Living with Chiari Malformation
Mark
Mark talks about his experience of being diagnosed with Chiari Malformation, his life at Seven Springs and the importance of community.
Growing up, I always struggled with walking and balance, but doctors dismissed it as clumsiness and told me to lose weight. I had no idea that I had a medical condition...
Getting a diagnosis
While living at my parents' house in 2002, I fell down the stairs and badly banged my head. The fall led to a series of tests and scans that finally revealed the cause of my balance problems - Chiari Malformation. This is a condition where the bottom part of my brain extends into my spinal canal, causing issues with my balance, coordination, and mobility.
I also have Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus (NPH). NPH causes fluid build-up and puts pressure on the brain, leading to neurological complications.
Surgery
After getting my diagnosis, I had Chiari decompression surgery. The surgeon removes a small bone to reduce the pressure on the brain; this helps ease or stabilise symptoms.
I got MRSA during my hospital stay, and I was in the hospital for 12 weeks, with six of them spent in intensive care. I had to learn how to walk and talk again. Shortly after this, I fell and banged my head. I now use a wheelchair.
The sense of community at Seven Springs is incredible. The staff and residents have become like family to me, and I've made many friends during my seven years here.
Finding the right place and gaining independence
Once I started using a wheelchair full-time, I realised I needed support. I visited a few different care homes, but none felt like a place I could call home. That's until I found Seven Springs. The minute I entered the building, I knew this was the place for me.
At Seven Springs, I've found a community of people who are supportive and encouraging. I live in a bungalow, which gives me a lot of independence, but I also have access to help when I need it. Independence is crucial for me to lead a happy and fulfilling life, and I'm grateful for the support I receive here.
A sense of community
One of the best things about living at Seven Springs is my best friend, Pierre. He lives in the bungalow next to mine, and he has cerebral palsy. We enjoy going into town in our powerchairs and exploring new places.
Sitting out in the gardens or going to local parks is also one of our favourite pastimes. My friends and family visit me at Seven Springs, including my six-year-old nephew, who I'm extremely close to.
The sense of community at Seven Springs is incredible. The staff and residents have become like family to me, and I've made many friends during my seven years here.
