Dealing with Chiari Malformation: My Journey So Far

I was finally diagnosed with Chiari Malformation just one year ago, despite the fact I have been dealing with symptoms since I was 12 years old. I am now 30 and it has gotten worse the older I get. I used to think I was crazy sometimes. My most common symptoms are: tension migraines, neck pains, blackout spells, blurry vision, brain fog, nausea, fatigue, depression, temple migraines, dehydration despite drinking water like crazy, sensitivity to light and noise, and moody attitudes often due to being in pain. Some days I can’t even get up to walk because every step feels like I’m getting hit in the head( this is usually the point I would go to the ER to receive a cocktail shot and fluids). I do know that I will need the surgery but it’s just very scary to think about, especially since I will need surgery on the top of my spine as well. I’ve been doing a lot of research on surgery but I’m still very nervous. Any tips on what to expect what recovery will be like?