Diagnosed In-utero
Zoe
Story Written by Self
My name is Zoe. I was diagnosed with congenital hydrocephalus in utero. Growing up, I was taught to be careful with my body and respect its limits. Despite my struggles, I never hated my condition. I learned to never give up, and that my shunt is what allows me to be here and create what I love.
As an author and filmmaker, I wrote a few stories about hydrocephalus and shunts. One of those stories describes how a shunt works. I gave my shunt the name Walerij, and in my story, he is a guy who takes care of the fluid so I can be here and fight for awareness for hydrocephalus!
In 2013, I had my most recent brain surgery, where my neurosurgeon placed a Y connector, allowing for two proximal catheters. Many people have no idea what a shunt is, or have heard of a Y connector, so I try to use my experience to educate them. I was around 7 or 8 years old at the time, so I don’t remember much from that experience. But I do know that my shunt is what keeps me thriving and allows me to build the life that I want.
In my life, one of the challenges I’ve had to face is proving to people that hydrocephalus is not something that disappears with surgery. It’s something you learn to live with. I try to educate people about the reality of living with hydrocephalus.
My parents have always supported me. They knew it was hard, but they never let my condition bring me down. In fact, I decided to make it part of my inspiration, a part of my art that I continue to create and share with the world.
My advice to anyone living with this condition: don’t try to fit in somewhere, be yourself, and learn to cherish your body. Don’t be ashamed to ask for help if you can’t do something. It’s not always easy, but learning to accept it and finding your smile is important.
For me, there is no before and after hydrocephalus. It’s forever a part of me. My condition has become the catalyst for my art, and I will continue to use it to inspire other people who are hydrocephalus warriors.
Tell us about your journey with hydrocephalus!
Share your story of hope and perseverance with us! We will feature the amazing individuals in our community who are living life to the fullest, regardless of their condition! Stories are reviewed by our staff and posted on our website and through social media. Stories should be no more than 800 words long. Click here to submit your story today!
Let’s SHARE. Let’s CONNECT. Let’s raise AWARENESS! Let’s INSPIRE!
For questions, email: info@hydroassoc.org with the subject line “Share Your Story”.