Another Filum Sectioning Testimonial

Jun 24, 2024 | Blog, Chiari, Michelle's Story, Tips + Tricks

Samantha Woodward

Samantha Woodward has had health challenges pretty much all her life. Since the age of 3 or 4 she experienced the onset of chiari symptoms, photophobia, dysphagia, insomnia and orthostatic hypotension. Sam and I met when she reached out to me about the Barcelona chiari clinic and i spoke directly to her to discuss my incredible positive experiences from the extradural filum sectioning. Previously she had failed decompression surgery (the standard barbaric approach to getting rid of the debilitating chiari symptoms) and all her symptoms were getting worse by the day. Sam was able to secure a filum extradural sectioning date and when there was a cancellation she moved up her surgery as her symptoms were becoming unbearable. Her pain which was getting progressively worse triggered her dysautonomia symptoms which encompassed fainting and tachycardia to name a few. These are very serious and scary symptoms and she was ready to alleviate her body and finally find peace and healing. I’m happy to report that a few days ago she reached her 40th post-Filum Terminale Sectioning day from the chiari institute in Barcelona and has improved tremendously since the surgery. She is no longer weak and shaking doing the most miniscule task like spreading seeds in the yard or using scizzors to cut fabric when sewing and is no longer numb and can feel temperatures again in her hands, feet and upper torso. As for the dysautonomia, she is still experiencing some of the symptoms, but has also significantly improved. The biggest change is that she does not have tachycardia issues anymore, especially triggered by pain. She rarely needs to take any pain medications now, where before had to resort to chronically taking Acetaminophen and Ibuprofen repeatedly, all day, every single day especially to stop her heart rate from accelerating. As there are still symptoms that are lingering it’s hopeful that with more time and with engaging in various therapies these will alleviate and have more improvements over time. I wish Samantha all the best in her healing and recovery journey!! Here is Sam doing what she is passionate about, making children and kids toys as a professional seamstress. You can also find her other chiari, filum and syringomyelia awareness designs below:

To spread awareness, Samantha has creatively designed and produced a series of pins that she is selling on Etsy. Take a look and click on the links to purchase!!