15-year-old Patience was diagnosed with Chiari Malformation when she was three years old. This is where the lowest part of the back of the brain extends into the spinal canal, which can put pressure on the brainstem and spinal cord and obstruct the flow of fluid. This required brain surgery and she underwent this at Alder Hey in 2010.
12 years later in 2022, Patience felt something wasn’t right and was once again diagnosed with Chiari Malformation but also Syringomyelia. Syringomyelia is a condition in which fluid-filled cavities form within the spinal cord and can lead to pain, and loss of function including weakness or numbness. This required Patience to have brain surgery once again at Alder Hey, staying for a total of 10 days.
Despite her troubles with Chiari Malformation, Patience has gone on to represent Great Britain at the European Youth Championships Triathlon in Banyoles, Spain recently. The event was comprised of 70 of the fastest girls in Europe competing against one another.
She raced and qualified for the final, ranking 10th, but was involved in a cycling crash in the final which unfortunately ended her race when she was on course for a top-five finish.
Despite that, Patience has showcased her resilience and is already planning for her next race, which will take place in Eton Dorney at the end of August.
Mum Kirsty said: “The best thing about watching Patience race is the expression on her face when she gets onto the run, you can see peace on her face, a look of calm, no pain, no worries, just her smile and joy. That’s all we ever want for our children, to see their faces light up.
“I feel so privileged that Alder Hey allowed us to continue with her journey. The neurosurgery team were amazing, never once put limits on her recovery, they have always encouraged her and allowed her to push the limits of even their expectations. I am forever grateful; they have looked after her since she was two years old and now, as she turns 16, I know they have given her the best care. I hope they watch with interest in her progress and her achievements.”