Vlogging with EDS: Staph Infection In My Spine! Emergency Surgery and Goodbye Shunt | Week 96

[@loiscassels8966]

Dear Christina you never cease to amaze me with your endlessly positive outlook. Bless your little soul. Hugs.

[@jennmcswan9900]

Christina is my morning is my day

[@kittymervine6115]

Nurses are angels on Earth. Truly.

[@albanymountainhomestead]

Opioid meds have a place in health care. Changing the narrative around these meds is critical. Needing pain relief doesn't = addiction. NEED vs WANT.... Most people will only do what our body NEEDS to allow the best quality of life. We don't question the NEED for other meds for other ailments, and so we really NEED to change the outlook surrounding the most effective treatment for pain...pray your getting some relief!

[@natalie_watson]

I can’t get over how absolutely beautiful u are!! Even when you’re going through so much you look flawless! And man what I would give for your perfect skin!!

[@TheAgeofFabulous]

If you’re afraid of pain meds because of addiction, you should read medical articles on “Chronic pain patients and pain meds versus Pain meds and Addiction” it’s fascinating because often people who are in chronic pain will not develop an addiction because our pain tolerance is still so high, we’re still in pain that the meds don’t allow us to be out of pain. It’s a lot more complicated than what I’m minimizing to simplistic words but it gave me a little bit more assurance because that is a huge concern of mine. I will only take as little as possible when it comes to pain meds.

[@533134]

The Age of Fabulous I’m not a chronic pain person, and pain meds go to the extreme with me. I’ve heard of that with chronic pain warriors.

[@trishalane83]

Chronic pain warrior here, and I totally agree with what you said. I am NEVER without pain, but the meds keep it at a functioning level(but my mindset is IDK if I am addicted or have a tolerance, if it helps I will take it). Most people who don't have chronic pain will never understand that.

[@TheAgeofFabulous]

Trisha Lane exactly! I know with my upcoming spinal surgery (thanks EDS) I won’t be able to refuse pain meds because that is going to awful for several months.

[@trishalane83]

@@TheAgeofFabulous best of luck with your surgery!! I have 3 levels fused(from 3 separate surgeries)in my cervical spine and have constant pain now. And I just had a total knee replacement, so still healing from that.

[@Rtytanicj]

The Age of Fabulous I am also a chronic pain and chronic illness warrior and have a question... I’ve been on dilauded and other extremely strong pain meds for YEARS... so wouldn’t my body be addicted to it? Even though I still have pain.. even when I’m in like fentynal and ketamine and that stuff. But wouldn’t my body be addicted even though I’m not addicted if that makes sense?

[@jenniferhoran13]

Wow, I am left totally in awe of your strength and positivity despite all of the difficulties and unknowns. I am pretty new to watching your vlogs, but I love how authentic and real you are with your personality and feelings. Thank you for being so open about your journey! I will be praying for healing and clear answers!

[@nikki10114]

W sick ppl have no choice to give up.n its harder wen we all look good ugh

[@AffordBindEquipment]

Mom's are totally the best...as a parent, the fear and heartache and absorbing all the emotion of the moment to stay "up" for one's child is exhausting. Let's hear it for moms!

[@curtisbemis6640]

I was born with epilepsy and I never knew the true fear a parent felt for there child until my 8 year old son had his first epileptic seizure ,

[@shirleynelson3628]

You are so strong willed and speak encouraging words for yourself 😊❤❤❤ Thank you and you are so kind and 🥰 by many people who are very supportive.

[@alexandrac591]

Oh Christina I am so worried for you! I wish you could just be more comfortable somehow. My thoughts go out to your entire family during this hard time.

[@kimleon-guerrero9980]

God bless you Christina, still finding a reason to smile in spite of what you are going through. I’m glad they caught the infection before it had a chance to spread further. My love, prayers and healing blessings are continuing to stream to you. ✨🙏🏼✨🙌🏼✨💖✨💫

[@bevbailie4544]

Wishing you a speedy recovery on your spinal fluid issue! Get the rest you need! Thank goodness for your moms loving support.❤️🇨🇦💕

[@CurvyNerd]

You don’t know me. But, I have been binge watching your videos every time I feel sad and down because of my own health issues. You bring a ray of sunshine into very dark days. I pray every night for your continued recovery. Hugs and love to you and your family. You are truly a sunflower. 🌸

[@veritymarie7139]

Curvy Nerd AGREED!!!!! We all love them for good reason!!🌼🌻🌼🌻🌼🌻🌼🌻🌼 Take care, we are all in this together!💜

[@micuchua70]

Happy birthday to your Mom. I see from whom you have your strength and positivism. You both are my hero and my inspiration of being strong. I’m sending you my love and my prayers. God bless you, chiquita. 😊

[@TeenDream888]

We love you and support you! No matter what, we'll be here. Your constant sunny disposition never ceases to amaze me! Rest up and keep going Christina! You've got this!

[@darkbluematter1753]

OMG, the eyeballs in the prism glasses! That just cracked me up. Thank you again for all the effort you put into these videos. Keeping you in my thoughts.

[@sheilas1283]

What a week you’ve had, Christina. I’m so sorry. Your positivity is always inspiring. I’m so pleased your mum managed to have a nice birthday despite it all. Thinking of you as always. X

[@lindasplaylist100]

God bless you! I have had a long fusion which is trying in it self. But with all you have gone through and all your challenges you fight on with a beautiful demeanor. Hugs and positive energy comming you way. Oh, and your videos are so real and are quickly becoming my favorite!!!

[@myanichols3446]

That was one heck of a week. Sending you all the love in the world! Also, the 'I hate knitting' at the end made me giggle so much. You're awesome.

[@decadentnight]

Love you so much girl you've taught me how to restore my gratitude for life and to enjoy the little things more. And I hope things get much better for you by the end of the the antibiotics treatment.

[@songbird0902]

My thoughts and prayers are with you. You really have such an amazing outlook on your life. You are immensely strong and such a joy to watch. Much love.

[@lukeism2]

And to think.. people sometimes don’t vlog because they’re too lazy or under the weather. You’re an absolute champion.

[@timberelburke]

Good luck sweetie. Prayers and a speedy recovery.

[@penelopepolinsneemeyer4757]

I’m so sorry that you’re having such a tough time darling. Martin and I are keeping you and your loved ones in our prayers xxxxxxxxxxxxx

[@kellyw921]

You are so cute! Wishing you a speedy recovery from this!

[@mycrz2000]

She's so strong!

[@ninadirnimiezenberger5072]

Oh nooo, Christina I am so sorry that all this crazy shit keeps happening to you!! I'm sending you lots of good and get-well-soon wishes from Germany! You and your Mum are both very uniquely strong women, very inspiring!

[@BeverleyButterfly]

Wow what a week! Happy birthday to your mom I’m glad she got to have a day of pampering. So hate that you are going through so much sending much love to you xxxx

[@chronicinokla]

Hey sweetie. I'm really sorry you are going through so much right now. You are such a kind soul. You deserve the best. With healing quick recovery and I know that as strong of a fighter as you are (i.e. stubborn lol) that you and your mom will get to that trip before you know it. Big hugs. Please tell MOM OF THE CENTURY. HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!! she is the perfect example of a mother's love. Always there to fill an ice pack, grab a blanket, drive somewhere, and quietly just roll with the punches. It's obvious how much she loves her girls. Anyway. I hope you are doing better and feeling optimistic if nothing else. Because we chronic people know if that's all we have, it's something to hold on to. Much love

[@gcqldrgirl]

God bless you dearest young lady. I was shocked to read and here this situation. 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼 r always with u

[@LecheVitrineUK]

You are amazing,I completely expected that you wouldn't upload any video this week but here it is just a little late, you keep trooping on we are all rooting for you and cheering you on xxx

[@timmiehawkins1073]

God bless you young lady praying for you

[@queenspade1]

OMG you go through alot. Yet your always hopeful and so positive regardless you situation. I went from a healthy up beat Career oriented a 41 yr old then my whole world changed when I was diagnosed with spinal stanosis and severe fibermyalgia. Then my health went down hill. Now I live with extreme pain 24/7. Never did I see my future living like this. However I keep being the best mom I can be.

[@maryreynolds5310]

Christina, I had to stop the video just to leave this message before I go back to finish watching. I'm sending you a million and one hugs, and want you to know how very much I care! You keep pushing on girl, keep staying positive and know that it will all get better. I don't know you, but I think of you like a true friend...I wish I were closer so I could help in any way possible, because I sure would. Your just the sweetest, kindest most darling person I know. God created the best when he made you..xoxo Ok, I'm going to finish watching your video now. Send my love and prayers to your mom and I keep you and your family in my prayers always!

[@Darjoli8]

God bless you Christina. You are a Warrior Queen! I think we are all amazed by your strength and courage, especially knowing that things are going to be a little tougher for you in the next couple of weeks. On one of my Zebra sites I have a quote by Winston Churchill: "When you're going through hell, just keep going!" Easier said than done I know, but you are a hero to all of us. Hang in there, we love you and your incredible spirit!

[@samanthaelizabeth8330]

Sending you so much love to you and your mom (and family back home!)

[@shawnresor498]

Christina, I'm so sorry you are sick and in pain. Healing thoughts and prayers to you!

[@shekeyra100]

you amaze me how strong and positive you always are even though i know you you must feel so bad in pain and your afraid i think staying in hospital to have iv anti biotics but also have medical help on hand if needed is good i pray they can find away to drain the fluid and that it works xxxxx you have a beautiful soul sending hugs and love xxxx

[@frenchiegirlintheusa]

Happy Birthday, Mrs. Doherty.

[@greyson9283]

I hope this infection sorts itself out quickly! wishing you the best w/ your high pressure symptoms!! 💚

[@Exactpie1]

Christina- don't over stress yourself in the things that you can't control. Your sleep and memory issues are something that I struggle with too since becoming disabled. I know how awful it is in it, but you will pull through. I hate that kind of sleep. You really are trying to stay awake and it just keeps swallowing you. I hope this week is an approvement. You are my favorite thing about starting a new week. For 34 minutes, I'm not alone. We aren't sick oh the same way, but the walls around me feel so isolating. Have a great week.

[@veritymarie7139]

Exactpi right there with you!🙂💕

[@janicebell4786]

Sending love and Angel blessings to help heal you and bring you strength and peace xx

[@swolfie711182]

You are such a bright light in the world

[@trishalane83]

I am soooo sorry for all that you are going through!! You are an ABSOLUTE warrior and amazing! Your positive outlook on life even with all of these medical complications is so refreshing! I hope that your doctors can come up with a suitable and permanent solution for your pressure VERY SOON!!! And HAPPY BELATED BIRTHDAY MOM!!!

[@julieannemichelle]

I feel so bad that you’re going through all of this! You are such a sweetheart and you don’t deserve this medical turmoil. I love your attitude. Please feel better.❤️

[@chantalstout9175]

So sorry ur going threw all this ! U seem so positive and amazes me. My thoughts are with u and hope u get better Soon.

[@veritymarie7139]

Wish I had seen this earlier(grrr utube) You are so loved girl!!!!! Great job on the floss!! It’s gorgeous! Happy Birthday 🎁Mum!!!!!!! She’s so beautiful like you hunny!!!!!!💕💕💕💕💕

[@jamielee9776]

Prayers, Positivity and Hugs

[@estelanavalenzuela311]

Wish you could make videos again we miss you ❤

[@shannonb4820]

Love ur videos ur such a strong person hope u feel better soon happy birthday to your mom ❤️💗💙

[@gcqldrgirl]

Oh Christina. Our families prayers are with you and you family. It must really suck. Prayers coming your way. Our love to u as well, even thought we are complete strangers. 💐💐💐💐💐💐💐💐💐🌈🌈🌈🌈🌈🌈🌈🌈👍👍👍👍

[@ConestogaCreek]

You beloved angel. I am going say prayers for you. God Bless.

[@calibateman]

You are so amazing and strong, I wish I can be as happy and as strong as you during the rough times.

[@de-vine2168]

U r amazing and give me strength with my chronic illness!

[@Stress-relief-insights]

Oh beautiful ❤....these bodies just keep on throwing curve balls :-( So flippen tough.... My heart is with you & resonates with your frustration at being stuck there & your courageous attitude! You have such an amazing spirit ❤ Keep fighting & playing with your art. Art is such a gift & creativity is super healing. I truly understand... It's the only thing I have left & I'm so super grateful for moments of art journaling. Big, gentle hugs from New Zealand. Love Nicole xoxo

[@renremus6294]

Watching you videos always puts a smile on my face- sending you prayers, love, and sunshine! I hope for a quick recovery. Thank you so much you do for all us spoonies! Ily!

[@tardislizard]

I hope they can figure out a good option for you, hun!

[@button4631]

sending good thoughts your way. Happy Birthday to your mom! I empathize with just needing to get out of the hospital rooms. When me and my husband were staying at the hospital with my father in law in the ICU we would just take walks around the empty halls just to not feel cooped up. I dont feel that way so much when I am home and stuck in my bed though, which is strange.

[@Joy.Elizabeth]

Oh no im so sorry ur having so many issues! :( im praying for you constantly! 💜🙏 And ive been there when i had my hysterectomy (at 25) i had so many infections n was doing awful. I went to the bathroom at the hospital n i stood up and i felt that leaking like u said n my biggest incision had burst open n there was so much blood! Its scary! Oh this was the verse my mil gave me when i was going through this. I hope it brings you comfort like it had me! 💜🙏 "God is within he; she will not fall; God will help her at break of day." Psalm 46:5

[@elseberitfauske1574]

so sorry for you , many hugs from Norway. hope you are soon better.

[@Sakire1]

Happy belated bday to your wonderful super mom! I find it ironic that our bodies are rag doll status but we have the biggest inner strength and mental fortitude. Keep moving forward. Lots of love and speedy recovery.

[@MultiFisherofmen]

Wow. Watching this has made me think of my own life and how I am as a person. Closer examination has shown me how wretched I am. You are an example of a what a godly persons character is like. I don’t think that’s possible without God doing a work in you. That or it’s the morphine , lol. You are a unicorn . Don’t see them often. Take care young lady. Be an example to others. Your positivity is contagious

[@ChainofElephants]

Wishing you all the best and a speedy recovery!

[@spac3c0ast]

I hope you’re doing well this week 🖤 some tips for knitting, it’s easier on bigger needles and not the circle needles ( not sure of the proper name, I’m still fairly new to knitting myself). Just keep practicing as you can and you’ll get better 🖤 it’s pretty fun once you get the hang of it ☺️ well wishes and lots of love to you 🖤

[@creativeconfusion]

Happy Birthday to your Mom :) . I hope you beat the infection quickly and start feeling better soon.

[@lisawinters4681]

Sending you lots of love and will keep you in my thoughts and prayers... Hugs from Oregon

[@lauraelisee]

Sending you love! 💕♥️❤️

[@zenderlee]

Dang, you poor girl! I have MCAS and was recently on IV vancomycin for cellulitis around my port site. Turns out vanco is really bad for MCAS, and after the first two days I was having bad MCAS flares. So I do understand how that works! I hope you don't get more than the flushing. You are having such a bad time right now and I'm so sorry.

[@shernandez2276]

Christine, please know that I’m thinking and praying for you and your family. Hopefully the Drs can get to the bottom of this and get you healthy and on the right healing track. Take care! 💖😊💖

[@pkendlers]

Praying for you, dear.... Heal well!

[@jamerayton50]

Omg you poor thing ,I know you go through. Alot but wow,I moan with my illness but what you go through is such a lot bless you and iam so sorry you shunt has to come out ,I hope to god you get better soon sweetheart xsending gentle hugs x

[@cutegirl380]

You got this! Don't give up god got you in the palm of his hand!! Happy belated birthday to the supporter anyone can have!

[@kagomegrrl21]

i just ordered you a surprise on amazon you should receive it by Sept 7,2018 would love to have you unbox it on film get well soon

[@nessapinkruby]

You are amazing Christina!!!!

[@phoebebrunt5971]

Thank you so much for sharing this with us. You are amazing, and I really hope that you can get the energy to keep fighting and get the answers that you need ASAP ❤️

[@colinmcrae8134]

I'm sending some positive thoughts and encouragement to you!! You're a strong girl/woman! 👍👍

[@alarmedunicorn8053]

You're so brave! I had heart surgery when I was 12 so now I freak out at any idea of surgery now. But you do what you gotta do I guess especially in your situation. Regardless. You're super brave and an inspiration.

[@debiargust6596]

Thank you for the update. I was worried about you. I have no idea how you do it all. Youre amazing! And I love your Mom! 🌼

[@RobinPalmerTV]

It’s incredible just how much CSF the body can make, outside of the average 500ml per day in a person with no CSF issues. Good luck with getting the CSF rubbish under control. It really is very challenging indeed. I was in low pressure for 10 years, and then mild - moderate high pressure for around a year after my spinal leak fix. So thankful for Diamox for the high pressure! X

[@teddy2596]

My heart is with you! I hope you'll be feeling much better soon

[@billiebluesheepie2907]

Thinking of you, and the rest of your family with being so far from home too. Hopefully the infection gets zapped and you get another shunt soon. Maybe you can get neuro to order that ‘better’ shunt that they didn’t have time to get when they first fitted one in you. You never know it might be a much better fit for you in the end, like it was meant to be. ...and knitting on one of those circular needles is really hard - give me the straight ones anyday! Gentle hugs from the northwest of England.

[@-------8019]

LOVE YALL...HAPPY BIRTHDAY MOMMA...PRAYERS 4 U ALL..

[@Opheliamamars]

I have pseudo tumor cerebri. There is nothing more painful than high pressure. I wish you all the best.

[@SweetPea112]

Sending lots of prayers and gentle hugs your way! I loved your new t-shirt! You got this!!!

[@bevbailie4544]

Remember God will only give you what you can deal with! You are a strong, positive, and powerful women! You can do this!! Chin up we all have you in our prayers!

[@BNHAalltheway]

Praying for You for all You're going through and that the Dr. finds the problem God Bless You Happy Birthday to Your sweet Mom

[@brittanywatkin3134]

We all love you sweetheart!

[@johnhart3540]

I had a staff infection in my spine when i was younger they didnt fix the spine part so now i hurt allthe time. I will pray for you and i hope to god he helos you the pain can get bad .

[@renyputman7118]

If you ever go to France you should totally visit the Netherlands too! I could show you all the cool non touristy stuff (which are flipping awesome!)

[@Rtytanicj]

Girl u r amazing!!! I have a bunch of chronic diseases and pain... u r a BAF ASS!! Positive and healing vibes sent u and ur families way!! Ps Happy birthday to ur mama!! #bestmamaever

[@chemicalbreath]

Praying for you.

[@andreahultman8272]

Christina, I’m so glad they sorted out what the infection was and that the MCAS calmed a bit. What brand of embroidery floss do you prefer? Wishing you good respite from the pain!

[@barbh1]

You are so right about cheese in France. Love you, Christina and happy birthday to your dear mama!

[@TraciHilbers]

Your mom shares a bday with my youngest daughter...she turned 14 on August 30th...Happy late birthday to your mom...hope you get to feeling better soon Christina

[@eparke20]

Praying for you!!

[@Ally-yv8po]

Sending hugs. Hope all goes well.

[@BornAgainFarmGirl]

Your such a trooper sweetie , I love your color coded thread box !

[@dawnkeith4444]

I hope you don't get too worn out while being in the hospital.

[@oliverclimbsV3]

That last little bit "I hate knitting," me too lol

[@The-ii5mj]

Can you make an Amazon wish list while you are there?

[@NoelSeymourEST2023]

If you have to stay in Hershey, Pennsylvania I’d see if there is a Ronald McDonald House near you. A lot of Ronald McDonald House’s take people 0-22 years old. Just thought I should mention it because it would be so much cheaper. Praying for you Christina.