Gavin's Story: When Neurosurgery is the Right Answer

Gavin was six years old when she experienced her first severe headache. After her primary care provider ordered a brain scan, Gavin was diagnosed with a benign brain tumor. Her parents met with several specialists but felt her condition was not being taken seriously since the tumor was not cancerous. But Gavin was missing school and unable to participate in many of her usual activities, and her parents were determined to find answers.

Expanding their search outside their home state of Colorado, Gavin’s parents found the pediatric neurology clinic at Boys Town National Research Hospital. There, they were able to meet with both a headache specialist and neurosurgeon during the same visit. Dr. Puccioni recommended surgery to relieve Gavin’s pain and later performed a craniotomy. The procedure resolved Gavin’s symptoms and she is now back to enjoying her favorite activities.

Watch the video below to hear about Gavin’s story and her family’s experience with Boys Town National Research Hospital.