bra strap and a pocket knife in my purse.

When I was able to exercise regular and workout I knew it was very important to do different exercises to work different muscles. Since I have had this new found energy I have been doing water aerobics with different trainers and I have been very sore from just a few days after I started drinking the protein shakes.

I keep wondering when some of the soreness is going to let up in my body. I keep working out to get the kinks out and hoping each day will be less sore than the next.

The good thing about protein is it helps to replenish the muscles and work out the soreness. I just wonder how bad I would be hurting if I didn't have the protein shakes to help.

Walking like a Zombie

I'm sore. I'm whining. I'm tired I feel like every bone in my body weighs 50 pounds.

The protein shakes are really helping my energy but today has been a long day. I had to take nausea medicine last night and it has give me a terrible hang over today. I have literally been like a zombie. I've been having to push myself all day to do just anything. But all I really wanted to do is sleep.

I'm really excited

I have been seeing a big change in Pepper knows best and I have been loving all the messages and comments. Please keep the responses coming.

I feel like that I have taken pepper knows best in the right direction. I still have more ideas that I have been ask about and I am still thinking on.

Thank you for helping to making others aware about my condition and the condition of 1 out of every 500 babies born.

Scott McCreery apologizes

So I thought I would change the channel when Paris Tassin got the boot but I had to see what happen to young Scotty.

I was really disappointed to think of him as a good ol' country boy didn't do the right thing and stand up for another member that was cut from their group.

But he apologized on stage and broke down after the audition. I think he was truly was sorry for not being there for his friend.

How long does protein stay in your system?

The nutritionist in the classes I have been going to support my friend has explained protein doesn't stay in your system very long. I was very surprised doing some research online.

Whey protein only stays in your system about 2 and a half hours. I'm really surprised because I can go for hours without being hungry and my energy is still doing really great.

We all have a disability

Today during free swim a couple of young ladies came in with teen age boys that were autistic to work with them in the water. After class I spoke to open lady telling her I admire the work they were doing.

She thanked me and said she worried that the boys bothered people because of there gestures and sometimes being loud. I told her we all have handicaps and told her about my hydrocephalus.

Can you hear me!

Ever since I had my first surgery from complications in 2002 I have had a very loud ringing in my ears. I have tried medication and hoped it would get better after each surgery but I still have the very loud ring in my ears.

It took me a very long time to get use to it. But I constantly hear it. Its really loud the past couple of days.

Anti-Siphon was put to the test yesterday

Thanks to the protein shakes I have had more energy. The past few days the weather has been beautiful. I finally got a day free to spend home. I enjoyed my day doing things I've not been able to do in 2 maybe 3 years because of headaches and extreme fatigue. My muscles are really feeling it this morning but I woke up happy being able to enjoy the outdoors like I once did.

Yesterday I did thinks at a slower pace but things that had been a long time for me to get to enjoy. I love to garden and work with my iris garden. I've had one garden the rocks to keep the dirt in had under minded and needed reset for at least 2 years. It has looked terrible. But I haven't dare try to work on it because my energy would not let me far out of the house pluse I feared bending over to unbalanced my shunt for too long.

It seemed every time I had to do something bent over for a while I would pay for it with a major headache. The worst was when I had a dental visit over 2 days and ended up having completely collapsed vents. I had surgery to place an anti-syphon device because my shunt was draining too much fluid off.

When I had the revision for the anti-syphon device it helped my headaches a lot but not the fatigue.

When I woke up this morning I had the usual headache but not the fetal position headache I would have had before.

I am so happy to think I am going to get this part of my life back this summer. I have missed my gardening so much. I've been working in my parent's yard and my yard since I was 12 or 13 building up raised rock gardens.

I'm excited to get together an iris order this fall I haven't had any new iris' in many years because of not having the energy to set them out.

Protien diet and diebetic

My mom is doing the protein diet with me but she is diabetic and been having sugar lows after about 4 hours on without eating. I can go much longer without feeling hungery. So I did some research and found this on livingstrong.com

High Protein Diet & Extreme Fatigue

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Overview

High-protein diets are a popular method of weight loss. You increase your intake of protein and fat while reducing your carbohydrate consumption to encourage a metabolic change within the body that causes a greater loss of weight. But this metabolic change, coupled with the carbohydrate restriction, can sometimes lead to undesirable side effects, including fatigue.

High-Protein Diets
Diets high in protein tend to limit your intake of carbohydrates. Even nutrient-rich foods like fruits, vegetables and whole grains are restricted to a fraction of their recommended daily intake. This lack of carbs causes ketosis, a metabolic change that forces the body to turn to stored fat for energy, the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases explains. As the body breaks down fat, you lose weight.

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Fatigue

This weight loss, however, can come at a cost. Carbohydrates are the body's main source of energy. Eating too few fruits, vegetables and whole grains can leave you feeling weak and tired, warns the NIDDK. Compounding the problem is ketosis, which is also known to result in fatigue as well as a loss of potassium. And according to the Mayo Clinic, if potassium levels drop below 3.5 milliequivalents per liter, you can begin to suffer from weakness and fatigue. All of these factors can contribute to feelings of extreme fatigue.


Carbohydrates
Most people eat roughly 300 or more grams of carbohydrates a day. High-protein diets limit your daily intake of carbs to anywhere between 15 and 60 g. As soon as you drop your carbohydrate consumption below 130 g, your body goes into ketosis, explains the NIDDK. It's at this time that you may begin to manifest symptoms of the metabolic change, including weakness and fatigue.

Considerations
Increasing your intake of complex carbohydrates, like fruits, vegetables and whole grains, can often combat these feelings of weakness and fatigue. Many medical professionals endorse diets containing up to 15 percent protein, 60 percent carbohydrates and 25 to 35 percent fat to promote a healthy weight loss, according to Vanderbilt University.

Recommendation
Before starting any weight-loss program, talk to your doctor. Though diets high in protein are often considered safe, especially in the short-term, your health may require other dietary modifications to promote a healthy loss in weight.

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Sponsored LinksReferences
Mayo Clinic: High-Protein Diets --- Are They Safe?

National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases: Weight-Loss and Nutrition Myths

Vanderbilt University: The Atkins Diet --- Too Good to Be True?


Read more: http://www.livestrong.com/article/301872-high-protein-diet-extreme-fatigue/#ixzz1E2u2QidI

What Is Ketosis?

Ketosis is a condition in which levels of ketones (ketone bodies) in the blood are elevated. Ketones are formed when glycogen stores in the liver have run out. The ketones are used for energy. Ketones are small carbon fragments that are the fuel created by the breakdown of fat stores. Ketosis is potentially a serious condition if keytone levels go too high.

However, when the body is in ketosis the individual tends to feel less hungry, and will probably eat less than he/she might otherwise do. The body switches from being a carbohydrate-burning organism into a fat-burning one. The fat stores become a primary energy source, and the person loses weight. That is why low-carb diets have become popular, and effective, especially among obese people.

The modern human body in most societies usually metabolizes glucose from carbohydrates for energy purposes, rather than energy from fat. If there is not enough glucose (from carbohydrates) in the bloodstream the body draws on fat stores for fuel, causing the appearance of ketones in the blood. Ketones are produced by the liver from fatty acids.

We need proteins and fats for building and repairing tissue and cells - proteins and fats can also be sources of energy. If necessary, the body can get all its energy from fats and proteins.

Our brain can use glucose or ketones for energy; it cannot generally burn fat for energy.

When there are plenty of carbohydrates in the body, it breaks them down into glucose, which is then converted into energy and transported into the cells of our body.

If glucose cannot be broken down, as may be the case if the insulin levels are too low, or if there is a lack of glucose, then the body has to break down stored fat and convert it into energy. Metabolizing fat raises blood ketone levels, leading to ketosis. Ketosis can occur with Type 1 diabetes (not enough insulin), alcoholism, starvation, and with a low-carb, high fat/protein diet.

Ketones consist of acetone, acetoacetate or beta-hydroxybutyrate. Very high ketone levels can be toxic, making the blood more acid, and may damage such organs as the kidneys and liver.

The human body tries to lower acetone (a ketone) levels by breathing it out, causing a sweet and fruity breath. We also reduce keytone levels by expelling them through our urine.

I had an amazing memory last night

In the past few years since I have had complications with my hydrocephalus and fatigue it the first time I have ever had a weight problem. I have always been a workout addict and watched things I eat.

If I eat something that was not as healthy or I went over my calorie intake I would exercise that much more to work off the extra calories. I never just sat and watched TV because I could at least be working my arms or doing leg presses off the edge of my bed.

I did not understand as much about exercise and calories in calories out as I do now. Plus my latest discovery of protein. But I also loved to stretch. It always made my body feel so awake.

I just think of all the things I've learned over the years. It kills me that what little I knew then I was able to stay healthy. I would love some help and advice to get back to myself.

Energy boost from protein

I think I have been on the protein shakes for over a week now. I am able to do so bmuch more drinking the shakes. It took me 2 days to get the protein back in my system after not drinking it that one day.

I have not made time to get on the treadmill I've just been too busy doing other things. But I am able to have a better workout in my water aerobics. I can tell I have put more into the class because I have been sore after each class. So I am hoping I am building muscle and getting more benefit from my classes. Instead of just going through the motions.

WNC Brain Tumor Support Group

This is a wonderful group that meets once a month in Asheville.

Pain Scale by Lon Diffendfer

HYDROCEPHALUS SYMPTOM PAIN LEVEL SCALE

This was written up by Lon Diffenderfer a shunteer.

I just use a scale of 1-9 with 9 being the worst
pain. His goes something like this: I pretty much match it.
You may or may not have all these symptoms but I find this is a pretty good indicator about how bad the headache is & the symptoms hydro parents can watch out for.

0 - Pain free
1 - Barely noticeable pain; no other symptoms
2 - Noticeable pain around mask of face but bearable without medication; light ringing
the ears
3 - Noticeable pain around mask of face; ringing in the ears; taking pain medication with
good results
4 - Pain traveling from mask of face further back to around the ears and over the top of
the head; loud ringing in the ears; thought processes and memory being effected; taking
pain medication with good results
5 - Pain present over more than half the head; loud ringing in the ears; heightened
sensitivity to light and sound; unable to think clearly; memory noticeably effected;
usually retreat to dark quiet room; balance becoming effected; possible fever; taking
pain medication with moderate relief
6 - Strong pain present over most of head; can hear pulse in ears and see it with eyes
shut; very loud ringing in the ears; extremely irritable; poor balance; wanting no social
contact - only silence and a dark room; speech effected; poor thought processes and poor
memory; balance noticeably effected; possible fever; little relief from pain medication;
nausea; called neurologist
7 - Strong pain (usually throbbing) present over most of head; can hear pulse in ears and
see it with eyes shut; trouble focusing vision; almost unbearable ringing in the ears; no
social contact; extremely irritable; speech errors common; very poor thought processes
and very poor memory; very poor balance; fever present; no relief from pain medications;
nausea - possible vomiting; possible incontinence; neurologist contacted and recommends
admittance to the hospital
8 - Unbearable pain (usually throbbing) present over most or all of head; hear pulse and
see pulse even with eyes open; blurred and double vision; unbearable ringing in the ears;
extremely irritable; frequent errors in speech; very poor balance; fever present; no
relief from pain medications if they can be tolerated; nausea and vomiting; incontinent;
neurologist contacted and usually at hospital by this point
9 - Unbearable pain throughout head; hear and see pulse with eyes open; blurred and
double vision; unbearable ringing in the ears; no longer as irritable because of lack of
awareness of surroundings; vocalizations are mostly moaning in pain - very little speech;
very poor balance; fever; unable to tolerate oral pain medications; nausea and vomiting;
incontinent; hospitalized
-Hydropioneer's Hydro Haven

Gabby's progress

Her speach therapy is really progressing although she is not talking like she once did. Just recently she was able to speak to her brother in law in space and is able to talk briefly on the phone.

She can mouth the words to "Twinkle Twinkle little star" and she is practicing "Happy Birth Day" for her husband, Mark Kelly later this month.

Why was the family medical leave act established?

The Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) was created in 1993 to make sure employers give employees the opportunity to care for themselves or a family member in circumstances vital to the family without fear of losing their jobs.



Read more: Why Was the FMLA Established? | eHow.com http://www.ehow.com/facts_6899661_fmla-established_.html#ixzz1Dt2chPQ1

What is family medical leave?

What is the law? What is its purpose?
The Family Medical Leave Act was signed into law in 1993 to balance needs of employers and employees in circumstances when employees must take extended medical leaves for serious medical conditions, including pregnancy, or to care for family members. The purpose of the law is to protect employee jobs in these circumstances. It does not necessarily pay the employee during this time, if the employee does not otherwise have paid time off (sick days, vacation, personal days).

Who is covered under this law?
A "covered employer" is an employer: "who employs 50 or more employees for each working day during each of 20 or more calendar workweeks in the current or preceding calendar year."

Eligible employees are those who


•Have worked for their covered employer at least a year (not necessarily consecutive), and

•Have worked at least 1,250 hours during the 12-month period immediately before the leave, and who

•Work at a location where at least 50 employees are employed at the location or within 75 miles of the location.

My story rewritten (part 4)

While my surgeon was gone to research my tumor and what treatment I would need to kill the remaining tumor that was left around my brain stem I had excessive swelling that required me to have to have a shunt placed to remove some of the swelling. The swelling had caused my left eye to turn into my nose where you could barely see it and my right eye had turned up. I had lost bladder control and the ability to walk. I was so weak on my left side I was considered partially paralyzed. I wasn't responsive much of the time and was getting worse by the minute.

The shunt was placed by another surgeon. When I came out of surgery and came out of the anesthesia I was wide awake. My parents are still surprised how alert I was after this surgery. It was a big relief.

It was found that my tumor was an aystrocytomia and would most likely not grow back. They said I had it for at least 5 years if not born with it. I would need radiation to kill the remaining tumor. I was going to need physical therapy to basically learn how to walk again. My muscles were also doing crazy things in the few days I had been sick.

With the shunt surgery I regained my bladder control. When my parents ask about my eyes the neurosurgon said they probably would go back on there own.

I spent a month in the hospital with my mom never leaving my side. She slept in a recliner in my room. My aunt Karen came nearly ever day to spend time with me and help my mom.

Physical therapy was very painful because I couldn't straighten my legs and the muscles had atrophied. There was no change in my eyes in this month but I don't remember stressing over my eyes. I do remember being bothered with seeing double and nurses would patch my left eye.

After a month I was released. I had to return to the hospital 3 times a week for physical therapy and 5 days a week for radiation. My dad was a truck driver (he had a hay business) and my mom worked full time. This was before there was FMLA(family medical leave) how would they do it?

Hydrocephalus: Did you know?

updated September 12, 2009

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Hydrocephalus Filed under: Brain & Nervous System

Hydrocephalus occurs when excess fluid builds up in your brain, most often because of an obstruction preventing proper fluid drainage. The excess fluid can compress surrounding, fragile brain tissue, causing brain damage. Left untreated, hydrocephalus can be fatal.

Once known as "water on the brain," hydrocephalus is sometimes present at birth, although it may develop later. About 1 out of 500 children is born with the disorder. The outlook if you have hydrocephalus depends on how quickly the condition is diagnosed and whether any underlying disorders are present.

©1998-2011 Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research (MFMER). Terms of use.
Read this article on Mayoclinic.com.

I was really excited to get to spread hydro awareness

As everyone knows that follows my blog part of my day to day activity 3 times a week (well I try to make it many weeks it 2 times or just once a week) But I have been doing water aerobics for several years now at the YWCA. Taking off many weeks and months at a time because of my hydro.

Yesterday in class we had some new ladies and because we are a really close group of friends we try to get to know new people. My mom introduced me and mentioned I had hydrocephalus. I then told that I blog to bring awareness to our condition. I was so excited when they both said I don't know about it...make me aware.

Paris made it through hell week!

If you havn't kept up with Paris' story. Here daughter has hydrocephalus and from the hysrocephalus it caused the complication of hearing loss. Paris had her daughter when she was 18 years old when the doctors saw the baby had hydro they advised her to abort her baby. She chose to have her baby and she is a beautiful little girl.

GO TEAM PARIS!!!

Hydrocephalus Awareness

Hydrocephalus Awareness - Hydrocephalus comes from Greek words: hydro means water, cephalus means head. Hydrocephalus is an abnormal accumulation of fluidâcerebrospinal fluid, or CSFâwithin cavities called ventricles inside the brain. This condition may occur at any age.

There currently is NO cure just treatment. There needs to be more... awareness and research!

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Did she really say that?

Pepper is now 13 and diabetic. So he has insulin and needles that he has to have a prescription for. I'm switching drug stores and the new drug store would not transfer his prescriptions. So my mom called the old drug store for a print out of his prescriptions.

We we by the drug store the little girl ask my mom if she was Pepper? My mom told her Pepper was a dog. She said .....Um....Do you have power of attorney? Then laughed. She came back with the papers and ask can you take your dog off on your taxes. My mom was real quick on her toes she said "Yes he's a breeder" We drove off laughing.

I'm a believer

This morning I got up as usual and got my tea but I didn't drink a protein shake. I fell back to sleep and woke up late. I have felt tired and sluggish all day.

I've been hungry and had food cravings. I'm drinking my shake right now. I won't make this mistake again tomorrow.

I'm able to sleep

For the past 2 or 3 nights I have slept all night. Ever since I can remember I would just lay in bed at night wide awake. When I was little in my room there was glitter on my ceiling and I used a lava lamp for a night light and it would reflect off the flecks on the ceiling.

So is the protein helping me sleep or being able to be more active and actually get tired from doing something and not the restless fatigue I usually feel.

American Idol season 10

17 year old Scott McCreery from Raleigh,NC really amazes me how he can have such an assume voice. I predict him and Paris one and two spots for idol.

American Idol in Hollywood

Paris Tassin made it through to the next round first thing! I knew she would. But I am thankful that she is still on the show she has an amazing voice.

GO TEAM PARIS!!!!

Did you know?

You don't store protein in your system. This may be why I have been so fatigued for so long. I am feeling better since I started the protein shakes. The only reasonable explanation is that I'm not getting enough protein.

But its not only helping me but my mom is doing it to. She started feeling good before I did. I wasn't a believer and became discouraged after a few days but kept at it. Slowly I am feeling better.

I'm not feeling like I could run 5 miles but I'm not having to lay in bed all day like I have to to regain my strength as much.

Thank you blogger fairy

How many bloggers can say thay have someone that can make a professional blog when you have not even hit 500 post yet. I have a secret. She is my best friend I also call her my blogger fairy.

When I first started blogging she would go behind me and fix things without saying a word. Now she doesn't do that so much but I was board with the look of my blog and she really jazzed it up.

Thank you Chell @ The Adventures of Supermom

My Story rewritten (part 3)

So it is March 1983 I'm having surgery to remove a brain tumor. That's all my parents knew. The CT had shown a mass in my cerribellium wrapped around my brain stem. Apparently when my doctor looked in my eyes the day before he saw pressure building up.

I remember being really scared that morning of the surgery and we were all crying. My mom was trying to pled with the doctor to let her go to. She was so upset she couldn't let me go. I remember him explaining that she couldn't go with me and she could handle what was going to happen in the operating room. My aunt Karen tryed to lighten the mood by being funny and asking the doctor to bring the tumor out to see. Weird thing she really did want to see it.

My Mom and Dad had alot of support that day. I don't remember who was all there that day but I heard stories later. I know My mamaw ,aunt Karen, another aunt, and close friends and neighbors Helen and Rankin were there. My uncle Lonnie wanted to be there but couldn't get a ride to the hospital. He sent me the first roses I ever got. I nearly remember what the card said. Here is 11 beautiful roses, You are the 12Th and most beautiful of all.


I was in surgery 6 hours that day. The only thing I remember about recover is wanting my underwear! I do remember my head hurting but I don't remember much more from recovery that day.

I had lost a lot of blood in surgery there was a discussion about a blood transfusion. I don't remember who it was but they ask to try not to give me blood. Aids had just hit the news in 1981 and it wasn't positive how it was spread. There was rumors of it being spread through blood transfusions and this was something they were hoping to avoid. So the choice was made to put me on iron and hope my blood would build back on its on.

The surgery was only partly successful. The doctors were not able to remove all of the tumor due to it being wrapped around the brain stem. So there would have to be radiation to kill the rest of the tumor.

My tumor was the first tumor of this type that had been seen at Mission hospital so it was sent off to be analyzed. My surgeon also had to research my tumor and went to Washington DC to research it to know what would need to be done post op.

For 9 days my surgeon and his wife were gone and I was left in the care of the hospital. But the days became very confusing to me. I wasn't seeing things right. I was seeing 2 of things. My doctor had left orders for me to start physical therapy but when she ask me to do something it was like I would drift off.

On the 9Th day after my brain tumor surgery my surgeons wife came in and saw me. She was a nurse herself. Suddenly things were being turned upside down and I was being rushed into surgery again.

Protein power

Day 5 of the protein diet to help my fatigue and hopefully get a few pounds off. I weighed this morning just wondering I know its only been 5 days but I've lost nearly a pound.

I was so excited to get on the treadmill yesterday. I even did some things through my house and some laundry.

I've noticed that the shakes help me with sweets and junk food cravings. I'm not even eating as much. I'm getting full faster. I may be on to something.

My story rewritten (part 2)

My mom and I sat in the waiting room of the hospital. I was just 8 years old but I can remember everything about the place. It was an open space with a front and side hallways that had double doors that had doctors and nurses rushing in and out. We were still scared and crying.

A lady came and called for me and started describing what was going to happen. They took me to a room with this hugh machine that was going to look inside my brain. She described it as a donut.

They failed to tell me or I didn't understand the part about half way through they would put in die. This was in 1983 and so much has been learned since then. They placed the needle in my arm ( I was crying beause of hating needles). To rush the die into my system the techs were squeezing the IV bag to make it get into my system fast. I was very sick after the CT they told that this was normal. They no longer do this they now let the die drain in slowly. I have not been sick since they changed from doing this.

My mom ask if she could go home to pack some clothes while we waited for the results of the CT. We were not allowed to leave the hospital. I admitted as soon as the test results came back and was set up for more test that day.

The next day I had surgery.

"Whey" to go!

Day 4 on my protien diet and I was super suprised to wake up and feel like I might could get on the treadmill a few minutes. I didn't do anything like 5 miles. But I got on the treadmill for a few minutes and I feel really good that the protein diet maybe helping my fatigue.

My story rewritten Part 1

I haven't update my story since I started blogging nearly 425 post ago. This morning I was talking over my medical history and thought it would be a good idea so others could better understand how I got hydrocephalus.

Here is my updated story:

I was 8 years old and had the flu. I had been going to the doctor for over 2 weeks because I couldn't get over the systems. When I went back to see my doctor the second week my Dr had a resident training come in and looked at me.

The resident looked in my eyes and ask my doctor to look. We were suddenly given orders to go straight to the hospital for a CT scan. My mom ask if she could take me to get something to eat first because I had not been able to eat that morning. But there was no time we had to go then! Straight to the hospital! My mom and I cried in fear all the way to the hospital.

Although it was just a few miles to the hospital it felt like the longest drive ever. In the past 2 weeks I had been to the doctor 3 times and now I'm having to go to the hospital. I had never even seen a hospital.

I had been having headaches and blackout spells with having the flu. The day before this trip to the hospital my mamaw had been keeping me I came in that morning and laid down and slept until my mom came home that evening. I had also been walking with an od gate. My parents compared it to a blind pony we had. He would step high and wide trying to find his way.

Day 3 on protein diet

One of the wonderful side effects of my hydrocephalus is fatigue. So I am often looking for different ways to help my fatigue. My new venture is protein diet. Mainly protein shakes.

I'm on my third day of drinking the shakes of the morning and eating a lite lunch and dinner. I keep wanting to feel better and feel like getting on the treadmill I just have not talked myself into it.

I keep getting discouraged wanting something to flip the feel better switch. I feel like everyday I go without making it to the treadmill the harder its going to be to get started.

You never really know

I feel so bad for what my best friend Michelle is going through with her hysterectomy surgery. I tried my best to prepare her for what she was going to face. She also reads my constant issues with fatigue.

The pain was hard on her but the fatigue and is bothering her the worst. I tried to tell her without scaring her. But she knows how hard I have it and is super understanding. Especially when I am planning to see her and have a girls night and have to cancel last minute.

Her mind is getting the best of her wanting to do things around the house wanting to clean and straighten up but she is having to rely on other which she has never done. She always did things herself.

So instead of fixing dinner and doing laundry, fixing lunches....She is sitting on the couch usually in the fetal position asking for help reminding her girls to be careful and not fall into Mommy playing.

I'm so glad this surgery is finally over for her. She has been anemic and stayed sick every cold and flu season because of a low immunity. I think it may take 6 months or more for her to build her immune system back but this surgery will help tons.

Chell I know its hard now but it will get better. I'm thinking about you. My new protein diet may help. It seems to be giving me a bit of energy.

Mark Kelly made his decision

He will severe his country and go on his 2 week trip into space. It was important he make this decision very soon because his training continues this week to enter into space. As an astronaut Mark Kelly knows this may be his last trip into space.

Something that made this decision difficult is Gabby is unable to speak at this time to talk to him and tell him her feelings about the mission. But Mark Kelly is assured that gabby would want him to go.

I had wondered how the gun shot had effected her or the pressure build up. We now know it has effected her speech.

Her husband was comforted in his decision to leave since she has plenty of friends and family helping with her and by her bedside during her recovery.

Trying something to help my Fatigue

I had an idea to try something different to help my fatigue. There is a plus to this too its a type of diet so we will see if it helps me to get my diet back on track.

I recently attended a weight loss clinic with a friend and they were talking about these protein shakes everyone would need to drink at a certain time in their diet. They told how protein gives you energy. I found it interesting enough to try it.

My only problem is I forget to eat when I drink the shake. I feel no hunger at all for hours. Today is the second day I have tried the drink. I will update you on how it goes.

I can't drink the shake as directed though. It says to mix with 1 cup of water. The tate is fine. But the powder cakes in my mouth like talcom. I used 1 cup of milk and about 8 or 10 frozen blackberries and blended it.

Crossing my fingers this helps my fatigue and what if I loose weight too!!!!

One month since Senator Gifford's shooting

Senator Gifford's husband Mark Kelly spoke yesterday about his wife telling that she is making slow progress everyday. At this time we do not know the extent of her injuries or the damage the pressure had on Senator Gifford.

She was very lucky that neurosurgeons did surger on her immediately and removed part of her skull in attempt to keep the swelling down. Swelling was apparently a challenge with the Senator the reason she had to have the manual siphon. But all their efforts it looks like she is not got to have to have a shunt.

She is probably still having to have physical therapy. Number one because of the injury to the brain. The brain may have been damaged in that area and she needs to teach here brain to work her body again.

Speech therapy could also be part of her daily task. Where the bullet hit it is a good possibility it effected her speech.

And the big question did it effect her eye sight and hearing? There are assist devices that can help but with the media reporting she is improving I'm think that her disabilities are more with walking and talking.

Her husband Mark Kelly is an astronaut and has an upcoming mission. It will be interesting to see if he goes on his mission or stays by his wife's bedside.

In a interview with Diane Sawyer he told how he would sit and read to her and hold her hand by her bedside while she was still on the respirator. He told about his excitement when she opened her eyes for the first time and truely showed his love for his wife.

I have been really scared Senator Gifford was going to become shunt dependent. But I am also is love with watch how Mark Kelly is standing beside his wife. My daddy has always been here for me but I have never been able to look at any man and think they would be here for me like he has for his wife.

I hide my how sick I have been the past 9 years from a man I really like. Because of an ex boyfriend that couldn't even take care of me when I had food poisoning. I ruined our weekend trip. He pouted and left me sick and went fishing. There is no way he could take care of me if I had a shunt malfunction. I commend Mark Kelly for being there.

Request from Paris Tassin on Facebook

I wanted to confirm this request before I posted it. Paris has requested pictures of her fans posted to her wall on facebook. You can go to her personal page and see her request.

I often go to her personal page and different fan pages looking for others with hydro. I enjoy reading there stories and meeting new hydro peeps.

It interest me how hydro effects us all differently. Like with myself it effected my balance and coordination. But with Paris' daughter it damaged her hearing. So she is hearing impaired.

I am so disappointed in myself

Its times like yesterday and last night that really make me feel less of the person I use to be. Less of the person I still try to be. Yesterday my best friend had a hysterectomy. She has 2 small children so her husband was unable to stay the night with her. He needed to be with his girls. But any good dad would be there for his kids.

Before I had these past 11 surgeries I would have been there to stay with Chell like I did with my aunt Karen. Even though I had 2 really long days going to SC for doctors appointments.

I felt horrible when she called needing me not long after I had got home and I had already fell asleep. I constantly fight fatigue! This is such a disappointment. I slept with my phone on my pillow in fear it wouldn't wake me because I was so tired.

I have not been sleeping much in the past 2 weeks. This is common with hydro. I have always had sleeping issues. It was kinda nice in 2003 when I discovered I had hydro and sleeping problems were a common side effect of the condition.

I should be able to be by Chell's bedside I feel like she needs me. I try to comfort her with my words but that's not the same as just sitting there in the room. Not to nurse her but just to let her know I'm there.

Its nice to know if you need to go to the bathroom. I could help her and not have to wait for a nurse. She might just like a wash cloth to wash her face and has to wait for someone to come in. I should be there!

She had every thing planned out where her husband was going to stay with her then unforeseen events happened and everything planned was blown up in smoke the day before surgery.

I feel so bad that my hydro keeps me so tired. I have looked into herbs and supplement for chronic fatigue before. I wonder if I should again.

If I take anything like caffeine pills or drinks they make me so nervous my teeth chatter. I would love any help or advice.

I'm happy seeing the new people reading the blog and learning about me I hope to have some updates soon on Senator Gifford. Paris Tassin has rumored to have sent us hydo peeps a message I want to confirm before I post. I welcome anyone with questions or comments. Even on FB I reply to all comments.

Vertigo

I was on the road yesterday going to one of my long distance doctors. I had a bad spell of vertigo all day. Every time I would get out of the van I would have the usual head rush plus be dizzy for 20 to 30 minutes after. I kept a headache. Every time I tried to walk I would get extremely dizzy and my head would explode.

This is something that has happened several times before. What causes it with me is when I get a bit of water in my ears. I had washed my hair and apparently got a few drops in my ear. We had to make a stop at a drug store to get some swimmers ear.

Before I figured out what caused this I have ended up in the hospital ER. But if you tell a doctor they brush it off and don't see how it could cause these problems. But this happens often in the hydro world.