Paediatric doctor at clinic was concerned about Laura's head size. We were referred to Northwick Park Hospital, Harrow . Who in turn referred us to Great Ormond Street Hospital. And that is when a malformed vein was diagnosed, at the age of 8 months Richard Hayward operated and fitted a shunt to relieve built up pressure.

Laura then attended G.O.S.H for regular check ups.

Richard Hayward referred Laura to Wendy Taylor and the operation to seal the vein (embolization) was performed by Dr Pierre Lasjaunias and Dr Wendy Taylor at G.O.S.H in September 1996.

Laura has attended main stream primary and secondary school, where support from teachers was superb.

Laura gained 8 G.C.S.E's during her time at secondary school. Laura is now attending college full time. Last year she passed with merit a G.N.V.Q intermediate in Health and Social Care and is currently in the middle of A.V.C Health and Social Care, advanced level.
Laura's ultimate aim is to be a social worker.

We are very proud of Laura, but we also know we have been very lucky to be living in London when Laura was born and being referred to
G.O.S.H

At the time when Laura was diagnosed with a malformed vein, later called Vein of Galen doctors could not gauge likely quality of life or life expectancy. There was so much we did not know and understand listed below are some guide lines we have learnt over the years.

1. Never be afraid of asking questions.

2. Always ask the doctor about their experience in treating Vein of Galen, in particular how many cases they have treated and how successful the treatment has been.

3. Never be afraid to ask for a second opinion.

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