I Smile Because You Are My Sibling…

I smile because you are my sibling.
I laugh because there is nothing you can do about it.

In 2010, the Hydrocephalus Association established a new program to not only empower and lend support and guidance to young adults living with the challenges of hydrocephalus, but to their loved ones as well. In honor of National Siblings Day, we want to highlight a special group of loved ones in our lives – brothers and sisters, both older and younger, of individuals living with hydrocephalus. The relationship between siblings is complex and sometimes even…shall we say… strained, but there is a powerful, unbreakable bond that endures through the best and hardest of times. Two of our Teens Take Charge (TTC) Advisory Council Members, Harrison Silver and Alexis Rocciola, share a special message to their siblings.

 Stand By Me: A Message from Harrison Silver

Hi! My name is Harrison Silver. I am 15 years old and have two younger brothers who are turning 14 and 10 next month. I am one of the fortunate ones. I have never had any operations after my shunt was first put in at the age of 3 months. I also do not have any outward appearances of hydrocephalus. I am a typical teenager who likes to do things on my own. My brothers, like any other brothers, sometimes bother me but give me space, which allows me to figure things out on my own. They look up to me and respect me, which makes me feel responsible and loved.

Three years ago, I raised money for hydrocephalus by selling refreshments at my brothers’ little league baseball games. My middle brother, Jack, liked to bake cookies and brownies, which we sold at the games. He also sold these to his friends at school to raise money. Both my brothers helped me set up the table and count the money at the end of the day. Two years ago, I raised money by asking people to sponsor me in participating in a team triathlon. Jack swam, I biked, and my grandfather ran. My dad did all three parts with us. He’s like a super human! My youngest brother, Justin, my grandmother, and my mom, cheered us on. Bottom line is that my brothers are always at my side whenever I need help with something.

Together, my brothers and I like playing board games and watching TV. We also like traveling, going to the beach, and experiencing new things. And of course watching, playing, and obsessing over sports. From the Yankees, to the Giants, the Rangers, the Knicks, and the Buckeyes, my brothers and I are always bugging our parents wherever we are to go to a place where we can watch the games. And we usually get what we want. Thanks Mom and Dad! We love you!

Since hydrocephalus only affects me because of the number of times I must visit the doctor, I am able to help my brothers whenever THEY need to go to the doctor. When my brothers are not feeling well or have to spend time going to doctors, I comfort them by reminding them of how often I used to go. I tell them that everything will be okay just like it is with me.

I believe incorporating siblings in Teens Take Charge (TTC) is very important because they can learn firsthand what their brother or sister is going through. I openly share my story with my brothers, but others may not. Because they are being involved, these siblings can help more by learning from the other members of TTC. Also, they give a different perspective that people who have hydrocephalus cannot.

So, to all siblings out there, I am definitely not the only one who gratefully appreciates all that you do for us. Keep up the great work! We really appreciate that you guys are getting involved in a charity that does not personally have anything to do with you. To MY siblings, I do not often say it, but I love you guys. You accept me for who I am and do not judge me. I am lucky to have such great brothers. Thank you Jack and Justin for always supporting and loving me!

Siblings are the people we practice on, the people who teach us about fairness and cooperation and kindness and caring – quite often the hard way.
-Pamela Dugdale

Sisterly Love: A Message from Lexi Rocciola

I have hydrocephalus and my sister, Chiara, does not. When I had my last shunt surgery, my sister surprised me with a gift she picked out herself. It was a t-shirt with angel wings. She said it was because an angel was watching over me. It made me feel a lot better.

My favorite moment with my sister was and has been watching her grow into a beautiful young lady! She has achieved so much and I admire her a lot!

I think it’s important that all of us who have hydrocephalus do not compare ourselves to our siblings. We all are different and not the same. We all have our own unique story to live. Sometimes the families tend to focus on the child with hydrocephalus and we need to remember that the siblings, who are left at home or with other family members, have needs as well.

I would like to send a special message to my sister to tell her how much she means to me and how much I appreciate her. You are becoming an amazing young lady and I am always proud of you! Thank you for being there for me. You are the best sister in the world.

My greatest memories are those shared with my siblings, for they are not simply thoughts of our shared past, but rather stories about our own beginnings.