Katie's Chiari Journey

I've been an avid quilter most of my life and along the way I have met some amazing people, both online and in person. Another thing that has been a part of my life all along has been migraines. Earlier this year I experienced a drastic change in myself and was getting more severe headaches more frequently but these felt different. Even when I was feeling OK, I didn't have energy to do the things that I really loved including quilting. I went to my doctor and had a bunch of testing and was diagnosed with having a neurological condition called Chiari Malformation and have to have my gallbladder removed. When I got this new the first people that were there for me were some of my best friends that I had met through quilting at a retreat -- my quilt tribe, we are a found family that loves and provides endless support.

I have met with my medical team and it determined that surgery will be the best option for easing symptoms and improving quality of life. Along with the surgery comes an extended recovery and time out of work (6+ weeks). When all this was being sorted out with my health I had designed this shirt with the intention of having it for our retreat attendees this year but now that all this is on my plate the large retreat isn't going to happen so with the encouragement of my tribe -- why not turn it into another way for quilters to support each other.

All benefits from the purchase of this shirt will help in paying medical expenses not covered by insurance and living expenses if I have to take any leave without pay from work.

I am also planning to do a quilt and fabric sale on my instagram account katieschiarijourney