Arnold-Chiari Malformation Support Group
Arnold-Chiari malformation, sometimes referred to as 'Chiari malformation' or ACM, is a congenital anomaly of the brain. Arnold-Chiari Malformation II occurs in almost all children born with both spina bifida and hydrocephalus, but ACM I is typically seen in children and adults without spina bifida.
I was diagnosed with chiari ten years ago and I have been dragged down by this condition ever since. My dream as a kid was to be a police officer and help those in need and keep the right people locked up and the good where they belong but I was told my whole life you cant because you have chiari. I never got to live my life for the past ten years I have had to say no to so many people because of my condition weather it was play football or go to the amusement park because I didn't want to have to be left out all the specific rides or have my friends tell me if it jerks your neck. I've been so embarrassed about it I stopped being in contact with people because I couldn't do anything anymore bed my parents were over protective but I'm taking my life in my own hands now and I need to know about this condition and weather I can fulfill my dreams of becoming a detective for the Florida PD or even making it higher than that in this field please help.
I wanted to offer you some encouragement! I also have Chiari malformation, and have had surgery. I live a pretty normal life now, and do the things I want to do, when I want to do them.
But of more importance, I wanted to let you know that after I had my surgery, I started working with other patients facing Chiari surgery, so I got to know quite a few people this way. In the course of my years now, I have met multiple policemen and firefighters who have become or continued with their careers and service!
I just wanted you to know that it very well may be possible to pursue a career in police work, if that is what you want to do. Have you talked to your doctor about what you want to do? You might also want to consider getting a couple of different opinions regarding your ability to pursue a career in police work. If your case is not conducive with that line of work, maybe there are other areas within the department you might consider.
I wish you the very best of luck, and hope you are able to pursue and accomplish your goals.
However I do let him play like a regular kid most of the time. I would not stop him from being a cop. Know your own body and make decisions on that. Anything that knowingly causes whiplash should be avoided. It could set off a lifetime of symptoms. You arean adult and the risk is now your choice. As parents it is our job to bring healthy functional children into adulthood. The wings are yours now and you fly where you want. Just educate yourself. Talk to a chiari specialist neurologist. Get new MRI's and a new evaluation.