18 people in 100,000 have an AVM (.018% of people ?). It’s a malformation of veins in the brain; a birth defect, each as unique as a “snowflake.” You live with this, unknowingly. It may present itself as a bleed. It may never let itself be known. Mine showed up 3.5 months before we got married. It was February 12, 1996. I was 23. I had an AVM that ruptured in the part of my brain that controls my short term memory. I spent a month at Johns Hopkins hospital while the blood was drained from my brain. Our wedding date was set for May 26th, 1996. I had an amazing hair stylist who was able to cover my partially bald head. David had a small microphone on his tux for our wedding video. It’s funny listening to him direct my every move during the ceremony, because I was “foggy.” But I was so happy. It was a dream come true. I was able to have 4 children. I have a crap short term memory, but I have a positive outlook on life. I wasn't prepared for the loneliness I felt during my recovery. My brain and memory needed time to heal. I will always be thankful to my family and friends for their support during this time. I've come to accept and embrace my limitations. I try to laugh at myself, but sometimes it's hard because it's embarrassing. No need for me to elaborate on this at this minute. It's not every day, but it happens. Now, I want to help raise funds for others like me. (TAAF) The Aneurysm and AVM Foundation's saying is "It's only rare until it happens to you." Thank you for finding me TAAF on social media.