In March, we received answers for the constant pain Peyton has been battling each day. She was diagnosed with Chiari Malformation. Chiari Malformation is where part of the cerebellum, the lower back part of the brain, extends into the spinal canal through an opening at the base of the skull. While many live with this condition their whole lives and do not have symptoms, or the symptoms are mild, Peyton's condition is severe and compressing on her spinal cord, which has created a large fluid syrinx (cyst). She struggles with pain every day, and the compression creates more complications such as loss of sensation on her right side, memory loss, and much more. Yet, she keeps smiling! Peyton is such a beautiful, strong, amazing girl. She competes in high school rodeo, she is the Vice President on the team, and an excellent student completing college courses (all while working part time). She will graduate with honors in June 2026. Peyton is truly the type of kid that lights up a room with her radiant smile and positive attitude! Always helping others any time she can. On June 4th, Peyton will be at UCSF to undergo brain decompression surgery. Her recovery is going to be a long 8-12 weeks. She will be in ICU for 24-48 hours after surgery, then depending on how everything goes we are planning to be home by Sunday June 8th. The first two weeks are an "at home" recovery where she will be mostly laying low and the doctor doesn't want her to be out and about. After two weeks she will be able to start slowly getting out however she will be in a hard neck collar for at least 4 weeks. This is definitely a lot for a 17 year old to face; however, Peyton is truly such an amazing kid she is so positive about it all. Please reach out if you'd like to help or have questions. She will have visitors once we get home and settled in. Thank you so much, and please pray for my beautiful girl! Thank you so much!