Chiari Malformation Patient Stories

Our stories below profile some of the patients who came to UPMC for brain surgery.

Contact Us the UPMC Department of Neurosurgery

  • 412-647-3685 (within the U.S.) 
  • 01-877-320-8762 (international)
  • Fill out our online form.

Isabella: Chiari Malformation

Isabella sits on a mountain overlooking the coat of the ocean. She wears sunglasses, a blue shirt, and black leggings. She smiles. Her hair is half pulled back.

The first surgery Isabella had to treat her headaches and dizziness didn’t work. After two years of debilitating symptoms, she found UPMC and experienced the healing she’d been waiting for.

Read Isabella's story

MaryMartha Ford: Chiari Malformation

Mary Martha wears a purple sweater and a pink blouse. She has dark brown hair.

An avid dancer and singer, MaryMartha faced with a lifetime of symptoms caused by Chiari malformation. She found hope – and relief – at UPMC.

Read MaryMartha Ford's story