On this week's episode of the Brain & Life Podcast, co-host Dr. Katy Peters talks with Samantha Lee Schmall, author of Beyond the Shunt, about her personal journey with hydrocephalus. Samantha reflects on growing up with the condition, what inspired her to share her story, and how she's found connection and support within the hydrocephalus community. Dr. Peters is also joined by Dr. Kristopher Kahle, Director of Pediatric Neurosurgery at Massachusetts General Hospital and the Harvard Center for Hydrocephalus and Neurodevelopmental Disorders, who explains what causes hydrocephalus, common symptoms, and current treatment options, including shunts.

Additional Resources

Samantha Lee Schmall- Beyond the Shunt

Understanding Hydrocephalus: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options

Average Joe- Speak Up

Related Episodes of Brain & Life Podcast

Author Tanita Allen on Existing with Huntington's Disease

A Walk in the "Parkinson's" with Author Annmarie O'Connor

Movement and Healing with Adventure Athlete, Author, and Activist Rebecca Rusch

We want to hear from you!

Have a question or want to hear a topic featured on the Brain & Life Podcast?

· Record a voicemail at 612-928-6206

· Email us at BLpodcast@brainandlife.org

Social Media

Guests: Samantha Lee Schmall @beyondtheshunt; Dr. Kahle @mgbneurosurgery

Hosts: Dr. Daniel Correa @neurodrcorrea; Dr. Katy Peters @KatyPetersMDPhD