Please Note:  The opinions expressed below are solely those of the author and do not represent the opinions of the editor, publisher, or this publication.

I hope and pray everyone or even just one family will benefit from my story.  My son, Hayden Trent Sobas was diagnosed with Arnold Chiari Malformation, commonly known as Chiari, on his 4^th birthday.  My life from every angle was changed in one moment. 

The only symptom my son had was a few “brainfreeze” headaches that would last 30-50 seconds.  I am not sure if it was my pharmaceutical background or my mother’s instinct, but I knew something was not right and demanded an MRI for Hayden.  I knew there was a problem when the doctors called only 15 minutes after arriving home from the MRI.  My husband and I were in shock and disbelief.  That morning, we had a healthy son and now he would need brain surgery.  We found out that Hayden’s cerebellum, which controls fine motor skills, was descending out of his skull and crowding into his spinal column.  We were scheduled to meet with a neurosurgeon in two days.  All my other problems and troubles seemed so trivial.  God has an amazing way to put things into perspective.  The neurosurgeon explained that brain surgery is the only treatment for Chiari.  Chiari has many symptoms ranging from mild (headaches) to severe (paralysis) and possibly fatality.  At the time of this letter, our course of action with Hayden is for him to be monitored and evaluated every 3-6 months by neurosurgeons in Columbus and Chicago.         

 I went through many tears, “how's” and “why’s” before I realized it happened to my family for a reason.  I believe it was so I could reach out to help others.  I happen to own an all-star cheerleading gym and work with hundreds of kids.  I saw this as a prime opportunity to educate parents on this condition.  I am also asking for your help to spread the information of Chiari with others.  We can Conquer Chiari together!  We can prevent children from being paralyzed or even dying because of their undiagnosed Chiari Malformation.  A person has a better chance of eliminating Chiari symptoms if corrected early.  I am thankful that we discovered Hayden’s Chiari early.  I am also thankful that I am able to realize everyday is a blessing and should be lived to the fullest.  I am also thankful that I am able to help others and it is a wonderful feeling!

            Today there is not a cure.  This condition has destroyed many people's lives.  It is time to fight back!  Join The Battle; for this is not a fight that can be won alone.  It will take the combined efforts of each and every one of us to put an end to this fight once and for all

Sincerely,

Laurie Sobas, Mother of Hayden Trent Sobas

 Here is a list of some symptoms and I recommend that you follow your instincts.

• Onset of symptoms can occur at any age usually childhood or early 30’s

 Education, awareness, and research are our weapons.  Compassion and conviction are our guides.  Strength, courage, and determination will sustain us.  WE WILL WIN!

For more information go to www.conquerchiari.org or to join our cheerleading community in a Chiari fundraiser go to www.ohiocheerforce.com Get involved and make a difference!