LAUREN BACKGROUND

Lauren Nardulli was born February 28th, 2006 after a normal pregnancy. Shortly after birth, serious medical conditions were evident. A CT scan confirmed that Lauren had hydrocephalus. Brain and Spinal MRI’s determined that Lauren had Spina Bifida Occulata with a tethered spinal cord. She was later diagnosed with Chiari Malformation and Syringomyelia, a serious neurological disorder. Symptoms of Chiari Malformation and Syringomyelia include difficulty with eating and digestion. At 24 months Lauren weighs only 15 pounds. Other symptoms include delayed motor skills and recurrent spinal cysts, which can cause temporary and/or permanent nerve damage.

Because of the comprehensive nature of her disorder, Lauren sees physicians in 11 specialties as well as physical, occupational, developmental and speech therapists. She is a fighter who has endured many surgeries and will undergo more as she continues to grow and thrive. She has been working very hard with her therapists and can now transition to a sitting position by herself and she has also begun to crawl. She has amazed us all with her drive and determination, but she cannot do it alone.