When Kernika McCray was 22 weeks pregnant, she and her husband received some unexpected news. Their baby girl, Kamryn, was diagnosed with severe hydrocephalus.
Hydrocephalus is a buildup of fluid in the brain. Cerebrospinal fluid provides a cushion to protect the brain and spinal cord, but when there’s too much it causes pressure on the brain and skull. This pressure can damage brain tissue and lead to cognitive and physical disabilities.
“Kamryn has a very complicated and difficult to treat diagnosis of cerebral cranial disproportion,” explained Dr. Ritter. “This is when the skull is too big for the brain. It can happen in children like Kamryn who have had hydrocephalus for a long time in utero and the soft skull keeps growing to compensate for it.”
With the early diagnosis, Kernika, her husband and Dr. Ritter were able to make a plan, discuss the difficulties they may encounter and carefully consider each step of caring for baby Kamryn.
“Dr. Ritter informed us that the first year of life would be the hardest, which was not an understatement,” Kernika added.
“They’re fabulous parents. They ask excellent questions. They work together as team. They rely on each other, and they know each other’s strengths. They understand that we’re working to overcome a complex problem and have been patient with the process. I truly feel we are team working on the best outcome for Kamryn,” said Dr. Ritter.
Though there were trying days and challenges, Kamryn bounced back after each surgery, recovering and developing new skills with the help of her parents and CHoR team.
“The PICU nurses especially became a second family to us. They were always encouraging us, keeping us updated, reminding us to continue to advocate for our family, and keeping Kamryn happy,” said Kernika. “Whether it was a ride in the red wagon or hanging out with Kamryn bedside, we knew if we couldn’t be there, she was in great hands with them.”
Today, 18-month-old Kamryn is an energetic toddler who walks, talks and sings. She loves animals and watching Ms. Rachel. She’s making great strides to overcome a few delays by working hard in occupational therapy through early intervention. Her friends at CHoR continue to help her along the way too.
“Thank you, CHoR, for being a place we can come for great care. Thank you to Dr. Ritter and the neurosurgery team, the MRI techs/nurses, the PICU and floor nurses and doctors, the PT/OT team, and social worker Joe for always caring for Kamryn, my husband and me,” said Kernika. “Dr. Ritter has always been someone amazing to rely on, even when we have a billion questions or concerns. We see how much she cares for Kamryn as an individual, not just as a patient. The best part about dealing with a condition like hydrocephalus is knowing that we have a great care team behind Kamryn to help us through this journey.”
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