What is a Craniotomy?

In 2021 my life took an unexpected turn. I underwent a craniotomy on June 14th after my arteriovenous malformation (AVM) exploded, a medical emergency that changed everything. An AVM is a tangle of abnormal blood vessels connecting arteries and veins in the brain, disrupting normal blood flow. Mine was particularly complex, with three aneurysms nestled in my thalamus, the central hub of my brain that plays a crucial role in relaying motor and sensory signals.

The day my AVM exploded was one of the most terrifying moments of my life. The explosion was sudden and devastating, causing immediate and severe symptoms such as a thunderclap headache, and paralysis. I was rushed to the hospital, where doctors quickly identified the severity of the situation. The three aneurysms in my thalamus had ruptured, leading to intense pressure and bleeding in my brain. The medical team moved swiftly, recognizing that immediate intervention was necessary to save my life. I was then helicoptered to Barrow Neurological Institute down in Phoenix.

The decision was made to perform a craniotomy, a surgical procedure where a section of my skull was removed to access and repair the damaged blood vessels. The surgery was complex and risky, given the delicate nature of the brain tissue and the critical location of the AVM. My neurosurgeon, Dr. Lawton, led the operation with a steady hand and an expert team. Their goal was to remove the AVM and repair the aneurysms, hoping to alleviate the pressure and prevent further damage. They could only get rid of 75% of my AVM, but I am so grateful. 

The surgery was long and arduous, but Dr. Lawton and his team successfully removed part of the AVM and repaired my brain. I was in surgery for over eight hours. My Mom said my face was so swollen from being face down for so long. The recovery process was daunting, involving intensive care and close monitoring to ensure no complications arose. The days following the surgery were filled with uncertainty and challenges as I navigated the physical and emotional toll of such a significant procedure.

Waking up after the craniotomy, I was met with a mix of relief and apprehension. I don’t remember about two weeks after it, the memory is gone. The surgery had been a success, but the road to recovery was only just beginning. My body felt weak, and my mind was clouded with the trauma of the experience. The thalamus, being a critical part of the brain, meant that my recovery would be complex, involving not just physical healing but also regaining cognitive and motor functions.

Rehabilitation became my new reality, with amazing PT, OT, and Speech Therapist’s to help me regain my strength and abilities. Physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech exercises are all part of my daily routine. The process was slow and often frustrating, but each small victory felt monumental. I learned to celebrate the progress, no matter how incremental, and to find strength in the support of my family and friends.

The journey through surgery and recovery tested my resilience in ways I had never imagined. There were days filled with pain, frustration, and fear, but there were also moments of triumph and hope. My determination to overcome this challenge was fueled by the love and encouragement of those around me. I discovered a deep well of inner strength, one that I hadn't known existed before this experience.

Living through such a traumatic event gave me a new perspective on life. I learned to appreciate the small moments of joy and to find beauty in the everyday. The experience deepened my empathy and compassion for others facing their own battles. It also reinforced the importance of resilience and the power of the human spirit to overcome adversity.

As I continue to heal, I carry with me the lessons learned from this experience. The journey is ongoing, with regular angiograms or MRI’s and a commitment to maintaining my health. While the memory of the craniotomy and the AVM explosion will always be a part of me, it no longer defines me. Instead, it serves as a testament to my strength and determination.

I am filled with gratitude for the medical team, led by Dr. Lawton, who saved my life, and for the unwavering support of my loved ones. Their care and encouragement have been invaluable in my recovery. Looking to the future, I am hopeful and determined to live life to the fullest, embracing every opportunity and challenge with the same resilience that carried me through the darkest days.

To anyone facing similar challenges, know that you are not alone. The journey may be difficult, but with determination, support, and a resilient spirit, you can overcome even the most daunting obstacles. Your story, like mine, is one of strength and hope, a testament to the incredible capacity to heal and thrive.