A Teenager with Half a Brain (Life After a Hemispherectomy)

Mikisa had half of her brain removed in a procedure known as a hemispherectomy. Following this surgery, she went from having hundreds of seizures a day to being seizure-free. Mikisa is now a teenager who desires independence but struggles to complete many tasks by herself. Her parents want Mikisa to know that she is a valued part of their family, and they consider her a gift.
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[@jenerhart7025]

She really had you on the ropes, Chris, didn't she? She has some very serious, deep questions for you. I love how she advocates for herself! Such a strong young lady!

[@maxway1637]

She was advocating for herself greatly

[@LynnFingerhut]

She's very inquisitive. Nothing gets past her! Mr. Chris got interviewed!

[@junbh2]

I loved how she would stop him when he talked too fast or said too many things at once, and ask him to say it again. That will help her so much.

[@abigaillabar8877]

Very me

[@laurelmvh]

Great point!!! This is my impression of her too! If she gave me permission to be her friend, I would be honored 😊

[@carolinematusevich889]

And because of her young age, plus neuroplasticity, she's gonna make even more improvements. She's definitely a medical miracle.

[@2xkonan]

The fact she has a brain split in half and capable of this is still mind boggling to me

[@kimberlychicago7608]

The brain is remarkable. I had a massive stoke and had to learn everything again. I learned by repetition, repetition, repetition. She is young. She will succeed!

[@lauryn6059]

Absolutely. Her future is very bright.

[@PBMS123]

@@2xkonan it's not just split, its no longer connected, and most of the diseased hemisphere was removed. This is different to corpus callosotomy, where the brain is split through the corpus callosum, but both hemispheres are still functional and providing brain function.

[@PBMS123]

The brain is just sooo so amazing.

[@ESSBrew]

"How can I have happy thoughts in my head?" That is such a hard question. Many adults struggle with that everyday.

[@kmorris101]

Yes..our own brain can sometimes be our worst enemy..

[@JoshiTheKitsune]

Same, I'm 15 and sometimes my brain and I will argue.

[@shalacarter5798]

@Sarcastic Fox I hope that you are getting help. When I was your age there was no help. And it was terrible. It wasn’t until I was in college that my uncle sent me to a psychiatrist.

[@shalacarter5798]

@@JoshiTheKitsune I understand that! I hope that you are getting help. Blessings to you

[@williammurray5135]

Happy thoughts are internal, which is joy. You can get joy from serving others and getting together with people who help change your negative perspective. It’s just a perspective issue :)

[@c.mcafeeart1247]

"Give me more suggestions, honey" My heart melted! She's amazing.

[@urmother2090]

“Affir-who?!” She cracks me up

[@Renay27.]

Yes I chuckle 😅her and her sarcasm

[@MamiTT237]

I loved that!

[@wendysalas2815]

Yeah, that was so adorable. She is truly amazing!

[@LinneaAnn01]

same

[@na2672]

Let the mom know you can install a toothpaste holder to the bathroom , it’s kinda like a soap dispenser at a public restroom. I thought it was silly when I saw it at first (it was someone who was rich and lazy to push a tube) but I think it would be perfect in this situation! It might be costly but I think it would really help her in the long run and make her feel independent. That’s so important for people , independence is like freedom :)

[@YocyX7]

Pin this comment !

[@DubMass11]

Wonderful suggestion!

[@Metaphoreign]

Yes! And they're not expensive at all!

[@na2672]

@@Metaphoreign I had no idea , that’s great !

[@audreymcknight]

pin the comment

[@carrenjoye8013]

Our daughter had the same surgery in 2010 when she was 11 years old. She's been seizure-free ever since! And she, too, does things we and the doctors never thought she would, such as horseback riding. She, too, has very few memories from before the surgery. We thank the Lord for that surgery! So happy for your family!

[@Im_Rainrot]

Why do you not thank the Lord for letting her have seizures and needing to have half her brain removed? That's not very loving

[@kaidevaleria2531]

@@Im_Rainrotyou need to step back and think to yourself what the purpose of saying that is. What do you want to accomplish with that?

[@Im_Rainrot]

@@kaidevaleria2531 to question faith, as all should

[@Im_Rainrot]

@@kaidevaleria2531 To question faith.

[@thelingeringartist]

@@Im_Rainrotnot everyone worships. It’s okay. We can live fulfilling and good-intentioned lives without worship.

[@mirrormirror128]

She’s a groovy teen! When she said she minds her own business to avoid the noise, I felt that. Glad to see this family is so supportive and full of love.

[@isaiahblue7269]

I feel bad that she lost all previous memories. I couldn't imagine. She seems so happy.

[@junbh2]

@@isaiahblue7269 It sounds like her life before the surgery was very difficult.

[@DJ-iu5bb]

as someone with high functioning autism I def felt that in my soul like I go in a bar I cant handle it I broke down crying one time cause this bartender made fun of me I dont mean to Trauma Dump on anybody but my Aunt didnt realize how fragile I was I feel better like Sleeping with Cats and taking care of them and feeding them then mean people Shes cool that she has a cool family that supports her I just hope that she gets the right support and everything I dont even know how to take care of myself sometimes so I can imagine the challenges ahead of her

[@SacredWaves]

Toothpaste on the toothbrush... there are auto dispensers for toothpaste now. You place the brush under the sensor, and it places the paste on the brush. Wonderful help for those with difficulty. I purchased one for my friends son. He wanted to brush on his own as well, and has the same hinderance. He cant squeeze the tune and hold the brush too, so... a dispenser worked for him. Just a thought.

[@loisdungey3528]

That's awesome. Would work for all types of disabilities.

[@luisvonbismarck974]

This girl is pure joy, it's impossible not to like her. Props to her fantastic family for having her in their life and to the neurosurgeons for such an amazing job.

[@Plutomaniaa]

and she still got that sass lol

[@karengolder457]

My daughter is a similar age and has had a left hemispherotomy- she’s so similar!! Much love to this fellow hemi family! X

[@christinafelten]

Much love to you and your daughter! Mikisa would love to make some online friends who are similar to her. Let me know if you're interested in having them connect. One of the parts of the interview that wasn't shown was that she was grilling Chris on how to find "community." She doesn't have many friends outside of school.

[@user-jb1mb5xh9t]

Just reactivating this thread! I hope you saw the lovely comment from Mikisa's mother regarding potentially connecting your daughters as friends!

[@katvelyte]

I hope you guys got in contact :)

[@brettfeinbaum]

@@christinafeltenTHIS IS AMAZING!!!

[@felipegonzalez6139]

Cuéntenos más por favor!!! Estos casos aportan algo valioso del conocimiento del cerebro 🙏🙏

[@ShiftyCDN]

Epilepsy is terrible. The treatment is either being medicated for life and/or brain surgery. I had a portion of brain removed, and it changed my life forever--I cannot imagine having to go to such an extreme extent to treat such a mentally and physically draining ailment. Glad to hear she's seizure free! Edit: Temporal lobe surgery stopped the tonic-clonics but I still get partial seizures.

[@Tea_enthusiast]

I hope you're doing great now!

[@xbrandi12345x]

How old were you when you had part of your brain removed?? What kind of challenges did this create for you?? To me, it sounds scary as hell but I have seen enough seizures happen to understand why someone would make a choice to have such a surgery. I am sorry you had to go through that but if it cured a medical issue for you, I am glad you don't have to suffer with the issue anymore.

[@leahtv7778]

No they've actually invented a chip that can be implanted in the brain that regulates brain activity, halting seizures or lessening the frequency/severity. A girl got it done on Netflix's "Diagnosis." I'm sure not everyone is a candidate for it tho

[@naturegirl2110]

They don't call it a disability, but it is. It affects your life in so many ways. Thankfully I'm on the other side. Last year I finally got clearance to get my learners permit. I feel like my life is just starting in my 40s. I'm finally getting my independence.

[@shelby6]

@@naturegirl2110 it really is. Even though mine has been controlled for many years, people don't realise the emotional toll it can take, knowing that you have to always be cautious to avoid triggers, I can't just relax and let loose at a college party like my friends because i have to be aware. The anxiety that one gets going to a neuro and having your meds upped because they saw some abnormalities in your EEG. It's also embarrassing because of the stigma attached. I hardly tell anyone unless I NEED to

[@Nattielockx]

"Maybe I can be positive to myself, Maybe I can think kindly to myself." This brought tears to my eyes. This young lady can teach us all something. Half-brain or full brain - she defo has a sweet huge heart ❤️

[@lovingmayberry307]

The one-on-one time between Mikisa and Chris was beautiful and enlightening. It shows how much she understands, but more importantly, how much she wants to learn. She'll go far and i have no doubt she will do well in an independent, semi- supervised living situation. You're adorable, Mikisa! 💞😊💜

[@blake4604]

What a wonderful conversation between them- great questions and great responses, from both!

[@gemineyecat]

he never "dumbs" down the conversation with any of his new friends

[@XluthiferX]

agreed so much, he's very good at shifting between seriousness and excitement too, he'll completely listen to them when it's a more serious question/conversation.

[@Jazzy.girl.Sarah2023]

I'm so glad she doesn't remember the trauma of the awful seizures. She is so smart and well spoken.

[@meahdahlgren5875]

Right

[@KrystalHarwood-z1b]

no offense to her but she reminds me of a kindly old woman

[@sophie1564]

Mikisa is so expressive, inquisitive, intelligent, determined, and confident. I love how she advocated for herself and wasn't afraid to ask questions - very important, profound questions. Go go go Mikisa! You have such a bright future ahead of you!

[@myob3839]

ugh so proud of her 💜

[@Celisar1]

She is a sweet child but cognitively disabled. I hope she has a happy life ahead but don’t see from where you got the „such a bright future“ part.

[@StrikesPerception]

@@Celisar1You should probably commence reading some neurology, and specifically about the relevant medical case. Otherwise, you’ll never understand what we mean.

[@darthbahnsen3832]

@@StrikesPerception you're too gentle. more like.....@celisar go grab a dictionary, look up every word in its respective usage in relation to the OP's statement " You have such a bright future ahead of you," agree that the OP's statement is pristinely factual, and then apologize for making yourself sound like an utter and abysmal failure of a youtube commenter.

[@stevenswiel8015]

One day you will be smart enough to still go to university. God has miracles

[@RhododendraLynn]

When she said, "Oh I know! I am helpful!" I smiled so big. It was so nice to watch her start to understand the concept of affirmations and the moment where she thought of one herself. That must be so rewarding as an educator. Great job, Chris. But mostly, great job Mikisa. Don't ever stop asking questions. It is the best way to learn!

[@DigiLas]

Oh my word. She's so eager to learn. She's free to say when she doesn't understand something. I'm in love with her. Watching this just melted my heart.

[@zweij]

The fact that such an operation is possible and can leave a human body functioning so well is incredible... Hugs from Poland!

[@carisaunders2346]

"Give me some suggestions, honey." Haha, i love how she kept putting you on the spot. What a beautiful girl.

[@chrismiller3757]

My gosh my heart melted seeing her coming up with her own affirmation, you could see how happy it made her to say that to herself

[@saundramoody4756]

😊

[@Virtuous1978]

😢😢 Yes ........ There's a genius in there , fight , determination

[@beccac6812]

Chris truly has a gift for communicating with anyone in a respectful way , and actually connecting to them. He is so patient , so intuitive .

[@ShawnGetty-eb1gj]

100 percent agree. His ability to make everyone feel comfortable is unmatched. Chris might be the kindest person to ever exist.

[@TheNoonie50]

12:01 When she folded her arms, and said "Give me some suggestions honey"!!! My heart....:) Keeping Mr Chris on his toes. Love this family. Mikisa is lovely.

[@juliannehughes8753]

"Give me some suggestions honey" omg I love Makisa she is hilarious such great dialogue between you two. It's amazing how strong she is and hasn't seemed to loose any personality through her struggles💕

[@jacquesc0usteau]

Mikisa is wonderful! I think a toothpaste dispenser that squeezes it out could be really helpful for the teeth brushing! You just put the tube into it and it works on a sensor.

[@taylor3950]

That’s a great idea!

[@owmyeyeseverythingissobright]

simple and effective, great idea

[@LK-3000]

An awesome suggestion!

[@imanirussell2709]

was just thinking this! great suggestion

[@dru1432]

"She's already an artist." What a cliffhanger. I'd like to see her art! 🧡

[@katvelyte]

I'm hoping we get a follow up on her. She's so sweet, polite and interested in what people have to tell her and I would love to see some of her art too.

[@kristinsawinski2072]

She is so amazing! The way she asks questions of Chris about how to be independent and positive in herself.

[@junbh2]

Yes! And she keeps asking for clarification when he says something she doesn't understand or when he doesn't answer what she was trying to ask.

[@DARKINBLADE.]

I’m really surprised with how intelligent she is when speaking. She could be a motivational speaker as an adult, easily.

[@tessam11]

My number one tip for working on increasing independence is talking to an occupational therapist, if that’s a possibility for their family (and if they haven’t already). I’m an occupational therapy student right now but so much of what occupational therapists work on is focused on improving quality of life and helping people of all ages and abilities to be more independent in the areas they want to!

[@ClearwaterKB]

My son struggled with completing multi step instruction, including almost all ADLs. Within 6 months, his positive progression into independence was insanely miraculous. Does it mean he can perfectly complete all ADLs without assistance or direction, no. But, I no longer have to wash his face, brush his teeth/hair, get him dressed and get his shoes on every single day.

[@shalacarter5798]

When I was five years old, my uncle Lester had a stroke. This would have been in 1970. His occupational therapist had him make jewelry. The stroke affected his right side so it was a struggle. But he was amazing! He would buy slabs of semi precious stones and cut them and set them. I still have pieces of jewelry that he made. I was so proud of him.

[@rtracy1216]

As a practicing ot provider out in the world I would suggest the same thing, not just in the school setting, especially since self care is so important to her

[@TheRainbowGal]

I’ve watched a LOT of these and they all bring me joy but man… Mikisa is pure JOY.

[@4cassilyfe]

Mikisa is such a teenager. She wants to be more independent. I am so glad her parents adopted her and she is being cared for.

[@MossyMozart]

Mikisa really talked Chris into a corner! You go, young woman! And what a lovely man to embrace this special child with special needs and take on the role of her daddy. Mommy is golden, too - VERY golden!

[@AlishaHerbiederbie]

I love that she asks for examples, it takes a smart person to ask for the answers we don't have!

[@lifeasquay1025]

Aw I love her so much. Shoutout to the family who adopted her and brought her in. It looks like she has braids so that’s really inspiring that they are still teaching her culture in her life. Make sure her hair is on point always don’t want this baby to be teased she’s such a sweetheart but kids can be mean!

[@julieweegens]

I love that halfway through this has turned into her interviewing you.

[@yesterdaydream]

Blatantly asking for practical suggestions is something I want to make my brain do more often!

[@Chocolatedrop50]

YES.....I was laughing because she started interviewing Chris and keeping him on his toes with those questions. He couldn't by pass anything too fast before she asked, what that means or give me some suggestions Mr. Chris. I LOVE IT 😍. She's functioning fine. Out of all these many interviews he's done, I never saw him being interviewed by a possible journalist.

[@moniquehamilton5195]

@@Chocolatedrop50 Each time she called him Mr. Chris, I was touched. Thanks Mom and Dad.

[@pollypocket7125]

She is hungry to learn and it is so beautiful I almost cried just seeing her vibrant eyes and how well she articulated herself! If I were her mom I’d be very proud of this young woman! Good job, encouraging her Chris!!!

[@NoitisOpposition]

She's so sweet. I don't know why but she gives me granny vibes when she does that, "ooo" and called Chris, "honey"😂 adorable.

[@Jalamo07]

This is my favorite interview. She is too cute and smart

[@Nan-59]

I just LOVE ❤️ this interview! This girl is really keeping Chris on his toes! Love it! ❤️‍🔥

[@deborahkelly1489]

Haaahaa, that was exactly what I was thinking. She is giving Chris a run for his money, it’s keeping him on his toes. Great interview !

[@Acovado0222]

She is so bright. She can light up the room whoever she goes. She truly is a blessing and her parents are blessed to have her as their daughter. You can tell that she would be an amazing friend to have as well 😊

[@balaam_7087]

I’m so so happy your seizures are all gone Mikisa! And trust me, it’s hard for a lot of us to power through all the challenges and mishaps life throws our way. You’re in good company!

[@eden2hot]

i love how clear she is with how she speaks, even if she cant quite get the right word she knows what shes trying to say and i love the fact she will correct him every single time. i didnt even know surviving like how she does was possible, but shes more than surviving.

[@shilohsmischief]

Hearing her talk about how she wants to think about herself made me wonder what she does think about herself ☹️ She’s so bright in terms of intelligence AND personality, and her smile matches that personality too ♥️

[@margaritakmp]

Agreed, you could see her reluctance to call herself smart or strong, she wasn't happy until she found one that she agreed already described her. My aunt has an intellectual disability and she hates when people call her smart, which breaks my heart. It's clear she has an internal monologue, we will just never get to know what it's saying.

[@shilohsmischief]

@@margaritakmp right!! The fact that the one she wanted to use was “I’m helpful” gave me some insight into the fact that she feels like her worth is tied to how much she can do for others. I hope she’s able to see how important she is regardless of how helpful she is to others. I hope the same for your aunt ☹️

[@junbh2]

@@margaritakmp I can sort of understand why someone with an intellectual disability might be uncomfortable being called smart. I guess it might feel like when people say that to you, they're implying that being smart is very important and one of the best things and that it would be very bad not to be smart? And you know that you have an intellectual disability so aren't necessarily 'smart' in the most common definition of the word. Maybe they need to have a discussion about different things people mean when they say smart?

[@junbh2]

@@shilohsmischief Being helpful is a great thing to be though! She should be proud of being helpful :). As well as many other things, not just that, but it is a good thing to be.

[@shilohsmischief]

@@junbh2 I agree that being helpful is valuable! I also think that everyone deserves to have an identity that’s separate from what they can do for others

[@princess_ama]

I watched a video about Mikisa’s adoption from Uganda many years ago. Glad to know she’s doing alright. 😊

[@oluwatoyinshuaib500]

I love Mikisa...she took Chris to task. Well done Chris 👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼😊👍🏼😊

[@staffygrrl]

She’s absolutely amazing and so motivating.. prime example of what a true loving, kind human being should be. She wants to know every single detail of how things work, she loves learning and that is truly working out in her favor ❤

[@corallie7746]

She reminds me of some of the clients I work with. I am a psychology trained disability support worker. I love my job, I love working with people just like Mikisa everyday!

[@MermaidMakes]

I'm a direct support professional. This channel really inspired me to get into this kind of work. I just wanted to say, You said it sister!!! I love learning about all these people and what I can do better to help people who need it.

[@pollypocket7125]

This sounds like something I’d love to do! ❤❤❤❤

[@MermaidMakes]

@@pollypocket7125 look up direct support professional jobs in your area!! We are desperately in need all over the country.

[@shalacarter5798]

@@MermaidMakes This sounds like a great job for my daughter. I’ll have to look into this

[@MermaidMakes]

@@shalacarter5798 please please do. We are desperately needing good people all around the world. I don't know if it has a different name overseas but in US and Canada the title is Direct Support Professional or Community Support Professional. My organization is not for profit and our wages are paid through my states Medicaid. I think most are not for profit, I don't know if I'd trust a private "caretaking" company just because they'd be doing it for the money, and some of the coworkers and supervisors might not be so wonderful (we had to have an emergency staff meeting about code of ethics and conduct recently because a person from a private company further up north was investigated and charged for serious neglect of a client). Since we are government paid we have to follow codes and guidelines. We get certified in CPR, medicine administration, and basic emergency medical response.

[@pollypocket7125]

This has to be one of my very favorite interviews I’ve seen Chris facilitate, and I have watched for YEARS! This girl is a rock star! 🎉❤

[@cameronb1528]

So absolutely fantastic! Love her sense of humour so much! Literally laughed out loud when she called MrChris “honey”

[@sadierockins9290]

Same! 😄

[@heatherphelps7379]

Me too! 🤗

[@akasharamirez5715]

🍯🍯🍯💁🏼

[@livicent208]

Mikisa is such a cool young woman. She so eager to learn and also very open about what she wants to learn and where she struggles. That’s an important skill!!😊 also her relationship with her mum is loving and heartwarming, I immediately texted my mum 🙈❤️

[@kendra8888]

She is so sweet, witty, and eager to learn.

[@EV1973]

This was magical to watch. Her thirst for conversation and your dialogue was everything pure in this world and the most honest example of hope and kindness i have ever seen.

[@Bicth97]

She is amazing. Her pre-surgery life sounds like it was very difficult, it's incredible how much the damaged brain must have been weighing her down. I'm happy she can live the rest of her life safe and sound with a caring family.

[@kaylanoel1868]

I love how aware of herself she is! She speaks so well to you and really effectively communicated her thoughts and questions. She's incredible

[@TheKelseyRosie]

The fact that she is just so joyful over her dad making lunch for her everyday. Brought tears to my eyes. The simplest acts can make someone feel so incredibly loved. ❤

[@joanspragg9395]

Wow this young lady is an intelligent lady, I think the questions she was asking you Chris really put you on the spot a couple of times. I am happy to see so much love in this family. The mom is great to speak intelligently when answering questions and not just saying anything just to give an answer. I wish this family lots of love and happiness for the future 💛🐝🌻

[@yesterdaydream]

Love how eager Mikisa is to learn new things! Accommodation suggestions: Maybe try brushing with mouthwash on the toothbrush if that is easier. Or put mouthwash/toothpaste in your mouth and then brush. I believe there are also some pre-pasted brushes, and pre-portioned toothpaste dots you can chew a bit so it turns pasty. Good luck!!

[@LK-3000]

Wow, what a wonderful suggestions. This community is so helpful.

[@bubblesxo]

Yes this is a great idea plus the suggestions for automatic toothpaste dispensing devices.

[@jeremybyington]

I also quickly discovered that automatic toothpaste dispensers were a thing when I was thinking about how there are automatic soap dispensers, but I can see a real benefit in learning to stick the paste in her mouth first because she can do that anywhere like a friend’s house or a hotel and not worry that she forgot the dispenser at home or whatever. Sometimes simple is better.

[@slc1161]

Mouth swabs. They have paste in them. You wet, brush, rinse brush, then dip into mouthwash.

[@sportsfan9040]

Great suggestions! There's also toothpaste dispensers that put the right amt on the brush for u

[@diane9247]

Oh my, just surviving cerebral malaria at all is remarkable. You're a great girl, Mikisa! Keep drawing, keep painting, keep singing! 💕😽💕

[@vdussaut9182]

It’s hard to explain how I can feel so much love for someone I don’t even know. This sweet girl is just breaking my heart with joy from how precious and happy and honest and adorable she is. Her singing to her sister and seeing the love her sisters have for her is bringing tears to my eyes. I’m so moved, just wow.

[@amandajovel]

Exactly how I feel too ❤

[@sydneychristensen2058]

It was so cute that she was asking so many questions. She has such drive to learn and get better and she will do great things!!

[@stephanieoregan]

"How do you deal with all the noise?" "I mind my own business." If only more people lived by this standard.

[@jeremiahallyn4603]

Isn't that the absolute truth! A lot of people could learn from this awesome girl 👏

[@annalomonossoff640]

I have a family history of birth defects and I've been afraid to have children in case I have a child with disabilities. Bit these interviews have shown me that people with disabilities can live good lives full of love, and I'm seriously considering having a baby because my fears have been allayed

[@marlieshagg6144]

Wow! 🙏

[@livinglifewithshariah]

Autism, etc. ADHD is not a death sentence. I love to hear that do you know a lot of people have undiagnosed ADHD autism etc.

[@jordanknotts3424]

My gym/health teacher in middle school’s son had to had this procedure due to seizures as well. I recall that he explained to the class about his sons condition and some kid asked “do you ever call him half brain?” The whole class was silent but the teacher just chuckled and said no we don’t call him that. The whole class immediately shamed and roasted him for his insensitivity. If anyone ever tries to bring you down just remember you’ll always have supporters and people to have your back! This was a great interview

[@yesterdaydream]

Yikes! There are curious, well-meaning questions, and then there's...that kind of question. Wish I could've been a fly on the wall to witness the reaction of your empathetic class! Hope that kid learned a lesson without being too traumatized himself lol

[@lolsamftw]

Sorry but I burst out laughing at this comment it just sounds like awkward

[@roleat]

It's not a crazy question for a kid who thinks abnormally. Maybe his parents point out his flaws.

[@MintyMoni]

I love that kids are becoming more aware and sensitive now adays. I think it's actually pretty cool that the class roasted the guy trying to clown on a disabled kid rather than laughing along with him. Good on em.

[@myob3839]

i really really really loved getting to see teacher and mentor chris not just behind the camera chris. this interaction highlighted why he’s doing what he does and why there is no one better suited for it.

[@rumham7466]

9:37 that made me smile so big. What great and insightful questions. She’s wonderful. She really wants to learn and she takes it all in. She will go very far Edit: 14:41 she learned “affirmation” so quick and she had just asked what it meant. And then have a great example. I love this video!

[@julesc1989]

It was so heart warming, she is such a curious and wonderful soul, and I agree, she will go far, also though because she has a spirit for learning and a wonder for the world.

[@chasepenn9790]

Oh my lord this is beautiful. What a sassy young lady! She made me laugh whenever she said "Well give me some suggestions, honey" haha it's amazing how capable she is and how much of her personality she can express by herself.

[@ForestFire369]

Wow, what an awesome kid!!! Mikisa's got to be one of the coolest people I've ever seen. She comes off as just mildly intellectually disabled, not /missing half her entire brain/. Mikisa is incredible, I can't believe how resilient she is. Being the person she is after that surgery 😨... It's nothing short of brilliant. I want to give her a hug and tell her how cool I think she is. Then do a puzzle or some colouring with her. 😀

[@junbh2]

It's even more incredible when you realise that she spent the first 9 years of her life constantly having seizures day and night. It would have been very hard for her to learn in those 9 years.

[@TheEternityForce]

Mikisa has so much personality, and able to put into words problems that I would've struggled with. Like how she describes anxiety and the difficulty of taking care of oneself. Her ability to voice her frustrations in a calm, cute manner when she couldn't understand the question is actually inspiring. Mom and Dad have done excellent to teach her communication skills, that myself lack. What a wonderful real and loving family.

[@finnmcnairbransen6507]

I recommend toothpaste that comes in a plastic squeezy bottle with a flip top. The toothpaste inside is a little runnier and comes out of the container easy with just a squeeze. It comes out especially easy if you store it upside down, and the lid is flat so it can stand on either end. The lid can also be opened with one hand. I have seen it in both mint and fruit flavours. Additionally the label is often plastic, and the bottle is often clear, so you can peel it away and be able to see how much paste is left inside the bottle until you need a new one. I don't have the exact same issue with specifically toothpaste, but I understand how it is difficult to struggle with some things while also having a desire to be independent. For example I cannot put sheets on my bed by myself and often forget to take my medication. I hope this helps the world to be a bit more accessible to you Mikisa! It was great to watch your interview.

[@bluefirekin-aria]

Oh my heart, Mikisa you are fabulous! I loved when she said people need to ask her permission to be her friend. What an insightful reply. She knows her self worth and has great boundaries. What a beautiful, bright spark she has!

[@sadalien9049]

I love how curious Mikisa is. Being willing to learn is a very good trait to have. Also, good idea for toothpaste is one of the machines that you push a handle while holding up your toothbrush and it'll release toothpaste easy. 😊

[@ThaMobstarr]

Regarding the toothpaste situation: I thought about maybe fixating the toothpaste in some kind of way to a wall in the bathroom. Similar to a liquid soap dispenser. That way Mikisa could just concentrate on holding the toothbrush and pressing the toothpaste tube, instead of also having to manage coordinating the toothpaste. I don't know, just a quick idea. Anyway, this is a great interview, I really loved listening to you Mikisa! I am really happy that you have such a wonderful family around you and that you are doing so great! You go girl!

[@JurLLu]

I wish I could ask Mikisa permission to be her friend. She has such a vibrant personality! It’s inspiring. Like most if not all the people interviewed in SBSK.

[@fluffy2840TTV]

Having only half your brain and being able to function as much as she can is such a blessing from God for her!!! I love how everytime it was just her and you on camera she was asking you for advice on how to make her life more independant and easier. I probably also do that if I ever got to meet you, Chris

[@catanonimus7]

Lol, what a blessing from God to leave a child with half of her brain. Brilliant. Do you, believers, ever hear yourself?

[@ahmedmohamedali7304]

Her smile is just radiating with positivity. I never thought someone with have a brain could actually hold conversations that well... in fact, I never thought it was possible to live functionally with half a brain at all. I was smiling just like she was the entire video... she's keeps on asking question after question, she wants to learn more and more regardless of her limitations. Amazing, hope she stays happy and loved and achieves all her dreams!

[@r4v4g3r]

The crazy thing about the human brain is it will sort of fill in the blanks over time without even an entire hemisphere. Undoubtedly, the remaining half has adapted and is able to achieve some of the things the missing hemisphere was responsible for.

[@Shannete572]

Praise god 🙏🏾 she’s doing so well, I also suffered with seizures too. I can connect to her story

[@smoocher]

Such an amazing, beautiful, and caring family! It's incredible how much Mikisa can do with half of a brain. I can totally relate to the sensory overload in loud areas, and I have both hemispheres. I can't imagine what it would be like with just one. She's a strong and determined young lady.

[@meierboy97]

As someone with a seizure disorder, mine is autoimmune encephalitis so its inflammation in my brain, I am so happy to hear she is doing so much better and hasn't relapsed. She seems to be doing really well with what she is going through, I can't imagine. I was so impressed by her speech.

[@bepowerification]

Autoimmune encephalitis sounds horrible.. wish you all the best

[@Laura-kl7vi]

Sending you best wishes as well!

[@meierboy97]

@@bepowerification thanks, I've had it for about a year now, and now I have 4 autoimmune inflammatory conditions. I've had Crohn's for about 10 years and this one for the past year. Had 6 hospitalizations for seizures in that time. Thankfully been out since September.

[@meierboy97]

@@Laura-kl7vi thank you, I'm staying strong and doing my best, my family is really helpful.

[@meierboy97]

And I'm only 25

[@creativegenius4671]

What a bright and shining star 🌟 I feel she's an old soul, definitely has been here before! Smart sweet heart! I see why this family would want this sweet child to be apart of their family 😊🤗

[@Tranquility32]

Mikisa, You are so amazing, so beautiful, sweet and smart! And Mom, you explained everything so perfectly for us who don’t understand hemispherectomy. Thank you. Wishing you all very well, God’s blessings, and lots of love & happiness always!

[@MaayasDiary]

Lol I started to crack up when she said, "Give me some more suggestions honey: TIMESTAMP: 11:59 " I would never have the courage to call anyone honey. I look up to Mikisa! Love u girl!!

[@Jakeysfavoriteperson]

She is a beautiful teenager and I'm happy that she's thriving!

[@nicolestewart]

This young lady is wonderful. She’s one human that we need in this world.😊❤❤❤

[@roserichter7834]

I could not help but smiling watching this sweet soul!

[@anabelleb9919]

So I had a traumatic brain injury when I was a baby it damaged my frontal, temporal lobe and I’m doing fantastic I Shouldn’t be walking or talking but here I am. We are amazing. I would love to interview with Chris one day.

[@bubblesxo]

I love her so much she’s so open to learn and improve herself despite her circumstances. It’s making me tear up. We could all learn from her.

[@sarahmartinez5043]

I love this interview! Her desire for independence is so inspiring ❤

[@23Pepper]

Such a smart and beautiful girl! Imagine if all teenagers were so motivated to actively better themselves...

[@jordynsmith6450]

"Give me some suggestions, honey" hahaha I freaking love her, she got soul ❤️

[@shawtythaasiyah4166]

Awww she’s so gorgeous I love her attitude and her outfit is cute

[@AlexisTwoLastNames]

i am socially anxious and get nervous interacting with people that i feel like i could offend with my ignorance, so these videos help me learn how to talk to people who are different from me and maybe have difficulty expressing themselves as easily as i do. i wanna make more friends, and this channel really shows me that most people are willing to make them too.

[@TheLapri84]

Beautiful family! Mom is amazing and daughter is so intelligent ❤️

[@ruthn9381]

The parents did a wonderful job.

[@Yooperskepticz]

Mikisa is such an adorable young woman! Her wonderful personality just leaps off the screen. It's totally normal for a person her age to want greater independence, and she has a great attitude for going about it. Her parents were wonderful, great interactions. Such a happy video!

[@meritcooper]

Mikisa is so sweet and honest. Good job, parents.

[@atlantisconstantine]

I’m newly 18, so Mikisa is very close to my age. While my physical&mental disabilities are not as impactful developmentally, I struggle to be more independent and I identify so heavily with her! Wish the Family the best!!!

[@JPjaybird]

She’s amazing! What a bright light!

[@SherryAnnOfTheWest]

I have a teaching degree, but never taught in a classroom setting after graduation - instead I went to work with intellectually/physically disabled adults. I can easily be overwhelmed with a large task like "teaching independent tooth brushing," so the first thing I did was either find or develop a program (step by step) for tasks. Break the large task into a bunch of small tasks. Of course, that's accepted protocol in the field, but adapting programs to the person is so important. It sounds like Mikisa could benefit from some similar "programming." She's a lovely, eager, charming young lady. I hope she knows how much her family loves her.

[@Monica-gene1]

Yes. I taught in a self contained class and we literally had to break down every step for example to even going to the bathroom.

[@laululla]

Occupational therapis are ones who work on daily tasks. They have knowledge about tools and aids what one need if only one arm is functional.

[@SherryAnnOfTheWest]

@@laululla yes, but that method is also used in the residential setting - generally using programs and adaptive methods rather than too many tools or adaptive equipment. If equipment made the tasks easier and gave much better quality of life, then of course they're used --- but generally, we started with behavior modification and breaking down tasks in order for them to become familiar and easier to perform.

[@MellenNorway]

She IS smart, she clearly LOVES to learn! She's so inquisitive and curious, and the joy she displays in everything she says, my goodness! You can't help but love her!

[@Jeffreycrow1986]

We can't say enough how good you are in dealing with these kids! How 'normal' you treat them! (forgive me for the word normal, I am not an English speaker so it's hard for me to proper explain myself) The love, the patience, the guidance, the openess you give these kids just goes a long way! Keep doing what yo're doing buddy!

[@Lucia-yc9zj]

Normal is a wonderful word to use! You said it perfectly! Your English is fantastic!

[@intermidable]

Phenomenal English, my friend

[@lalalax44]

the way mikisa looks at her parents warms my heart 🥹❤️ what a miracle girl 😇