tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-43145719002431426612024-03-05T01:45:57.811-07:00Chronic Migraine WarriorFinding joy in the journey.Jamiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12251221896260997647noreply@blogger.comBlogger400125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4314571900243142661.post-21015919149453379752024-01-04T21:00:00.001-07:002024-01-04T21:00:00.143-07:00A Year in Review (2022)<i>Note: I wrote this in December 2022.</i><div><br /></div><div>I don't always do a year in review sort of post, though I did in <a href="https://www.chronicmigrainewarrior.com/2022/01/a-year-in-review-kinda-2021.html">2021</a>. I was recently part of a writing group that prompted me to consider some questions about this year.<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2P8oNV-4UkqxziD7BhV2uLORrGd-zG1WZOBuuEgbtB8b2I6uEZ6Diz0tNWHZbZerMZDBcLBk0vBcHlAEQzvuwjl35Vq-0iosgC0N8tGelOFiq67DydOVIeNT40IawuWK33coEpBrp1hTWp4KG-8i5eL5ep59whTJ3-Zww4HVKz1FJ_9ziVaQTeMzJvw/s5472/eberhard-grossgasteiger-xwp6N64jlfM-unsplash.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="5472" data-original-width="3648" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2P8oNV-4UkqxziD7BhV2uLORrGd-zG1WZOBuuEgbtB8b2I6uEZ6Diz0tNWHZbZerMZDBcLBk0vBcHlAEQzvuwjl35Vq-0iosgC0N8tGelOFiq67DydOVIeNT40IawuWK33coEpBrp1hTWp4KG-8i5eL5ep59whTJ3-Zww4HVKz1FJ_9ziVaQTeMzJvw/w213-h320/eberhard-grossgasteiger-xwp6N64jlfM-unsplash.jpg" width="213" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://unsplash.com/@eberhardgross?utm_source=unsplash&utm_medium=referral&utm_content=creditCopyText" style="text-align: left;">eberhard 🖐 grossgasteiger</a><span style="text-align: left;"> on </span><a href="https://unsplash.com/photos/xwp6N64jlfM?utm_source=unsplash&utm_medium=referral&utm_content=creditCopyText" style="text-align: left;">Unsplash</a></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br /></div><div>This year has been an intense year. There has been a lot of deep sadness and grief. Depression has taken hold multiple times. Anxiety has spun me around more times than I can count. Pain remains my daily companion.</div><div><br /></div><div>Through it all, God has remained faithful. I'm grateful for His provision, especially when I don't know what I need.</div><div><br /></div><div>I have overcome a lot this year. I've made it through every single time that I wasn't sure I would. Every time. Every. Time. I will continue to make it through, even when I'm not sure how.</div><div><br /></div><div>I did a lot of hard work this year. I tackled depression with TMS (transcranial magnetic stimulation), Ketamine, and therapy. I completed a 3-week intensive pain rehabilitation program. I consistently showed up for physical therapy, both in office and at home. I made it through pelvic trigger point injections and acupuncture. A lot of needles. A lot of pain. A lot of work.</div><div><br /></div><div>I am a warrior. I’m tired of fighting, and I'm doing my best to find balance.</div><div><br /></div><div>I still have a long way to go to get to where I want to be. Where I thought I would already be. I'm doing my best to accept where I am and continue working to get to where I want to be.</div><div><br /></div><div>I spent time with family and friends this year, both virtually and in-person. I enjoyed moments of love and laughter.</div><div><br /></div><div>I want next year to be full of peace, calm, grace, and abundance. I want to flow through the challenges that will inevitably show up. I want to be present in moments of beauty and joy.</div><div><br /></div><div>Intentionally reflecting allows me to recognize how far I've come.</div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Writing about the obstacles that I overcame reminds me of my strength and resilience, and God's faithful provision.</li><li>Remembering the people and moments that brought me joy reminds me of all that I'm so very grateful for.</li><li>Looking forward to the coming year reminds me that there's space to grow and change, and that there's always hope.</li></ul></div><div>Questions for reflection (and sharing, if you'd like to):<br /><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>What did you overcome this year?</li><li>What brought you joy this year? </li><li>What do you want next year to look like?</li></ul></div><div><i>"Year's end is neither an end nor a beginning but a going on, with all the wisdom that experience can instill in us." - Hal Borland</i></div><div><i><br /></i></div><div class="blogger-post-footer">© 2010-present Jamie Valendy (Chronic Migraine Warrior).
Disclaimer: Nothing on this site constitutes medical or legal advice.</div>Chronic Migraine Warriorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01233477606042199183noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4314571900243142661.post-25246130384241170682023-10-21T09:00:00.003-07:002023-10-21T09:00:00.138-07:00A Letter to Myself<div>It's been 15 years since I was in a car accident that altered the trajectory of my life. I've written and posted about it multiple times over the years. Each time differs, as the grieving and healing processes continue. </div><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0 0 0 40px; padding: 0px;"><div style="text-align: left;"><i>Note: links to previous posts about the anniversary of the car accident at the end of this post.</i></div></blockquote><div><br /></div><div>This year feels different. </div><div><br /></div><div>The past year has included a Pain Rehabilitation Center (PRC) program, Emotional Awareness and Expression Therapy (EAET) course, and attending a writing support group, all of which have provided me resources and opportunities to make important changes in my life and within myself. I will share more about these in future posts. </div><div><br /></div><div>Today, I want to share a letter I wrote to myself. I've written multiple different letters to myself over time. These letters offer compassion, guidance, and encouragement to myself, reminding me that I can and will make it through whatever hard thing I'm facing. They serve as a gentle guide, map, or light for me to get through the difficult times. Here is one such letter. <br /><br /><div>My dear self,</div><div>I know you’re struggling and your heart feels heavy. Pause and take a breath. </div><div>Feel the air come in through your nose and out through your mouth. Notice how that feels in the body. </div><div>You are going to get through this, just as you have every hard thing before. </div><div>Breathe. </div><div>Rest. </div><div>Identify and acknowledge the emotions and core beliefs that come up. </div><div>Be gentle with yourself. </div><div>Write. Writing helps to gain clarity and release hurt better than anything else. </div><div>Pray. Ask God to come alongside you and provide what you need in each moment. He is faithful. </div><div>Reach out. Jeremy is your strongest supporter in life. Allow him, and others, to be there for you. </div><div>Use the skills and tools you’ve learned and strengthened over the years: breathing, healthy coping and distraction, and resilience. </div><div>You are so resilient! You persevere through challenges. You are a warrior. </div><div>Listen to music. Look for beauty. Bake a cake. Play a game. Write, write, write. </div><div>Do these to help you feel like you again. </div><div>Breathe and let go of what you’re able to. </div><div>I’m so proud of you! I'm proud of you for never giving up, for doing the hard work, for always holding onto hope as well as you were able. </div><div>Keep going, you’ve got this.</div><div>Love, Me</div><div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxkzWcp6bjAg-vve7kLldgAZoT_7x-pyIID-VA7eWJlztzcfywCiYAe9mxBIYjUtY8W3UpLDCDtaSmQcbK6lOQznl_hVj6FtDqY1auGykEmKNlxtn_3rhei4RuIG2xMEZbY1cnDvQmC1siskRFRvIVWjU2zgwCvfI3HM-PIe0OtKmXYWf0q_86cZM6H5Wv/s3024/IMG_6246.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxkzWcp6bjAg-vve7kLldgAZoT_7x-pyIID-VA7eWJlztzcfywCiYAe9mxBIYjUtY8W3UpLDCDtaSmQcbK6lOQznl_hVj6FtDqY1auGykEmKNlxtn_3rhei4RuIG2xMEZbY1cnDvQmC1siskRFRvIVWjU2zgwCvfI3HM-PIe0OtKmXYWf0q_86cZM6H5Wv/s320/IMG_6246.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo by Jamie Valendy</td></tr></tbody></table></div>I wrote this letter during the PRC program in 2022. I wrote it on October 10. That day has a history of pain and redemption, over the years.</div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>It was the day that I was in a car accident that changed my life. </li><li>It was the day that I started seeing my amazing headache specialist.</li><li>It was the day that I wrote this letter to myself and graduated from a pain rehabilitation program. </li></ul>A lot has changed in the past 15 years. I have picked up the pieces of a shattered life, more than once, and chosen what to keep and what to let go of. I have fought battles within (and out) that few or no one knows about. I have worked hard to become the person I am, and I will continue to keep (re)building and growing. </div><div><br /></div><div>I've got this!</div><div><br /></div><div>If you'd like to listen to me read this letter, you can! I was asked to share on a recent <a href="https://uspainfoundation.org/building-your-toolbox/" target="_blank">US Pain Foundation Building Your Toolbox</a> talk about the importance of writing. <a href="https://youtu.be/AolqG1FvoUw" target="_blank">Click here</a> to listen on YouTube (<a href="https://youtu.be/AolqG1FvoUw">https://youtu.be/AolqG1FvoUw</a>). I read at 24:00.</div><div><br /></div><div><div>If you'd like to read more, here are some links: </div><div><ul><li><a href="http://www.chronicmigrainewarrior.com/2010/08/battle-begins.html">The Battle Begins</a></li><li><a href="http://www.chronicmigrainewarrior.com/2011/10/3-year-anniversary-of-car-accident.html">3-Year Anniversary of Car Accident</a></li><li><a href="http://www.chronicmigrainewarrior.com/2013/11/4-year-anniversary-of-car-accident.html">4-Year Anniversary of Car Accident</a></li><li><a href="https://www.chronicmigrainewarrior.com/2021/10/reflecting-12-years-post-accident-2020.html">Reflecting 12 Years Post Accident</a></li><li><a href="https://www.chronicmigrainewarrior.com/2021/10/13-years-later-now.html" target="_blank">13 Years Later, Now</a></li></ul><div><br /></div></div></div><div class="blogger-post-footer">© 2010-present Jamie Valendy (Chronic Migraine Warrior).
Disclaimer: Nothing on this site constitutes medical or legal advice.</div>Chronic Migraine Warriorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01233477606042199183noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4314571900243142661.post-16548015319317430942023-09-10T10:00:00.108-07:002023-09-10T10:00:00.133-07:00Suicide Prevention Awareness<i>September is National Suicide Prevention Month. September 10 is World Suicide Prevention Day.</i><div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijDlXez16NYG1PjAcFm0RKR7L0Txugj_HCs83M9dPJ7p1FWUixozQ_GyHRgVw4osXCU3todtsb4vzkcwQdLU6Jqmk2AXIPbvIN2v11gOxEbuNNUCpgEgXTkxdVgvLbwQTn4fVb77j2Eg7zi8ny-EWANVRYjmzTM6US3xxQ68isuo3Xaiskfoe3B7rh1HU/s5118/thought-catalog-t0myyq_X4Pg-unsplash.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3412" data-original-width="5118" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijDlXez16NYG1PjAcFm0RKR7L0Txugj_HCs83M9dPJ7p1FWUixozQ_GyHRgVw4osXCU3todtsb4vzkcwQdLU6Jqmk2AXIPbvIN2v11gOxEbuNNUCpgEgXTkxdVgvLbwQTn4fVb77j2Eg7zi8ny-EWANVRYjmzTM6US3xxQ68isuo3Xaiskfoe3B7rh1HU/s320/thought-catalog-t0myyq_X4Pg-unsplash.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo by <a href="https://unsplash.com/@thoughtcatalog?utm_source=unsplash&utm_medium=referral&utm_content=creditCopyText">Thought Catalog</a> on <a href="https://unsplash.com/photos/t0myyq_X4Pg?utm_source=unsplash&utm_medium=referral&utm_content=creditCopyText">Unsplash</a></td></tr></tbody></table><div><br /></div><div>Suicide is something that hits close to home for so many people, yet we often don't talk about it. There is a lot of shame, guilt, and stigma associated with mental health and suicide. </div><div><br /></div><div><i>We need to talk about our mental health. </i></div><div><br /></div><div>I've shared some about my experiences with <a href="https://www.chronicmigrainewarrior.com/2023/06/depression-what-does-it-feel-like.html" target="_blank">depression</a>, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), panic attacks, <a href="https://www.chronicmigrainewarrior.com/2022/07/grief.html" target="_blank">grief</a>, loss. It's all part of my journey and it's important to share so others know they're not alone. </div><div><br /></div></div><div><div style="text-align: left;"><i>You're not alone.</i></div></div><div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://www.chronicmigrainewarrior.com/2021/01/in-loving-memory-of-jordan-conkle.html" target="_blank">My cousin died by suicide</a> in 2020. It's a heartbreaking and complicated loss. The stigma around suicide affects how we process the loss and grieve. For me, I found that it's further complicated in light of experiencing deep depression and suicidal thoughts at various times in my own life. </div><div><br /></div><div>I do my best to speak about mental health, chronic illness, and suicide with honesty, vulnerability, and language that reduces the shame, guilt, and stigma associated with them. Life is hard enough without these piled on. </div><div><br /></div></div><i>You matter. Y</i><i>ou are enough. </i><i>You are not alone.</i><div><i><br /></i></div><div><b>*The following resources include additional information, support, and helplines*</b></div><div><br /></div><div><div><b>Awareness</b></div><div><ul><li>The <a href="https://afsp.org/" target="_blank">American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP)</a> highlights the <a href="https://talkawaythedark.afsp.org/" target="_blank">Talk Away the Dark</a> campaign: "There are countless ways you can help Talk Away the Dark by initiating open conversations about mental health; speaking up and making sure more people know what research reveals about how we can help prevent suicide; lighting the way for those in distress to feel comfortable asking for help; and knowing what to say to support survivors of suicide loss and provide them the care they need." </li></ul></div><div><div><b>About Suicide</b></div><div><div><ul><li>Globally, more than 700,000 people die due to suicide each year, that's about one suicide every 40 seconds. (<a href="https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/suicide" target="_blank">WHO, Suicide Prevention Fact Sheet</a> and <a href="https://twloha.com/find-help/help-by-topic/suicide/">Suicide – TWLOHA</a>)</li><li>In the U.S. (2021), there is a suicide every 11 minutes. (<a href="https://suicidology.org/facts-and-statistics/" target="_blank">Suicidology, Fact Sheet</a>)</li><li>Suicide is the 10th leading cause of death for Americans. (<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/injury/images/lc-charts/leading_causes_of_death_age_group_2016_1056w814h.gif" target="_blank">CDC, Fact Sheet"</a> and <a href="https://twloha.com/find-help/help-by-topic/suicide/">Suicide – TWLOHA</a>)</li><li>Suicide is the 2nd leading cause of death for Americans ages 10-34. (<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/injury/images/lc-charts/leading_causes_of_death_age_group_2016_1056w814h.gif" target="_blank">CDC, Fact Sheet"</a> and <a href="https://twloha.com/find-help/help-by-topic/suicide/">Suicide – TWLOHA</a>)</li><li>Males die by suicide four times as often as females, but there are three female attempts for every male attempt. (<a href="https://suicidology.org/facts-and-statistics/" target="_blank">Suicidology, Fact Sheet</a> and (<a href="https://twloha.com/find-help/help-by-topic/suicide/">Suicide – TWLOHA</a>)</li><li>In 2012, the US Department of Veteran Affairs (VA) released a data report for suicides among veterans and active military members, indicating that an average of 22 die by suicide every day. (<a href="https://www.1tribefoundation.org/programs/22kill/" target="_blank">22Kill</a> and <a href="https://mission22.com/faqs/" target="_blank">Mission22</a>)</li></ul></div><div><div><b>Resources</b></div><div><ul><li><a href="https://afsp.org/" target="_blank">American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP)</a></li><li><a href="https://www.who.int/health-topics/suicide#tab=tab_1" target="_blank">World Health Organization (WHO)</a> (mental health and suicide data)</li><li><a href="https://suicidology.org/">American Association of Suicidology (AAS)</a></li><li><a href="https://nami.org/home" target="_blank">National Alliance on Mental Health (NAMI)</a></li><li><a href="https://www.twloha.com" target="_blank">To Write Love On Her Arms (TWLOHA)</a>: "A nonprofit movement dedicated to presenting hope and finding help for people struggling with depression, addiction, self-injury, and suicide."</li><li><a href="https://jedfoundation.org/" target="_blank">The Jed Foundation</a>: "A nonprofit that protects emotional health and prevents suicide for our nation’s teens and young adults, giving them the skills and support they need to thrive today…and tomorrow."</li><li><a href="https://www.thetrevorproject.org/" target="_blank">The Trevor Project</a>: "We provide information & support to LGBTQ young people 24/7, all year round."</li><li><a href="https://www.1tribefoundation.org/programs/22kill/" target="_blank">22KILL</a> (One Tribe Foundation): "Restore the value of life by empowering veterans, first responders, and their families."</li><li><a href="https://mission22.com/" target="_blank">Mission 22</a>: "Our Veteran non-profit offers programs at no cost to all participants. We focus on three main pillars—Veterans, families, and community."</li><li><a href="https://talkawaythedark.afsp.org/" target="_blank">Talk Away the Dark</a>: Resources to learn the warning signs, know the risk factors, and have real, open conversations with those you care about.</li><li><a href="https://988lifeline.org/how-we-can-all-prevent-suicide/" target="_blank">988: We can all prevent suicide</a>: Know the risk factors, warning signs, help others in crisis, and change the conversation around suicide.</li></ul><b>Helplines</b><br /><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><a href="https://988lifeline.org/" target="_blank">988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline</a> (formerly known as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline) at 988 or text TALK to 741741. For those that are deaf and hard of hearing, use your preferred relay service or dial 711 then 988. Spanish is also available.</li><li><a href="https://www.crisistextline.org/" target="_blank">Crisis Text Line (24/7)</a>: text TALK or AYUDA to 741741 or chat online to connect to a trained crisis counselor for free, 24/7.</li><li><a href="https://nami.org/help" target="_blank">NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) Helpline</a> (M-F 10am-6pm ET): 800-950-NAMI (6264) or info@nami.org</li><li><a href="https://www.veteranscrisisline.net/" target="_blank">Veterans Crisis Line</a> (24/7): dial 988 (press 1), text 838255, chat online</li><li><a href="https://twloha.com/find-help/24-hour-helplines/" target="_blank">Additional 24-hour helplines</a> (including child abuse, domestic abuse, sexual abuse)</li></ul><div><b>If you, or someone you know, is in suicidal crisis or emotional distress, please call the <a href="https://988lifeline.org/" target="_blank">988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline</a> (formerly known as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline) at 988 or text TALK to 741741. For those that are deaf and hard of hearing, use your preferred relay service or dial 711 then 988.</b></div></div></div></div><div><b><br /></b></div></div></div><div class="blogger-post-footer">© 2010-present Jamie Valendy (Chronic Migraine Warrior).
Disclaimer: Nothing on this site constitutes medical or legal advice.</div>Chronic Migraine Warriorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01233477606042199183noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4314571900243142661.post-45796803808499940052023-06-06T08:00:00.001-07:002023-06-06T08:00:00.145-07:00Depression: What Does It Feel Like?<div><i>This is a post I wrote six months ago exploring depression. At the time I wrote this one, I posted <a href="https://www.chronicmigrainewarrior.com/2022/12/depression-update.html" target="_blank">Depression: An Update</a>.<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMbB1FBzISX98jaMmnEQMaX36aSrokjknI9tJ2cY2Gys5bX6GQ69GSEPnwb2o1uHPJJcrWNlyNEKwtb0JoW2EQyA77HKvHr2GakJKkgWYVVUF9xGKej0KvHXPxaHlgxGXwma5UqHwPLuMS13hx_G7UbPbXVdB1CFmopHPM0SueiY--eBNE9yzyCHlYDQ/s6240/micheile-henderson--YIlVDQ65rQ-unsplash.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4160" data-original-width="6240" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMbB1FBzISX98jaMmnEQMaX36aSrokjknI9tJ2cY2Gys5bX6GQ69GSEPnwb2o1uHPJJcrWNlyNEKwtb0JoW2EQyA77HKvHr2GakJKkgWYVVUF9xGKej0KvHXPxaHlgxGXwma5UqHwPLuMS13hx_G7UbPbXVdB1CFmopHPM0SueiY--eBNE9yzyCHlYDQ/s320/micheile-henderson--YIlVDQ65rQ-unsplash.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo by <a href="https://unsplash.com/it/@micheile?utm_source=unsplash&utm_medium=referral&utm_content=creditCopyText">micheile henderson</a> on <a href="https://unsplash.com/collections/3603030/for-blog/dfed95a7234d2d35f2e3cf03d10296f7?utm_source=unsplash&utm_medium=referral&utm_content=creditCopyText">Unsplash</a></td></tr></tbody></table></i></div><div>Depression is an insidious disease. Mental illness and pain are liars. I battle with multiple diseases, which has taught me that you can't always see the depth and intensity of pain another is going through.</div><br />The ways I've learned to cope with and survive depression, anxiety, pain further complicate things because one part of that is that I hide it. Not consciously, most of the time. But, I've become a master at hiding pain (of all kinds). It's so engrained in how I move through life, that it's mostly been through feedback from other people that I've really seen how "well" I do it. <br /><br />For example, my therapist said that it was difficult for her when we first started meeting because my demeanor and my words weren't aligned. I was sitting in front of her, completely put together, while my words were filled with pain and despair.<br /><br />Hearing that others typically don't see the chaos inside of me is bittersweet. I want to be seen and known. I think we all do. Yet, much of the pain I experience is invisible.<br /><br />In an effort to pull back the curtain, both on depression as a disease and on my personal experience with it, I explored the question: What does depression feel like?<div><br />It's a question I wish there was a simple answer to, but the answer is as complex as the disease and people that face it. I've experienced depression in more ways than I can even recall. Here are some descriptions that come to mind.</div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Apathy</li><li>Nothing matters... yet everything matters (depression + anxiety)</li><li>Emptiness</li><li>Anguish</li><li>Despair</li><li>Heavy darkness</li><li>Weighted blanket over everything</li><li>Trying to walk in quicksand</li><li>Drowning in the depths of the ocean</li><li>Carrying a boulder</li><li>Fatigue and lack of motivation</li><li>Breathing takes everything you have</li><li>Spiraling into the abyss</li><li>Gasping for breath, while an elephant is on your chest</li><li>Moving in slow motion</li><li>Thoughts out of my control</li><li>Stuck in a nightmare or twilight zone</li><li>Sleepwalking</li><li>Endless blackness / darkness</li><li>Tunnel</li><li>Spiral</li><li>Deep dark pit</li><li>Perpetual </li></ul><div>What does depression feel like for you?</div></div><br /><i>"That’s the thing about depression: A human being can survive almost anything, as long as she sees the end in sight. But depression is so insidious—and it compounds daily—making it impossible to ever see the end. That fog is like a cage without a key.” - Elizabeth Wurtzel</i><div><i><br /></i></div><div class="blogger-post-footer">© 2010-present Jamie Valendy (Chronic Migraine Warrior).
Disclaimer: Nothing on this site constitutes medical or legal advice.</div>Chronic Migraine Warriorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01233477606042199183noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4314571900243142661.post-71464983845627561272023-05-15T08:00:00.001-07:002023-05-15T08:00:00.141-07:00Welcome Back, Email SubscribersI've made some changes to some behind the scenes aspects of the Chronic Migraine Warrior blog. For instance, I set up a new email service. <div><br /></div><div>If you're reading this in email, welcome back! You should be all set. </div><div><br /></div><div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFqKVfIO450KTad3N2Gp4hC2B62pRCJuSeT0mGGoM_GfZEDvfNlFuXC-JJvxfYmwK8fs8F-AKPCyN2TDe4KS55qy8LjV1E0mCOI_1_fAdHJYGWQ13BFC_PdOSVauDA208oeS7sbQPTacFE1RV8w5QlVHdAed49iZKJsXg1gLKki5Nrq5SGTAD3ffsH1Q/s3032/nick-fewings-bTRsbY5RLr4-unsplash.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2021" data-original-width="3032" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFqKVfIO450KTad3N2Gp4hC2B62pRCJuSeT0mGGoM_GfZEDvfNlFuXC-JJvxfYmwK8fs8F-AKPCyN2TDe4KS55qy8LjV1E0mCOI_1_fAdHJYGWQ13BFC_PdOSVauDA208oeS7sbQPTacFE1RV8w5QlVHdAed49iZKJsXg1gLKki5Nrq5SGTAD3ffsH1Q/w320-h213/nick-fewings-bTRsbY5RLr4-unsplash.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo by <a href="https://unsplash.com/@jannerboy62?utm_source=unsplash&utm_medium=referral&utm_content=creditCopyText" target="_blank">Nick Fewings</a> on <a href="https://unsplash.com/" target="_blank">Unsplash</a></td></tr></tbody></table>Note: For existing subscribers, there might be a line at the top of your email to confirm that you'd like to continue receiving emails. </div><div><br /></div><div>Here are a few blog posts that you've missed receiving via email over the past months: <div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><a href="https://www.chronicmigrainewarrior.com/2022/08/pain-wraps-us-tightly-into-ourselves.html" target="_blank">Pain Wraps Us Tightly Into Ourselves</a></li><li><a href="https://www.chronicmigrainewarrior.com/2022/08/allowing-what-i-need-right-now.html" target="_blank">Allowing What I Need Right Now</a></li><li><a href="https://www.chronicmigrainewarrior.com/2022/12/depression-update.html" target="_blank">Depression: An Update</a></li></ul><div><br /></div><div>If you're reading this on the blog and would like to <a href="https://follow.it/chronic-migraine-warrior?leanpub" target="_blank">subscribe by email</a>, that feature is available once again. You can also follow me on social media (<a href="https://www.facebook.com/ChronicMigraineWarriorBlog/" target="_blank">Facebook</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/chronicmigrainewarriorblog/" target="_blank">Instagram</a>).</div><div><div><br /></div></div></div></div><div class="blogger-post-footer">© 2010-present Jamie Valendy (Chronic Migraine Warrior).
Disclaimer: Nothing on this site constitutes medical or legal advice.</div>Chronic Migraine Warriorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01233477606042199183noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4314571900243142661.post-65228744777510943352022-12-16T22:00:00.001-07:002022-12-16T22:00:00.193-07:00Depression: An UpdateDepression is hard. <div><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVi2zCuZzb502RCsrtcGdtLae9z0AhcazB1XFDRm37jslYrGoUE8IA_GLhZbaw7GtmdzL0PcRN4swNv-rCtxOsO-Bm8Rr8QAwqwRxPA-mLilGYfBMawzidr7jJYWxNvZmpWezbReDkAyH5H08DEhi6vGtd_eq2J4SR7yaOuUnqhscw-IWuuFsH6SHJcw/s5670/greg-rosenke-uYoj6pNNV2k-unsplash.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="5670" data-original-width="3780" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVi2zCuZzb502RCsrtcGdtLae9z0AhcazB1XFDRm37jslYrGoUE8IA_GLhZbaw7GtmdzL0PcRN4swNv-rCtxOsO-Bm8Rr8QAwqwRxPA-mLilGYfBMawzidr7jJYWxNvZmpWezbReDkAyH5H08DEhi6vGtd_eq2J4SR7yaOuUnqhscw-IWuuFsH6SHJcw/s320/greg-rosenke-uYoj6pNNV2k-unsplash.jpg" width="213" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo by <a href="https://unsplash.com/@greg_rosenke?utm_source=unsplash&utm_medium=referral&utm_content=creditCopyText">Greg Rosenke</a> on <a href="https://unsplash.com/?utm_source=unsplash&utm_medium=referral&utm_content=creditCopyText">Unsplash</a></td></tr></tbody></table><div>That's true. And, yet, a huge understatement.</div><div><br /></div><div>I can see ways that I've improved:</div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>I can more readily spot the signs of depression worsening.</li><li>I have been growing my toolbox with ways to help me in battle.</li><li>I find myself reaching outside of myself more than I used to.</li></ul><div>I'm trying to focus on those things, but the truth is that there's so much other stuff chattering in the background... that I'm right back where I've been time and time and time again. Like there's no way to not.</div></div><div><br /></div><div>Over the years, I've experienced depression to varying degrees. It's always there, though the depth, intensity, and disruption vary. Each episode is a unique and ever-changing combination of depression, anxiety, and panic attacks... making it a moving target to identify and manage. </div><div><br /></div><div>I've been in a depressive cycle for nearly 4 years. There have been moments of sheer beauty and joy, but the lows have been just as impressive as the highs. </div><div><br /></div><div>Depression does its best to push those positive moments out of my memory, while latching on to the painful ones. I'm doing my best to allow the space to grieve the losses and experience the joys, both with the intensity that shows up.</div><div><br /></div><div>I seem to have more recently turned a corner to experiencing the deep lows, but the highs feel dampened. This may be partly due to deep sadness and <a href="https://www.chronicmigrainewarrior.com/2022/07/grief.html" target="_blank">grief</a> stacking atop the depression. It's too heavy. </div><div><br /></div><div>I'm so tired and weary. The daily battles feel like a permanent fixture in my life.</div><div><br /></div><div>I'm not sure how to get through all of this... but, there is no other way but through. </div><div><br /></div><div>Update: I wrote the above some number of months ago. </div><div><br /></div><div>There have been ebbs and flows to my experience of depression. Sometimes, depression is in the background and things don't feel quite as heavy and dark. Other times, there's a sense of emptiness and it feels like there's a blanket over everything. It takes a lot of hard work and energy to try to allow and accept even the difficult moments. I'm trying.</div><div><br /></div><div><i>"I’ve managed to live with and through Depression before and can do it again. And that is a truth Depression cannot dispel." - <a href="https://twloha.com/blog/depression-is-a-liar/" target="_blank">Marie Shanley</a> (<a href="https://mxiety.com/" target="_blank">Mxiety</a>)</i></div><div><br /></div></div><div class="blogger-post-footer">© 2010-present Jamie Valendy (Chronic Migraine Warrior).
Disclaimer: Nothing on this site constitutes medical or legal advice.</div>Chronic Migraine Warriorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01233477606042199183noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4314571900243142661.post-58228523161837988912022-08-23T14:00:00.002-07:002023-04-25T19:28:53.184-07:00Allowing What I Need Right Now<div>I'm grateful for words that show up at the perfect moment and resonate.<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqaqxtxVu-WcWrXbJxKTe1w172fMU8N--tRAWFtVXOrm85srMB57KgrDat1uwkQeVjDFwfZDRnuoGu1Nc-XF1haW4TmLZlZ8-t8XaYlyPqwYzmgVkk9-CGFnR6zP0-LtXM7-aJzCuRJYI0nBj8WUfOvs9aV1ukwWXIuuCLvLAU4X7F_zl96Bn5pOWYHg/s6000/andreas-wagner-Xqj5wRU0l5E-unsplash.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="6000" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqaqxtxVu-WcWrXbJxKTe1w172fMU8N--tRAWFtVXOrm85srMB57KgrDat1uwkQeVjDFwfZDRnuoGu1Nc-XF1haW4TmLZlZ8-t8XaYlyPqwYzmgVkk9-CGFnR6zP0-LtXM7-aJzCuRJYI0nBj8WUfOvs9aV1ukwWXIuuCLvLAU4X7F_zl96Bn5pOWYHg/w320-h213/andreas-wagner-Xqj5wRU0l5E-unsplash.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo by <a href="https://unsplash.com/@waguluz_?utm_source=unsplash&utm_medium=referral&utm_content=creditCopyText">Andreas Wagner</a> on <a href="https://unsplash.com/collections/3603030/for-blog/dfed95a7234d2d35f2e3cf03d10296f7?utm_source=unsplash&utm_medium=referral&utm_content=creditCopyText">Unsplash</a></td></tr></tbody></table><br /></div><i></i><blockquote><i>"Allow yourself the things you need right now. Whether that's space, rest, support, or something else, know that you are not a burden for taking care of yourself."</i> <i>- To Write Love On Her Arms</i></blockquote><i></i><div>I'll admit that I don't always do the best at identifying or allowing myself what I need in the moment. It's something I've been intentionally working on... and it feels like life is giving me tons of opportunities to practice.</div><div><br /></div><div>I have read the above quote at different moments over the past few months. It remains something I need reminded of, even though my responses to it have varied. </div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>I have no idea what I need right now or how to make it through this pain, this grief, this moment. None of those things will bring relief or reprieve. </li><li>I am doing all the things I'm able to do for what I need right now, including, acknowledging that various pains (physical, mental, emotional) often team up with one another and have a propensity for telling lies. </li></ul></div><div>I'm fighting back with truths:</div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>This moment is hard, and I will make it through.</li><li>The pain and grief are real, and I'm anchored to the One that will see me through each wave of every storm.</li><li>I am doing what I can to take care of myself, and that is always enough.️</li></ul></div><div>I know that there's likely more I want to write and explore on the topic. I'm choosing to focus on getting through the current storm, jotting thoughts down as I'm able, and being ok with revisiting them when I'm better able to. </div><div><br /></div><div class="blogger-post-footer">© 2010-present Jamie Valendy (Chronic Migraine Warrior).
Disclaimer: Nothing on this site constitutes medical or legal advice.</div>Jamiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12251221896260997647noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4314571900243142661.post-755015407121141742022-08-10T12:00:00.001-07:002022-08-10T12:00:00.174-07:00Pain Wraps Us Tightly Into Ourselves<i>Pain wraps us tightly into ourselves.<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn9V-guX5hChXWINtL4Cka_AqZb--jO1DR-aFx8Q5htxy3HdpVF4mQkeU8H-rDz4bgj5uOJjO2vD9oDoqRjl73S8ZTubAQutXMS1gmJxsQEo5uPnmmrWkVDD3VVpR12QQt7FTHM5lqRyhOafAclzi3C2q_Bx0jgZMgPPmA_n_K0qvfziB1KUmgr7u9/s4240/erik-kroon-qedloYxBbN0-unsplash.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2832" data-original-width="4240" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn9V-guX5hChXWINtL4Cka_AqZb--jO1DR-aFx8Q5htxy3HdpVF4mQkeU8H-rDz4bgj5uOJjO2vD9oDoqRjl73S8ZTubAQutXMS1gmJxsQEo5uPnmmrWkVDD3VVpR12QQt7FTHM5lqRyhOafAclzi3C2q_Bx0jgZMgPPmA_n_K0qvfziB1KUmgr7u9/s320/erik-kroon-qedloYxBbN0-unsplash.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo by <a href="https://unsplash.com/@erikkroon?utm_source=unsplash&utm_medium=referral&utm_content=creditCopyText">Erik Kroon</a> on <a href="https://unsplash.com/?utm_source=unsplash&utm_medium=referral&utm_content=creditCopyText">Unsplash</a></td></tr></tbody></table><br /></i><div><i><br /></i><div>I wrote these words a couple years ago. They have proven to be so true. I have seen and felt it in me. I have seen and felt it in others.</div><div><br /></div><div>Physical pain. Mental pain. Emotional pain. Spiritual pain. Relational pain. All pain. </div><div><br /></div><div>When pain is acute and deep, focus tends to draw inward. Toward the hurt, pain, chaos within. </div></div><div><div><br /></div><div>It sometimes feels like there's no way out of the protective walls that shoot up when the brain thinks we are in danger. The truth is that those walls often close off the very people that are willing to help. </div><div><br /></div></div><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px;"><div><div style="text-align: left;"><i>"I started to build a home with all the walls I was putting up for myself, but when I was finished, I realized I had built a cage and didn’t make a key." - Lidia Longorio</i></div></div></blockquote><div><div><br /></div><div>I have worked for years to recognize and intentionally act in ways that counter the closing off that feels natural when pain hits hard. </div><div><br /></div><div>One way I do this is to reach out, when I feel myself closing off and turning inward. I do this through prayer and connecting with a friend. It doesn't always make an immediate notable difference for me, but I can usually notice that it positively impacts the person I reach out to... and it ultimately impacts me, too, even if it's delayed. </div><div><br /></div><div>My goal in reaching out is to connect. This sometimes involves sharing about my current struggles, but not always. Oftentimes, it's simply to let them know that I'm thinking of them. This is likely related to me feeling alone in that moment and wanting others to know that they're not. I find that true connection helps both individuals feel less alone. </div></div><div><br /></div><div><i>"Knowing that you're not alone really does make all the difference in the world." - Normani Hamilton</i></div><div><br /></div><div class="blogger-post-footer">© 2010-present Jamie Valendy (Chronic Migraine Warrior).
Disclaimer: Nothing on this site constitutes medical or legal advice.</div>Chronic Migraine Warriorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01233477606042199183noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4314571900243142661.post-33886835150373370552022-07-07T14:00:00.003-07:002022-07-07T14:44:25.875-07:00GriefGrief is a difficult part of my journey. It weaves its way through in so many different ways that I often don't even recognize or acknowledge its existence. I know that grieving the various and many losses in life is part of being human. And it's really hard. <br /><br />From grieving losses related to chronic illness to losses of loved ones, I'd like to write through to try to make sense or peace with some of it. I'm not sure where this path will take me, so I'll start right where I am now.<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguswBtJCFWJKq5GinJzULxIF5UwpD0M7kjIjX1RLEoBUsvT6Eky6ISImnVzxH_zjhNTUSptQTt-aC5mW4RcR_sd28l2KqPgKzoM7PqK6zvWAO0Hl-VrE0oUSp_nxG9sXJrfT_O9_7R0-krSD_MIUKkbt2Tq_HZEOMz5jjAU7n1Kfg02mFMVrR3aHQu/s5472/todd-turner-Af9cNES03LU-unsplash.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2800" data-original-width="5472" height="205" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguswBtJCFWJKq5GinJzULxIF5UwpD0M7kjIjX1RLEoBUsvT6Eky6ISImnVzxH_zjhNTUSptQTt-aC5mW4RcR_sd28l2KqPgKzoM7PqK6zvWAO0Hl-VrE0oUSp_nxG9sXJrfT_O9_7R0-krSD_MIUKkbt2Tq_HZEOMz5jjAU7n1Kfg02mFMVrR3aHQu/w400-h205/todd-turner-Af9cNES03LU-unsplash.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo by <a href="https://unsplash.com/@toddtphoto?utm_source=unsplash&utm_medium=referral&utm_content=creditCopyText">Todd Turner</a> on <a href="https://unsplash.com/s/photos/waves-of-grief?utm_source=unsplash&utm_medium=referral&utm_content=creditCopyText">Unsplash</a> </td></tr></tbody></table><div>Grief is so complex. It shows up in so many ways, at so many times, both expected and unexpected. <br /><br />My body seems to remember anniversaries of losses, even if I don't immediately recognize the timing.<br /> <br />My mind has been returning to / flooded with memories very intensely in recent weeks, and I didn't realize why. Eventually, I looked at the calendar and realized that there are several deep losses within a few weeks of each other from late June to early July. <br /><br />How long ago the original losses were doesn't seem to matter. Grief knows no time. It calls for experiencing and processing over and over and over. The waves sometimes seem to lessen in certain ways (like frequency or intensity), but they continue to come. <br /><br />In my experience, grief can hit in different ways: <br /><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Specific: the loss of a certain person or thing. </li><li>Multiple: the loss of multiple people or things.</li><li>General, over-arching, all-encompassing: a sense of all of one's losses. </li><li>Combination: multiple ways at one time.</li></ul><div>When multiple losses surface at the same time, the associated grief compounds. Instead of facing the grief of a single loss, which can be heavy and difficult enough, you're simultaneously facing unresolved grief of multiple or all losses. It can feel like drowning.<br /><br />There's no way to shortcut grief, which really sucks. It demands to be felt. And it's in our best interest to experience and work through it, when it shows up. It sounds so simple, but I've never experienced it to be such.<div> <br />As I face the grief of multiple losses, I'm doing my best to tread water, as the waves crash over me. I know that the storm will pass, or at least change. So, I do what I must to weather it and process what I can along the way.<br /><br /><i>“The reality is that you will grieve forever. You will not ‘get over’ the loss of a loved one; you will learn to live with it. You will heal and you will rebuild yourself around the loss you have suffered. You will be whole again but you will never be the same. Nor should you be the same nor would you want to.” <br />- Elizabeth Kübler-Ross</i><br /></div></div></div><div><i><br /></i></div><div class="blogger-post-footer">© 2010-present Jamie Valendy (Chronic Migraine Warrior).
Disclaimer: Nothing on this site constitutes medical or legal advice.</div>Jamiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12251221896260997647noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4314571900243142661.post-11420035470196152122022-01-02T16:00:00.006-07:002022-01-02T16:00:00.171-07:00A Year in Review, Kinda (2021)<div>I like things to be in order. I always have. Sometimes, it gets me locked into place and prevents me from starting or reaching out or sharing at all. It's more than ok to start from where you are... from where I am. That's where we are: now, this moment. <br /><br />This year has included many health-related challenges, including a hospitalization, multiple infections,<br /> major surgery, new symptoms, testing, imaging, new diagnoses. Oh my!</div><div><br /></div><div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiulu9aa5G9t6VfEFQ2UTf-jk-uXEgNoLsLlpsNVOnqweX9gxFV3NF8yj13W4pjMvhJdgwqdM0Go3NRtZrGYHOQABRizinj-sYtx_MphkTr5ltbD8iHafKcjOaxUbtNk0ZnEu-MIODcMuuO62Y79XuuwWtF0NbGbTbgy-t-kSvxzfocyuLyw0-cbzrPvQ=s7282" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="7282" data-original-width="4620" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiulu9aa5G9t6VfEFQ2UTf-jk-uXEgNoLsLlpsNVOnqweX9gxFV3NF8yj13W4pjMvhJdgwqdM0Go3NRtZrGYHOQABRizinj-sYtx_MphkTr5ltbD8iHafKcjOaxUbtNk0ZnEu-MIODcMuuO62Y79XuuwWtF0NbGbTbgy-t-kSvxzfocyuLyw0-cbzrPvQ=w203-h320" width="203" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo by <a href="https://unsplash.com/@v2osk?utm_source=unsplash&utm_medium=referral&utm_content=creditCopyText">v2osk</a> on <a href="https://unsplash.com/collections/3603030/for-blog/dfed95a7234d2d35f2e3cf03d10296f7?utm_source=unsplash&utm_medium=referral&utm_content=creditCopyText">Unsplash</a></td></tr></tbody></table>I've faced a lot, made it through a lot, and learned a lot. </div><div><br /></div><div>I'm still going through a lot, processing through a lot, and focusing on healing a lot. </div><div><br /></div><div>A lot.</div><div><br /></div><div>It's been nonstop.</div><div><br /></div><div>Generally, my primary way of processing is through writing. It's how I move through life's ups and downs... especially the latter.</div><div><br />This year, though, my writing has been more focused on documenting what's going on, defining a bunch of new to me terms, and doing my best to wrap my mind around it all. The processing part has been tricky, as I've often been merely trying to get through one moment to the next. </div><div><br /></div>I want to write.<br />I want to process. <br />I want to share.<br /><div style="text-align: left;">I need to survive.</div><div><br /></div><div>There are times that the physical side of recovery consumes all of my energy. That's compounded by trying to strike a balance of allowing the emotional aspects to ebb and flow, and not getting completely swept away by the waves of emotion. Physical pain is rarely experienced without an emotional impact, at least for me.</div><div><br /></div><div>So, I write thoughts down. What that looks like varies: snippets of thoughts or ideas, a list of questions, prayers, words or songs that resonate with me, unedited raw emotion, a moment when dots suddenly connect... even a complete blog post.</div><div><br /></div><div>Then, weeks and months (and, sometimes, years) pass by before I finish or share / post what I started writing in the midst of it all. <br /><br />I know that it's ok. And, it can feel overwhelming.<br /><br />I have to start somewhere. Somewhere is here. Now.</div><div><br /></div><div>I'm struggling. On multiple fronts. </div><div><br /></div><div>There are times that it feels like there's no time, space, or energy to slow down to process something before another thing drops. </div><div><br /></div><div>I recognize that I'm in a season of needing to focus on my health and hurts. I know that it's important. Crucial, even. I know that it's what I need to do. And, it's really hard. </div><div><br /></div><div>I'm not comfortable with needing to focus on my stuff so intently, for so long. It's exhausting. </div><div><br /></div><div>I'm well-versed in managing and seeking support for the chronic illnesses I've had for years. Asking for and accepting help have been things I've gotten much better at over the years (<a href="https://www.chronicmigrainewarrior.com/2011/04/help-four-letter-word.html">Help: A Four-Letter Word</a>). The trouble is, there's been so much new health stuff this year, and I don't yet know what help or support I need to ask for. </div><div><br /></div><div>It's frustrating to so frequently have something new, worse, and/or more going on with my health. I feel like I don't have much left to give to others... and, that... that is so hard.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><blockquote>I acknowledge that feeling it doesn't make it true. It's a self-judgment / critique. I truly believe that a poll of my people would show that I'm giving others love, support, care in multiple ways and that I am and have always been enough.</blockquote></div><div>I'm also able to recognize that I've grown in how I handle and face uncertainty, change, loss, complexity. I'm still learning and growing, for sure. </div><div><br /></div><div>I don't know how things will look here on my blog moving forward. I plan to continue to use this space as a place to process and share. I think that might look like a combination of words I wrote in the moment and where I'm at in the process now. </div><div><br /></div><div>I'm looking forward to writing and sharing more of my journey. </div><div><br /></div><div><i>"No matter how big or small, allow yourself the chance to reflect on all of the things you've championed in the past year. You are allowed to feel proud of yourself." - Olimatta Taal</i></div><div><br /></div><div class="blogger-post-footer">© 2010-present Jamie Valendy (Chronic Migraine Warrior).
Disclaimer: Nothing on this site constitutes medical or legal advice.</div>Chronic Migraine Warriorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01233477606042199183noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4314571900243142661.post-67808292381482068492021-10-22T19:40:00.001-07:002021-10-22T19:40:00.191-07:0013 Years Later, Now<i>I recently posted <a href="https://www.chronicmigrainewarrior.com/2021/10/reflecting-12-years-post-accident-2020.html">Reflecting 12 Years Post Accident</a>, which I wrote in 2020. Please feel free to click over and give it a read. While I don't post about it every year, I felt the need to, again, this year (2021).</i><br /><br />Mixed emotions. That's how I feel, as the 13th anniversary of my car accident approaches. Each year hits a bit differently. It doesn't always affect me. I took the power of that date back several years ago. I know that the date isn't inherently bad... yet, I feel the weight of it a bit more this year.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1uP6hl4wbiSnC3AVJ-KoiMJ7OUm9fAU6uISM4M2YZzh99jaevKvqDCwJAaKI19Ut7bQ5IFt9gQuCR7IXNt8ppaiShMxRLvK5YJ5e9HlUvlxIR9nrfnuc5XYBiUzwkSx_F6tJTrdjXFrho/s2048/Painted+eggs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1uP6hl4wbiSnC3AVJ-KoiMJ7OUm9fAU6uISM4M2YZzh99jaevKvqDCwJAaKI19Ut7bQ5IFt9gQuCR7IXNt8ppaiShMxRLvK5YJ5e9HlUvlxIR9nrfnuc5XYBiUzwkSx_F6tJTrdjXFrho/w320-h213/Painted+eggs.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo by <a href="https://unsplash.com/@tengyart?utm_source=unsplash&utm_medium=referral&utm_content=creditCopyText">Tengyart</a> on <a href="https://unsplash.com/collections/3603030/for-blog/dfed95a7234d2d35f2e3cf03d10296f7?utm_source=unsplash&utm_medium=referral&utm_content=creditCopyText">Unsplash</a></td></tr></tbody></table><br />This year, it makes sense why it's on my mind more.<br /><br />On September 30, I woke with what I labeled a "sleeping injury." I had pain and limited range of motion in my right shoulder and neck. I joked about how ridiculous our bodies are, that I could hurt myself while in an unconscious state. <br /><br />I figured it was simply a matter of sleeping weirdly and that it would dissipate in a few days.<br /><br />It didn't.<br /><br />The tightness, pain, limited range of motion worsened each day. I've tried: heat, ice, muscle relaxers, nsaids, theracane, lidocaine patch, gentle massaging and stretching.<br /><br />My sleep and daily functioning are both being disrupted and limited. I want to write, but I'm having a difficult time physically doing so.<br /><br />There's an emotional component to this pain, as well, as it's reminiscent of past trauma / pain.<br /><br />I know that our minds are prone to distort or misremember things, including pain experiences. This is often compounded by time. Understanding all of that, there's still a familiarity with the pain and limited range of motion I've been experiencing.<br /><br />I injured my neck and right shoulder in a 2008 car accident. While I don't fully remember a chunk of time after the accident, I remember pieces. One of those pieces is that there was a lot of pain and I was physically very limited in using my right arm and neck.<br /><br />Two years after the car accident, I had a neurostimulator implanted (2010). I had a very long and difficult recovery, including severely limited range of motion in my neck.<br /><br />I've been doing a good job recognizing the connection to these past traumas / events that my mind and body are making, and reminding myself that they are separate. The car accident isn't happening right now. I am safe. <br /><br />In light of current struggles, I'm being reminded:<br /><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Healing isn't linear - past grief, trauma, loss, challenges keep showing up. Each time they do, I do my best to feel it and process through. </li><li>I'm safe - it can be especially difficult to remember this, when there's such similarity in how I feel (physically and/or emotionally). </li><li>I'll get through this, as I have previous challenges.</li></ul><div><i>Update:</i> I was seen by primary care on 10/5. I woke on the 13th anniversary day (10/10) with the first notable improvement in symptoms since they started. I'm so grateful for that. I have imaging and doctor appointments on the schedule to help determine the path forward.</div><div><br /></div><div class="blogger-post-footer">© 2010-present Jamie Valendy (Chronic Migraine Warrior).
Disclaimer: Nothing on this site constitutes medical or legal advice.</div>Chronic Migraine Warriorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01233477606042199183noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4314571900243142661.post-30453968771816536602021-10-10T22:50:00.007-07:002021-10-10T22:52:25.453-07:00Reflecting 12 Years Post Accident (2020)<div><i>I wrote this post last fall (October 2020), as the anniversary of the car accident approached. </i></div><div><br /></div><div>Over the years, the meaning and emotion of the event have ebbed and flowed in a way that perfectly illustrates the grief process. I've written about this multiple times before: </div><div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><a href="http://www.chronicmigrainewarrior.com/2010/08/battle-begins.html">The Battle Begins</a></li><li><a href="http://www.chronicmigrainewarrior.com/2011/10/3-year-anniversary-of-car-accident.html">3-Year Anniversary of Car Accident</a></li><li><a href="http://www.chronicmigrainewarrior.com/2013/11/4-year-anniversary-of-car-accident.html">4-Year Anniversary of Car Accident</a></li></ul></div></div><div>When I moved to Arizona in 2017, I started seeing a headache specialist here. It so happened that the date of that initial appointment was the same as the accident. I consciously chose to take back that date; the move and new provider representing a clean slate of sorts. </div><div><br /></div><div>This year has been filled with so much loss, on both the individual and collective levels. Perhaps it's in light of this that I find myself more aware, as the anniversary of the accident approaches.</div><div><br /></div><div>As 12 years post accident approaches, I find myself reflective. <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOrPTrTBR_f_kOps5VgO68jKYVYYdlXA-B-tPj0kv7Tqkp6kfEtdoe1npvQsyyubRkNsfZ1E86QseyT2mMD9xpWNRGP9AT4qs5Sm8Ux94WPbQdG_I_NDTguOy27cg3AjSg8EBzpoSqezRL/s2048/Lotus+Light.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1367" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOrPTrTBR_f_kOps5VgO68jKYVYYdlXA-B-tPj0kv7Tqkp6kfEtdoe1npvQsyyubRkNsfZ1E86QseyT2mMD9xpWNRGP9AT4qs5Sm8Ux94WPbQdG_I_NDTguOy27cg3AjSg8EBzpoSqezRL/s320/Lotus+Light.jpg" width="214" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo by <a href="https://unsplash.com/@faramarzhashemi?utm_source=unsplash&utm_medium=referral&utm_content=creditCopyText">Faramarz Hashemi</a> on <a href="https://unsplash.com/s/photos/lotus?utm_source=unsplash&utm_medium=referral&utm_content=creditCopyText">Unsplash</a></td></tr></tbody></table></div><div><br /></div><div>Following my accident, I fought hard to get back the pre-accident Jamie. I finally reached a level of acceptance in living with this disease, and fought hard for the Jamie I am today. I'm still a work in progress, no doubt. But, in this moment, I recognize that I've come a long way.</div><div><br /></div><div>I have to be very mindful about how I think about this. It can be all too easy to spin down a path of what ifs. The truth is, the person I was when the accident happened is frozen in time. She very well might've had a different journey, but the person I missed for so long (and sometimes still do) would be whoever she grew to be over the years. And, that, is unknowable. It will forever be an unknown. So, I must remind my mind that the grass may not have been greener. </div><div><br /></div><div>I'm grateful to have some people close to me that know me and love me as I am, not who they wish I was. I want to see me through their eyes, to believe in myself the way they believe in me... with less self-critical judgment. I'm working on it.</div><div><br /></div><div>Today, I recognize that living with chronic pain is hard, that each year that passes may affect me differently, that grief is a process with ebbs and flows... and... that I can do more than I think I can, that I can engage with myself with compassion and love, that I can give myself space to experience the grief process in all the ways it shows up. </div><div><br /></div><div>(As I'm posting this a year after writing it, I'll share about this year's anniversary in a separate post) </div><div><br /></div><div><i>"Loving ourselves through the process of owning our story is the bravest thing we'll ever do." - Brene Brown</i></div><div><br /></div><div class="blogger-post-footer">© 2010-present Jamie Valendy (Chronic Migraine Warrior).
Disclaimer: Nothing on this site constitutes medical or legal advice.</div>Chronic Migraine Warriorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01233477606042199183noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4314571900243142661.post-40639150652025790742021-01-18T17:00:00.002-07:002021-01-18T17:00:08.947-07:00In Loving Memory of Jordan Conkle<div>*Sensitive Topic / Trigger Warning: death, suicide</div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7uQsNhJ9g7KcerzdPcgp-r3u5oB-p5pJQF1lFGPjFNhB4w9WG8ezoXzU2mcJDNTtG5BmIyF95kh2L54Y-msVmim6mTaiNTusKwki8Bo8254T3VT-BcvhJfT3c6pKsM1idsjwE_ttCMZqj/s2048/Jordan+Conkle.JPG" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7uQsNhJ9g7KcerzdPcgp-r3u5oB-p5pJQF1lFGPjFNhB4w9WG8ezoXzU2mcJDNTtG5BmIyF95kh2L54Y-msVmim6mTaiNTusKwki8Bo8254T3VT-BcvhJfT3c6pKsM1idsjwE_ttCMZqj/s320/Jordan+Conkle.JPG" /></a></div>My cousin, Jordan Conkle, died from depression by suicide on November 3rd. <br /></div><div><br /></div><div>Loss and grief are part of the human experience, happening in a multitude of different ways throughout our lives. It's never easy. Processing tragic, devastating losses is really hard. I want to share some things that I’ve written, as I've tried to wrap my mind around this loss. It may be a bit bumpy, but grieving is rarely smooth sailing. </div><div><br /></div><div><b>In the Moment</b></div><div>Today started like any other. When I checked my phone, however, I had a missed call and voicemail, overnight. I listened to it and reached out via message to find out more. It was about Jordan, but that's all I knew. I didn't feel up to a phone call, but my anxiety nagged at me, so I texted my sister in law to see if she knew what was going on and if Jordan was alright. She immediately called me. Ok, so it's something that takes explanation. My mind didn't immediately jump to the worst (which is actually an improvement for me). </div><div><br /></div><div>Then, she said the words. The words that made everything spin and stop at the same time. </div><div><br /></div><div>Jordan ended his life last night.</div><div>What?</div><div>She repeated it.</div><div>I started to collapse down and lose it. Jeremy caught me and helped me safely down to the ground. </div><div>I think I whispered, "Jordan's gone," in disbelief.</div><div><br /></div><div>There is no good way to find this type of thing out. That said, I'm grateful for the family member that reached out during the night and for my sister in law. She was direct with telling me what happened, and was a soft and safe place for me to experience the initial shock and wave of emotions. I'll always be thankful for her love and care in such a heartbreaking moment.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Thoughts Day-of</b></div><div>Today, I found out that my cousin ended his life last night. I don't know how to wrap my mind around this.</div><div><br /></div><div>Losing someone is hard. The circumstances around the loss, I find, can magnify different parts of the grieving process. You still must travel through the stages, in whatever order they present and re-present, but some come up more or are more pronounced.</div><div><br /></div><div>This year, I've lost two people, both completely unexpectedly. I knew losing people would happen. It's part of being human. I wasn't prepared for the losses to strike so soon to people in their 30s, like I am. It's so hard to process, on multiple levels.</div><div><br /></div><div>I don't want to sit in it, but I've been in the depths of depression. I know how bad that place is, and I'm so grateful that I've gotten out. I know others that have been in that place, too. We live with deep depression. There's a knowing that only people that have experienced that type of depth can have, even though everyone's experience is unique. I try to support those I can, in the ways that I can. They ultimately have to get out of the pit, but I can sit with them and shine a light for them when they're surrounded by darkness. </div><div><br /></div><div>I woke today, wishing it had only been a bad dream. It isn't, and that is crushing.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Memorial Service</b></div><div>The memorial service for Jordan was held in-person in Texas, followed by a graveside service. They streamed the memorial service on the church's social media. My sister and I were able to FaceTime and watch together. </div><div><br /></div><div>I attended a virtual memorial service earlier this year, but this one felt different. We weren't in Zoom rooms watching the service together. It felt like everyone was gathered together, and we were watching from afar. There was a disconnect. </div><div><br /></div><div>During the service, I learned that Jordan's favorite worship song was Here I Am to Worship. Jordan was someone who lived and loved big, and he's deeply missed by many.</div><div><br /></div><div>I'm grateful for conversations with loved ones, both those also grieving the loss and those supporting me in my grief. I'm grateful for my cousins, who reached out and connected. I'm grateful that my sister and I were able to watch the service and be with one another in the ways we were able. I know that there will be waves of processing and grieving, much of which is done alone. I'm so grateful to have people that love and care surrounding me, who will support me however they can.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>The Following Months</b></div><div>The holidays were filled with a lot of different emotions, for a lot of different reasons. In light of a loss in the family, my mind fluttered through memories, specifically those of growing up so close with my cousins. </div><div><br /></div><div>On Thanksgiving evening, I began to miss more... our big family Thanksgiving get togethers. Kristin and Jordan would get there later in the day and we'd play games. </div><div><br /></div><div>As Christmas approached, I felt the missing grow. Missing out being with family and friends, especially in light of a pandemic and unexpected family loss. I had dream(s) that included PaPa and Jordan, two family losses in as many years. I knew in the dreams that they're no longer with us, but they were special all the same. The one that Jordan was in: I think we were gathered as a family trying to watch his funeral service or something. Jordan came to me. He was younger. And we hugged, the way he did. </div><div><br /></div><div>I continue to give myself space to process. I wrote, "Jordan, it's Christmas Eve. We used to spend every one of them together (as we grew older, it was the weekend before Christmas). We would be eating, laughing, opening gifts, sneaking off to play with our gifts as the adults talk."</div><div><br /></div><div>It's interesting the things we remember. I have tons of memories with Jordan, but many of them are simple moments. The silly grin on his face, his facial expressions, the way he hugged and laughed and smiled. </div><div><br /></div><div>As I've been processing, it's clear that we don't always remember the details of a memory or moment. That's ok. We can remember and hold onto how we felt in that person's company or presence. Love, laughter, comfort, calm, joy. All of these are so precious. </div><div><br /></div><div><b>Letter to Jordan</b></div><div>Jordan,</div><div>How can you not be here anymore? It's so hard to make sense of this world not having you in it. I know that we haven't kept in touch. But, you always have a place in my heart. I cherish the memories of all of us throughout the years. Watching Milan, playing games, playing pool, dressing you up, going to car shows, monthly family birthday get togethers, Thanksgiving at my parents' house, Christmas at your parents' house... I'm grateful that we were able to have that time together. </div><div><br /></div><div>We last saw each other in November 2019 at Grandma's 80th birthday party. When you were leaving, you stopped and chatted with me, giving me all of your attention. You told me that you read my posts and you asked me to tell you more about my advocacy work. We talked about Headache on the Hill and me speaking at RetreatMigraine and Miles for Migraine events. You shared that you wished I wasn't in so much pain, but that you're so proud of who I am and the work that I do. Then, you gave me a hug. Your hugs were so healing, a safe and loving embrace. I am beyond grateful for those moments and that memory with you. I felt seen. Beyond the childhood and familial connection, but rather one adult to another. That connection we had, I will always remember and cherish.</div><div><br /></div><div>Jordan, I'm so sorry that you were in a place of such despair that you didn't see a way out. I won't get wrapped up in how I imagine you feeling or even what mental health challenges you might've been facing, as it's all conjecture, and truthfully doesn't matter... it won't bring you back.</div><div>I love you so much, cousin. </div><div><br /></div><div><b>Final Thoughts, For Now</b></div><div>I am working so hard to process the grief. To acknowledge and express the things I wish were different, without carrying the weight of regret. I will continue to process through the hurt places and grieving potential future outcomes. Learning lessons along the way that I can use to help shape how I move forward. Processing through the grief until what remains is love, cherished memories, and lessons to move forward.</div><div><br /></div><b>Links:</b><br /><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><b>Obituary:</b> <a href="https://www.lucasfuneralhomes.com/obituaries/Jordan-Conkle/">Jordan Lee Conkle Obituary - Visitation & Funeral Information (lucasfuneralhomes.com)</a></li><li><b>Memorial Service Video: </b><a href="https://fb.watch/34RAxG6ieW/">https://fb.watch/34RAxG6ieW/</a></li></ul><div><div><b>About Suicide</b></div><div><ul><li>Globally, there is one suicide about every 40 seconds. (<a href="https://www.who.int/teams/mental-health-and-substance-use/suicide-data" target="_blank">WHO, Suicide Prevention Fact Sheet</a>)</li><li>In the U.S., there is a suicide every 13.7 minutes. (<a href="https://suicidology.org/facts-and-statistics/" target="_blank">Suicidology, Fact Sheet</a>)</li><li>Suicide is the 10th leading cause of death for Americans. (<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/injury/images/lc-charts/leading_causes_of_death_age_group_2016_1056w814h.gif" target="_blank">CDC, Fact Sheet"</a> (<a href="https://twloha.com/find-help/help-by-topic/suicide/">Suicide – TWLOHA</a>))</li><li>Suicide is the 2nd leading cause of death for Americans ages 10-34. (<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/injury/images/lc-charts/leading_causes_of_death_age_group_2016_1056w814h.gif" target="_blank">CDC, Fact Sheet"</a> (<a href="https://twloha.com/find-help/help-by-topic/suicide/">Suicide – TWLOHA</a>))</li><li>Males die by suicide four times as often as females, but there are three female attempts for every male attempt. (<a href="https://suicidology.org/facts-and-statistics/" target="_blank">Suicidology, Fact Sheet</a>)</li></ul></div></div><div><div><b>Resources</b></div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><a href="https://afsp.org/" target="_blank">American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP)</a></li><li><a href="https://www.who.int/teams/mental-health-and-substance-use/suicide-data" target="_blank">World Health Organization</a> (mental health and suicide data)</li><li><a href="https://suicidology.org/" target="_blank">American Association of Suicidology</a> </li><li><a href="https://www.22kill.com/" target="_blank">22KILL</a></li><li><a href="https://twloha.com/" target="_blank">To Write Love on Her Arms</a></li><li>Helplines: </li><ul><li><a href="https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/" target="_blank">National Suicide Prevention Hotline (24/7/365)</a>: 1-800-273-TALK (8255) </li><li><a href="https://www.crisistextline.org/" target="_blank">Crisis Text Line (24/7)</a>: text TALK to 741741 to connect to a crisis counselor</li><li><a href="https://nami.org/help" target="_blank">NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) Helpline</a> (M-F 10am-6pm ET): 800-950-NAMI (6264) or info@nami.org</li><li><a href="https://www.veteranscrisisline.net/" target="_blank">Veterans Crisis Line</a> (24/7): 1-800-273-8255 (press 1), text 838255, chat online</li><li><a href="https://twloha.com/find-help/24-hour-helplines/" target="_blank">Additional 24-hour helplines</a> (including child abuse, domestic abuse, sexual abuse)</li></ul></ul></div><div><div><i><br /></i></div><div><i>"No one ever told me that grief felt so like fear" </i>- C.S. Lewis, A Grief Observed</div></div><div><br /></div></div><div class="blogger-post-footer">© 2010-present Jamie Valendy (Chronic Migraine Warrior).
Disclaimer: Nothing on this site constitutes medical or legal advice.</div>Chronic Migraine Warriorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01233477606042199183noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4314571900243142661.post-83327407939551833192020-07-17T17:00:00.002-07:002020-07-18T16:01:00.622-07:00In Loving Memory of Jenn TingwaldMy dear friend, Jenn Tingwald, passed away unexpectedly on July 2nd.<div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEik4dz0c-Rshoh43Zk3NjOkvkZxtCD8wVyXxggAomok-6p_JtEEjvTkkc079fbnnFbrT-KiZj8Tcg-HFyO2YVAYXfq4XkBFj7hgEcDbPygeRLbQ4A7A33Qzt2un5ERA_uB5C6oF9xEtOQK1/s2048/Jenn+Tingwald.JPG" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEik4dz0c-Rshoh43Zk3NjOkvkZxtCD8wVyXxggAomok-6p_JtEEjvTkkc079fbnnFbrT-KiZj8Tcg-HFyO2YVAYXfq4XkBFj7hgEcDbPygeRLbQ4A7A33Qzt2un5ERA_uB5C6oF9xEtOQK1/s320/Jenn+Tingwald.JPG" /></a></div>I’ve been experiencing the full spectrum of grief. I have tried turning to writing, as it’s always been how I process my emotions and experiences. As I’ve found, though, words are often insufficient to express the fullness of universal human experiences… including, grief. This may be a long, bumpy post; but, I want to share some things I’ve written since I heard the news of Jenn’s passing. </div><div><br /></div><div><b>Words in the Moment </b></div><div>Today, I found out that Jenn Tingwald passed away last night. I don’t know how those words together can be true. I can’t wrap my mind around it. I know that she was in and out of the hospital a lot over the past few months, but how is she gone? When I read of her passing, my heart broke and my body collapsed. We messaged earlier this week. She wasn’t well, but she was a warrior… like she always was. </div><div><br /></div><div>How do I even find the words to describe what I’m feeling? </div><div>I’ve lost people in my life, from drifting away to death. </div><div>This loss is different than others. </div><div>Of course, it hurt badly when my grandparents passed, but they were ill for years beforehand. There was much grieving, sometimes for years, as there were a series of losses before the final one. </div><div>This was different. </div><div>This was completely unexpected. </div><div>Jenn had a lot of health challenges, but she always made it through… until she didn’t. </div><div><br /></div><div>I know that grief is a process. I know that the waves will continue to come. Waves of disbelief, sorrow, overwhelm. The waves will vary in size and frequency, but they will continue. </div><div><br /></div><div>Today, it’s waves of disbelief and overwhelm. I can’t grasp it, and then it swallows me. It’s such a difficult part of being human. All day, I’ve sobbed and keep saying, “I don’t understand.” </div><div><br /></div><div>I know that a lot of things I do will remind me of her, as we shared so many ups and downs together. Living with chronic pain (struggles, successes, treatments, disability, etc), Mayo Clinic, advocacy work (including, Headache on the Hill and Miles for Migraine). Right now, that seems overwhelming. I'm reminding myself that each of these is an opportunity to respond with gratitude for our friendship and move forward with courage and perseverance, knowing she's with me in spirit.</div><div><br /></div><div>Every ounce of me knows that she’s finally out of pain and with our Lord. I know that I’ll carry her with me, as will the many others whose lives she touched during her time on earth. I’m grateful for all of that, truly. </div><div><br /></div><div><b>Letter to Jenn</b></div><div>My dear friend, </div><div>It’s been a week since you passed. I’m still trying to wrap my mind around you not being here. My heart aches and tears continue to stream down my face as waves of sorrow and overwhelm wash over me. I’ve been thinking a lot about you, and about our interactions. </div><div><br /></div><div>I remember the first time I met you. We were at the final American Headache and Migraine Association conference in November 2017. We sat next to each other all morning, but neither of us spoke to one another because we were both managing a migraine attack and medication side effects. As we broke for lunch at the end of the conference, we started talking (my mind doesn’t remember clearly if we just started talking or if Dr. Starling introduced us). Either way, we learned each other’s names and chatted a little. Then, we connected through social media, and grew our friendship. I’m so grateful that we didn’t allow the opportunity to meet pass us by. </div><div><br /></div><div>You were the first local friend I made, after Jeremy and I moved to Phoenix. I didn’t know how I’d make local friends, given the limitations of this disease; but God crossed our paths and we became close friends quickly. </div><div><br /></div><div>Over the past couple years, we were open books with one another, allowing for a depthful connection that transcended the number of days we knew each other… 956 days. I cherish the conversations we shared about faith, advocacy, and the challenges and successes of living with chronic illness. </div><div><br /></div><div>You loved fiercely. I think that’s something we have in common. Your love for your family was unquestionable and second only to your love for God. I always enjoyed hearing stories and seeing pictures of your daughter. She is so precious, and I’m grateful that I was able to meet her in-person this March. </div><div><br /></div><div>Among other things, I will never forget your generosity and kindness. You always did your best to support and encourage me, despite the challenges you faced. Thank you for that. </div><div><br /></div><div>You made a difference in so many people's lives. Amongst the darkness of losing you, your light continues to shine. It's there in the lives you touched. It's undoubtedly you, and it's beautiful. </div><div><br /></div><div>It’s been two weeks since you passed. How can that be? My experience of time is warped. I want to tell you that it was such an honor being friends with you. Thank you for always encouraging me to simply be myself and reminding me to speak from my heart. What a beautiful gift. </div><div>Goodbye, for now, my friend. </div><div><br /></div><div><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFkzgPnHuekLEQyQp7PuCfwX-vfV56yTfZRAmqZ3XRhzUADXFwf573Nay4AgO90jBII18vR7HGrpZJy2BXQQ9sQB_bEi-mSg294KwA84TC22kHoehsAFXbxIapS5wVz1y5HfVIaN3d_QPQ/s2048/Jenn+Tingwald+Advocacy.JPG" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFkzgPnHuekLEQyQp7PuCfwX-vfV56yTfZRAmqZ3XRhzUADXFwf573Nay4AgO90jBII18vR7HGrpZJy2BXQQ9sQB_bEi-mSg294KwA84TC22kHoehsAFXbxIapS5wVz1y5HfVIaN3d_QPQ/s320/Jenn+Tingwald+Advocacy.JPG" /></a></div>Tributes</b><br />I was asked to share an overview of Jenn's headache disorders advocacy:</div><div><blockquote>Jenn Tingwald was a fierce advocate for the headache disorders community. She participated in Headache on the Hill multiple years, spoke at two Phoenix Miles for Migraine events, and was featured in a PBS Newshour special that aired in February. Jenn openly shared about her and her daughter’s experiences living with headache disorders, and highlighted the importance of finding your voice and reclaiming your purpose through advocacy.</blockquote></div><div>Jenn’s husband, Aaron, generously provided an opportunity to share a short video with a story about Jenn. I have many, but the one that was on my heart perfectly displays the kind, generous spirit of my dear friend: </div><div></div><blockquote><div>Jenn and I met at a migraine advocacy event in fall 2017 and quickly became friends and fellow headache disorders advocates. Last year (2019), Jenn and I were going to room together for Headache on the Hill. A couple days before the training, she canceled her trip. She desperately wanted to go, but she needed to focus on her health. When a horrible migraine attack knocked me down after my travel day, she tried to coordinate getting heat pads and Epsom salt delivered to me. Despite the challenges she faced, she messaged me throughout my travels and the Headache on the Hill event. She told me she’d be with me in spirit, and I could feel her presence every step of the way. </div></blockquote><blockquote><div>Jenn was one of the strongest, most kind-hearted people I’ve ever known. She was a fierce advocate, especially for her daughter. And, she was a faithful prayer warrior. She always encouraged me to be myself and speak from my heart, especially when she knew I was anxious. I know she’ll continue to be with me in spirit, and I’ll hear her voice reminding me, “You’re going to do amazing!” </div><div></div></blockquote><div>For anyone interested: </div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><b>Jennifer Tingwald Memorial Celebration Video: </b><a href="https://youtu.be/sapHU5bTyHQ">https://youtu.be/sapHU5bTyHQ</a> </li><li><b>Celebrating the Life of Jenn Tingwald Facebook Group: </b><a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/2734079326696053">https://www.facebook.com/groups/2734079326696053</a></li><li><b>Go Fund Me Page</b> (the page beautifully expresses what an amazing person Jenn was, touching the lives of so many): <a href="https://www.gofundme.com/f/jennifer-cohn-tingwald-memorial">https://www.gofundme.com/f/jennifer-cohn-tingwald-memorial</a></li><li><b>National Headache Foundation (Jenn’s story):</b> <a href="https://headaches.org/2018/06/29/jennifer-tingwald/">https://headaches.org/2018/06/29/jennifer-tingwald/</a></li><li><b>PBS Newshour</b> <b>(featuring Jenn):</b> <a href="https://www.pbs.org/newshour/show/15-percent-of-americans-have-migraine-disease-why-arent-there-better-treatment-options">https://www.pbs.org/newshour/show/15-percent-of-americans-have-migraine-disease-why-arent-there-better-treatment-options</a> </li></ul></div><i>“The reality is that you will grieve forever. You will not ‘get over’ the loss of a loved one; you will learn to live with it. You will heal and you will rebuild yourself around the loss you have suffered. You will be whole again but you will never be the same. Nor should you be the same nor would you want to.”</i> - Elizabeth Kubler-Ross and David Kessler<div><br /></div><div class="blogger-post-footer">© 2010-present Jamie Valendy (Chronic Migraine Warrior).
Disclaimer: Nothing on this site constitutes medical or legal advice.</div>Chronic Migraine Warriorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01233477606042199183noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4314571900243142661.post-23414935856270943522020-06-21T08:30:00.030-07:002020-06-21T08:30:19.674-07:00Shades for Migraine 2020<div>Today, June 21, is Migraine Solidarity Day (aka, Shades for Migraine).</div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://www.shadesformigraine.org/">Shades for Migraine</a> is a global campaign hosted by the <a href="https://www.migrainedisorders.org/">Association of Migraine Disorders</a> to promote migraine awareness and show support for the 1 billion people living with migraine disease worldwide. <br /></div><div><br /></div><div>The collaborative campaign is simple to participate in: wear a pair of sunglasses of June 21, post a photo to social media with the hashtag #ShadesForMigraine, and challenge others to take part, too.</div><div><br /></div><div><i>"Show you care, wear a pair."</i></div><div><br /></div><div>Quick shoutout to my Dad: Happy Father's Day! </div><div><font face=""><i></i><i></i></font><i></i><br /></div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTnOqysdRN-5KJsz9kZ8o-2hHRQmPHSfxb3lGoI42wntzX_WMRUYyxi0dq9IEPzFoXCtHcQeRk8Ukxhew3_mrjzjmXcnnTHzmV6Knmv8xGWToqWy8_LFsKN4lZVMClTk_LSkBwAad_TCaY/s1800/IMG_3502.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1800" data-original-width="1800" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTnOqysdRN-5KJsz9kZ8o-2hHRQmPHSfxb3lGoI42wntzX_WMRUYyxi0dq9IEPzFoXCtHcQeRk8Ukxhew3_mrjzjmXcnnTHzmV6Knmv8xGWToqWy8_LFsKN4lZVMClTk_LSkBwAad_TCaY/w200-h200/IMG_3502.JPG" title="Chronic Migraine Warrior" width="200" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: black; display: inline !important; float: none; font-family: arial; font-size: 10.06px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><font face="Times New Roman"></font>© 2020 Jamie V.</span><b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDfPlJ2KtRISrrQ69Wsb6JbCPFN41PYKPqIqlP4Izo_RIVOLaNQYGxQrTLyuGGzGqMMTJGKDPx5fR9ub-EKTiHvR-SZMMifUC9l7-wNwgcDiMVCHkM3FlFEZE1aM3IKKdjb2nJJrO8UTNU/s2464/IMG_3465.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2464" data-original-width="2464" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDfPlJ2KtRISrrQ69Wsb6JbCPFN41PYKPqIqlP4Izo_RIVOLaNQYGxQrTLyuGGzGqMMTJGKDPx5fR9ub-EKTiHvR-SZMMifUC9l7-wNwgcDiMVCHkM3FlFEZE1aM3IKKdjb2nJJrO8UTNU/w200-h200/IMG_3465.jpg" title="Chronic Migraine Warrior" width="200" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: black; display: inline !important; float: none; font-family: arial; font-size: 10.06px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">© 2020 Jamie V.</span><b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQWhXJ9-bdlsybSFfE-tWWDQsBlUnFMOUErYXIGzL7Ph1fdvaEsp0KWGj-3ajK-pPnN2EWBqngcHewBVLsgGawFVNpp6VvFsQFUIKlO1qwtQKu8UhyphenhyphenKc6aND_6cZBX0ybWH2yhGejv2NXS/s2392/IMG_3480.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2392" data-original-width="2392" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQWhXJ9-bdlsybSFfE-tWWDQsBlUnFMOUErYXIGzL7Ph1fdvaEsp0KWGj-3ajK-pPnN2EWBqngcHewBVLsgGawFVNpp6VvFsQFUIKlO1qwtQKu8UhyphenhyphenKc6aND_6cZBX0ybWH2yhGejv2NXS/w200-h200/IMG_3480.jpg" title="Chronic Migraine Warrior" width="200" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: black; display: inline !important; float: none; font-family: arial; font-size: 10.06px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">© 2020 Jamie V.</span><b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><div><br /></div></div></div></div><div><b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike><br /></div><div class="blogger-post-footer">© 2010-present Jamie Valendy (Chronic Migraine Warrior).
Disclaimer: Nothing on this site constitutes medical or legal advice.</div>Chronic Migraine Warriorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01233477606042199183noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4314571900243142661.post-19206372838364604182020-06-16T08:30:00.029-07:002020-06-20T21:35:24.258-07:00Headache on the Hill Fundraising EventTaking part in headache disorders advocacy is an important part of my journey living with chronic pain. While I participate in advocacy work throughout the year, one of my favorite events is <a href="https://www.blogger.com/u/1/#">Headache on the Hill (HOH)</a> - you can follow the link to read about my <a href="https://www.blogger.com/u/1/#">HOH 2020 experience</a>.<div><br /></div><div>HOH is an annual event that brings together a large group of advocates in DC to share our stories, and call on lawmakers to recognize the impact and take action to reduce the burden (individual and societal) of headache disorders.</div><div><br /></div><div>The <a href="https://allianceforheadacheadvocacy.org/">Alliance for Headache Disorders Advocacy (AHDA)</a> organizes the annual HOH event and covers one night hotel for each attending advocate. Most advocates must cover the remaining travel costs out of their own pockets.</div><div><br /></div><div>In order to support the HOH event and provide assistance with travel scholarships for advocates to participate, Miles for Migraine is collaboratively* hosting a <a href="https://raceroster.com/31603?aff=AKG2G">first-annual walk/run/relax fundraiser event</a> from June 29 to July 7. </div><div><br /></div><div>There are a few different ways you can show your support: </div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Donate (any amount is greatly appreciated) <br /></li><li>Participate by walking, running, or relaxing (from 6/29 to 7/7)<br /></li><li>Share this post on social media </li></ul><div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQpVjK5VUyb-YE4ckRT20ohUEhsHC0K5C2j4GxH_y8JhzHSX27iod9EJZ0M9PP0xWJo7az53i3ilxrorlk-E7eBtSXuKieQ_PLqg2w2y6KV2lPEN11dkJm-6lGv57A2sOlhYpJKK6eM9Qb/s3024/Jamie+HOH.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="3024" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQpVjK5VUyb-YE4ckRT20ohUEhsHC0K5C2j4GxH_y8JhzHSX27iod9EJZ0M9PP0xWJo7az53i3ilxrorlk-E7eBtSXuKieQ_PLqg2w2y6KV2lPEN11dkJm-6lGv57A2sOlhYpJKK6eM9Qb/w200-h200/Jamie+HOH.jpg" title="Chronic Migraine Warrior" width="200" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12.8px; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: center; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: black; display: inline !important; float: none; font-family: arial; font-size: 10.06px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">© 2020 Jamie V.</span></span><b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike><br /></td></tr></tbody></table>This link takes you to the event page: <a href="https://raceroster.com/31603?aff=AKG2G">HOH walk run relax event</a>. From there, you can Pledge a Team (Chronic Migraine Warrior), Donate to a Participant (Jamie Valendy), or Register (and join my team). </div><div><br /></div><div>This link takes you to my team page: <a href="https://raceroster.com/events/2020/31603/headache-on-the-hill-walk-run-or-just-relax/pledge/participant/9478371?aff=AKG2G">Team Chronic Migraine Warrior</a>. From there, you can Make a donation or Join my team.</div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://raceroster.com/events/2020/31603/headache-on-the-hill-walk-run-or-just-relax/pledge/participant/9478371?aff=AKG2G">Please join me!</a><br /><br /><i>"Each one of us can make a difference. Together we make a change."</i> - Barbara Mikulski</div><div><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #111111; display: inline; float: none; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 400 18px/1.33em "segoe ui","arial","helvetica",sans-serif; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"></span><b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike><br /></div><div>*Participating non-profit organizations for this event include:</div><ul><li><a href="https://www.blogger.com/u/1/#">Miles for Migraine</a><br /></li><li><a href="https://www.blogger.com/u/1/#">Coalition of Headache and Migraine Patients (CHAMP)</a></li><li><a href="https://www.blogger.com/u/1/#">National Headache Foundation (NHF)</a></li><li><a href="https://www.blogger.com/u/1/#">Clusterbusters</a></li><li><a href="https://www.blogger.com/u/1/#">The Headache and Migraine Policy Forum (HMPF)</a></li><li><a href="https://www.blogger.com/u/1/#">Headache Cooperative of New England</a></li><li><a href="https://www.blogger.com/u/1/#">Headache Cooperative of the Pacific</a></li><li><a href="https://www.blogger.com/u/1/#">Southern Headache Society</a></li><li><a href="https://www.blogger.com/u/1/#">American Migraine Foundation (AMF)</a></li><li><a href="https://www.blogger.com/u/1/#">US Pain Foundation</a></li><li><a href="https://www.blogger.com/u/1/#">Danielle Byron Henry Migraine Foundation</a></li><li><a href="https://www.blogger.com/u/1/#">Association of Migraine Disorders (AMD)</a></li></ul><div><br /></div><div class="blogger-post-footer">© 2010-present Jamie Valendy (Chronic Migraine Warrior).
Disclaimer: Nothing on this site constitutes medical or legal advice.</div>Chronic Migraine Warriorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01233477606042199183noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4314571900243142661.post-32351400989953547462020-06-09T08:30:00.008-07:002020-06-09T10:27:37.189-07:00Migraine World Summit 2020 Replay<div>The <a href="https://migraineworldsummit.com/?afmc=90">Migraine World Summit</a> is a virtual event that broadcasts interviews from over 30 leading experts, including doctors and specialists, to share about treatments, research, and strategies to help you manage and improve your headache disorder. </div><div><br /></div><div>The 2020 event took place in March. Due to the significant challenges we’re facing in the midst of the Covid-19 pandemic, the event is being offered again from <b>June 10-19</b>. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCevH9uXuZOW8zOoxcJlSummWNF95OZery-JFYMy8YHgTYxPNEon2g2KATPdYVmsyvEng06PBTMzGC84qGM-QfTkzRM0lrvg0_cGZF44ALjU-uFlnRqUle4ObkXJcrVpk6BrcEXR9NskSw/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1275" data-original-width="1650" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCevH9uXuZOW8zOoxcJlSummWNF95OZery-JFYMy8YHgTYxPNEon2g2KATPdYVmsyvEng06PBTMzGC84qGM-QfTkzRM0lrvg0_cGZF44ALjU-uFlnRqUle4ObkXJcrVpk6BrcEXR9NskSw/s320/Migraine+World+Summit+Replay+2020.jpg" width="320" /></a></div></div><div>The event is FREE: the interviews will be open according to the event schedule (4 per day, plus 1 webinar), changing each day at 6pm ET. You can access the interviews directly on the website free for 24 hours. If you’d like to have lifetime access to the interviews, you can purchase the <a href="https://migraineworldsummit.com/?afmc=90">Summit All-Access Pass</a> (affiliate link).</div><div><br /></div><div>Register for free: <a href="https://migraineworldsummit.com/?afmc=90">Migraine World Summit 2020 Replay</a></div><div><br /></div><div>Tune in <b>June 9</b> at 5pm ET for a Live Pre-Summit Q&A with Hosts, Carl Cincinnato and Paula Dumas. They’ll explain why the Summit is being replayed, what’s new about the June Replay, and answer other questions. It’s free to join, but you must register beforehand. Click the link to register (no sign up required) for the <a href="https://bit.ly/presummit6_9">Live Pre-Summit Q&A</a>.</div><div><br /></div><p style="margin: 0in;"><span></span><span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: "arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"></span></p>
<div class="blogger-post-footer">© 2010-present Jamie Valendy (Chronic Migraine Warrior).
Disclaimer: Nothing on this site constitutes medical or legal advice.</div>Chronic Migraine Warriorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01233477606042199183noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4314571900243142661.post-38647325598765363222020-06-01T08:00:00.058-07:002020-06-20T21:35:11.342-07:00Wear Purple & Headache at Work<div>June 1 is the first day of <a href="https://www.migraineheadacheawarenessmonth.org">Migraine and Headache Awareness Month (MHAM)</a>. Today, we’re highlighting a headache awareness initiative and headache at work. </div><div><b></b><br /></div><div><b></b><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh74yXHoSwB8piBjB2TAM0MvqkY73L07qLPiiNSFcZPaRyIBb0wxHazMarDTHWAUbPpp9AgaCEqcFt8QT4zJ-IzuD20FkS8hZO6flcc7YsJmMlcjQHMOFSXOVc9Qti0UM-8qVjXI9-cB7rs/" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2631" data-original-width="2631" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh74yXHoSwB8piBjB2TAM0MvqkY73L07qLPiiNSFcZPaRyIBb0wxHazMarDTHWAUbPpp9AgaCEqcFt8QT4zJ-IzuD20FkS8hZO6flcc7YsJmMlcjQHMOFSXOVc9Qti0UM-8qVjXI9-cB7rs/w200-h200/Valendy+wear+purple.jpg" title="Valendy: Wear Purple" width="200" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><font face="arial" size="1">© 2020 Jamie V.</font></span><b><b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike><br /></b></td></tr></tbody></table><b>Wear Purple to Work (at Home)</b></div><div><b></b><br /></div><div>The <a href="https://www.blogger.com/u/1/#">National Headache Foundation (NHF)</a> created an initiative to help promote migraine and headache awareness: Wear Purple to Work (at Home). On June 1, wear purple and share a photo on social media to show solidarity for the 40+ million people in America living with headache disorders. </div><div><br /></div><div>When you share on social media, please use the hashtags: #MHAM #MHAM2020.</div><div><b></b><br /></div><div><b>Headache at Work</b></div><div><b></b><br /></div><div>Work often includes facing a slew of headache and migraine triggers that can stack and result in increased attacks: bright lights, computer screens, strong odors / scents, loud noises, stress, rigid schedules and deadlines, the list goes on. </div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhrqO5DhfAA75Z-hdD0dV9NB8fHXb-JMQVmstYdu0J3fi9pSnWXc1zN7hVCp0MpVUpthohjeTP1OcyhbG0wIvYDE3-LT2g0sdrtiQE82uy9J2pFjm66hmaop-lIflvY_SIreR6wvgJFv9Z/" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1275" data-original-width="1276" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhrqO5DhfAA75Z-hdD0dV9NB8fHXb-JMQVmstYdu0J3fi9pSnWXc1zN7hVCp0MpVUpthohjeTP1OcyhbG0wIvYDE3-LT2g0sdrtiQE82uy9J2pFjm66hmaop-lIflvY_SIreR6wvgJFv9Z/w200-h200/Headache-At-Work.png" title="Headache at Work" width="200" /></a></div>Many people are working from home during the pandemic. For some, work being moved to a virtual / from home format is proving to allow the flexibility needed to be a more productive worker and have improved quality of life. </div><div><br /></div><div>It’s unclear what the work landscape will look like, as more workplaces decide how to move forward. It remains important to recognize the need for employer accommodations for those living with headache disorders. Hopefully these months of virtual workplaces will provide the evidence needed for companies to consider offering employees more options moving forward. </div><div><br /></div><div>Once workplaces bring people back to the office, the <a href="https://www.blogger.com/u/1/blog/post/edit/4314571900243142661/8756941033331868645#">Migraine at Work</a> campaign provides tools and resources for employers and employees to utilize. </div><div><br /></div><div><i>"I don't have a dis-ability, I have a different-ability."</i> - Robert M. Hensel<br /></div><br /><div class="blogger-post-footer">© 2010-present Jamie Valendy (Chronic Migraine Warrior).
Disclaimer: Nothing on this site constitutes medical or legal advice.</div>Chronic Migraine Warriorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01233477606042199183noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4314571900243142661.post-66674442213781104232020-05-31T08:00:00.003-07:002023-05-19T10:39:51.291-07:00Migraine and Headache Awareness Month (MHAM) 2020<div>June is Migraine and Headache Awareness (MHAM) Month. This year’s theme is: You need community. #MHAM #MHAM2020 #YouNeedCommunity<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmEErfhxRf0Lbye1d3-iKi0e9UHABmfZD_cUj9nvuutP8LUgZo1tCgLcXDUTZ1xJodT29htDa2DehKinfBekM9azdHXw67-ZVP8YdqAq8MccyzH_Dyag0lxbOiaq47rG4OyxhUDk4OEj5g/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="593" data-original-width="1000" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmEErfhxRf0Lbye1d3-iKi0e9UHABmfZD_cUj9nvuutP8LUgZo1tCgLcXDUTZ1xJodT29htDa2DehKinfBekM9azdHXw67-ZVP8YdqAq8MccyzH_Dyag0lxbOiaq47rG4OyxhUDk4OEj5g/s320/MHAM-logo.png" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></div><div>If you're interested in learning more or getting involved, <a href="https://www.blogger.com/u/1/#">Migraine Headache Awareness Month</a> is a great resource for information regarding upcoming activities being hosted by various individuals and organizations within the headache disorders community. </div><div><br /></div><div>I’ve participated in Migraine and Headache Awareness Month, since it started in 2012. Some years, I’ve been able to participate more than others. One thing that hasn’t changed, is the excitement of coming together with others in the community to share our stories and do what we can to raise awareness, decrease stigma, and make the invisible visible. </div><div><br /></div><div>In the past, there have been daily blog and social media challenges. I’ve enjoyed participating in those ways, but I’ve also struggled with feeling guilt and shame for not being able to keep up. That’s something I continue to work on, as the pressure to perform is self-inflicted. </div><div><br /></div><div>I’m not sure how this year’s awareness month will look, from my participation standpoint. Perhaps I’ll take the opportunity to share some photos and stories from previous advocacy activities and even some attacks (I’ll be sure to label with the date, so it’s clear when they were). Whatever it looks like, I’ll write and share… and, I’ll be proud to be part of a community of people that “get it.” </div><div><br /></div><div>Here’s how to find me and follow along: <a href="http://www.chronicmigrainewarrior.com/">Blog</a><span face=""arial",sans-serif" style="font-size: 10pt; line-height: 107%;"><span> </span>–</span> <a href="https://follow.it/chronic-migraine-warrior?leanpub" target="_blank">subscribe by email</a>. <a href="http://www.facebook.com/ChronicMigraineWarriorBlog">Facebook</a>. <a href="http://www.instagram.com/chronicmigrainewarriorblog/">Instagram</a>.<br /></div><br /><i>“One of the most important things you can do on this earth is to let people know they are not alone.” </i><br /><div> - Shannon L. Alder <br /></div><div><b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike><br /></div><div class="blogger-post-footer">© 2010-present Jamie Valendy (Chronic Migraine Warrior).
Disclaimer: Nothing on this site constitutes medical or legal advice.</div>Chronic Migraine Warriorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01233477606042199183noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4314571900243142661.post-92162948015624292252020-03-05T19:57:00.001-07:002022-12-13T19:30:42.288-07:00An Update & More Migrainous MusingsI have been struggling with a rough stretch of <a href="https://www.ichd-3.org/1-migraine/1-4-complications-of-migraine/1-4-1-status-migrainosus/">status migrainosus</a>. I sometimes get flashes of clarity or expression, when I'm in the midst of deep distress... sometimes I'm able to capture the words, scribbling them down wherever I can. Last year, I shared some <a href="https://www.chronicmigrainewarrior.com/2019/01/migrainous-musings.html">Migrainous Musings</a>. I'm here, again, yet there's little comfort in the familiarity of this place. The timelessness and dominance of pain described in <a href="https://www.chronicmigrainewarrior.com/2011/08/pain-has-element-of-blank.html">Pain has an Element of Blank</a> continues to resonate and ring true to my own experience.<br />
<br />
I continue to share, and hope you'll excuse the raw, unedited migrainous musings / ramblings of a brain in pain.<br />
<br />
There's an emptiness inside me that knows no bounds.<br />
Sometimes it tries to swallow me up.<br />
Is it the pain? The anxiety? The depression?<br />
Or is this emptiness me?<br />
<br />
To know me truly,<br />
See the darkness inside me,<br />
Then don't turn and run.<br />
<br />
The darkness surrounds.<br />
Is it here to stay this time?<br />
Please don't consume me.<br />
<br />
I do not fear the darkness in others. I generally don't fear it in myself. But, there are times that it becomes overwhelming, and I can't see the light.<br />
<br />
I feel like I'm disappearing. Shattering into tiny pieces and blowing away in the wind. Like I'm a fragile shell, being crushed by the weight of darkness. Do I still exist? What is left of me, when the pain overflows?<br />
<br />
I'm not ok. I know I've been in this place before, and somehow come out the other side. But, that doesn't compute right now. This feels like my forever. Like I'm trapped.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<b>Update 1 (March 3):</b><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
I've spent most of the last week in the hospital getting infusions to try to break this status migraine.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1h80dQXRlTCFv7pWwothL55pJ70BCw0zNoxrvNUQK7fTgyBTCN0deguJ6k8fAMlrdlFrY15qsPqe9KrrtJ2Ulb4XtpK352XcJBWwFl4qEUL8C4Angmic-FtkReBiuh0PHq4_6SBTr3UXj/s1600/IMG_1799.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1h80dQXRlTCFv7pWwothL55pJ70BCw0zNoxrvNUQK7fTgyBTCN0deguJ6k8fAMlrdlFrY15qsPqe9KrrtJ2Ulb4XtpK352XcJBWwFl4qEUL8C4Angmic-FtkReBiuh0PHq4_6SBTr3UXj/s200/IMG_1799.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Six days. Three IVs. Loads of meds. My mind and body are still in turmoil, and I don't know how long it'll take to feel like me again. I've been here before. I know that I get out. But, I don't know how. It feels too hard. I feel too weak.<br />
<br />
<b>Update 2 (March 4):</b><br />
<br />
Today is filled with more pain than I feel I can bear. I'm not sure how I can survive it. I've treated hard. I'm trying to give myself rest. Nothing feels enough. I know I'll get through it... somehow... because I always do. Every time. Yet, even that gives me no solace in this moment.<br />
<br />
<b>Update 3 (March 5):</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
I woke today feeling more me than I have in a long time. Pain levels are lower. My mind and body are so weary and I can feel the weight of the battles fought. But right now, in this moment, I'm praising God for His provision and the respite.<br />
<br />
<i>"At the end of the day, we can endure much more than we think we can." </i>- Frida Kahlo<br />
<br /><div class="blogger-post-footer">© 2010-present Jamie Valendy (Chronic Migraine Warrior).
Disclaimer: Nothing on this site constitutes medical or legal advice.</div>Jamiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12251221896260997647noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4314571900243142661.post-29563984800590392782020-02-17T16:32:00.000-07:002020-02-17T16:32:10.226-07:00Headache on the Hill: Behind the Scenes<i>As I began writing about my <a href="https://www.chronicmigrainewarrior.com/2020/02/headache-on-hill-2020.html">Headache on the Hill 2020</a> experience, I found a post that was written but never posted from last year's event. The following post is from 2019, though much of it is timeless.</i><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJue5g2C6sw3bm1dez5pR4WdWHmbJ04iJoUO5DthAXdKY3kKLtaP0JSuwczP04OhZSCdYp_CSdTbHwdc5emZaZAbT-UKROCEs8fjJsyofM1gPVnruZtpYfnGuOq3gcsjWShN5jfCWgppky/s1600/photo-1455849318743-b2233052fcff.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="901" data-original-width="1350" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJue5g2C6sw3bm1dez5pR4WdWHmbJ04iJoUO5DthAXdKY3kKLtaP0JSuwczP04OhZSCdYp_CSdTbHwdc5emZaZAbT-UKROCEs8fjJsyofM1gPVnruZtpYfnGuOq3gcsjWShN5jfCWgppky/s320/photo-1455849318743-b2233052fcff.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: right;">Photo by <a href="https://unsplash.com/photos/TamMbr4okv4">Ian Schneider</a> on <a href="http://www.unsplash.com/">Unsplash</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
In writing about <a href="https://www.chronicmigrainewarrior.com/2019/09/headache-on-hill-2019-my-experience.html">my experience</a> and <a href="https://www.chronicmigrainewarrior.com/2019/09/headache-on-hill-2019-asks.html">the asks</a> of Headache on the Hill (HOH) 2019, I realized that there's another side that needs to be shared.<br />
<br />
Every person that went through the process to participate in HOH has their own story of the event. Some people weren't able to make the trip because of health, financial, or other reasons. Some pushed to make the trip, but were then unable to attend training and/or their meetings on the Hill because of health. Some pushed to participate, and then crashed hard afterward.<br />
<br />
Headache diseases can be unpredictable. And, everything that participating in a lobbying event like HOH entails adds up and can be difficult to do while living with the uncertainty of chronic health conditions.<br />
<br />
Sometimes you can push through, and sometimes you can't. There is no shame in that. Oh! But, I know that those unable to attend their meetings were overwhelmed by enormous emotions.<br />
<br />
<b>Traveling alone</b><br />
<br />
I haven't traveled much alone, since I became chronic after my car accident in 2008. My husband and I have traveled, but my only solo travel has been to visit and stay with family. Attending HOH was the first non-family related travel that I ventured out on my own. I was both excited for the independence and anxious about managing on my own. Knowing that I had friends also attending HOH helped put my mind at ease.<br />
<br />
The day before the HOH training was a travel day for me. I flew across the country alone. Time in a plane is hard on the body, and I was hurting badly, when I arrived in Washington, D.C. I made it to the hotel, checked in, and collapsed onto my bed. A friend of mine invited me to dinner and encouraged me to come, despite my exhaustion and pain. I appreciated being around people that get it, and I know that my body needed an actual meal after a day of snacking. I made it back to my room after dinner, but I was completely spent. The weather outside was worsening, and my head and body pain mirrored that.<br />
<br />
<b>Reaching out for support</b><br />
<br />
I reached out to my sister, in tears. The exchange of messages revealed the spiral that pain often takes me on.<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<i>"When I hurt, my brain catastrophizes. I'm trying to not be overcome with thoughts about not being prepared tomorrow, should I take meds today, if I take today I can't take more tomorrow, etc... It's just a spiral I go through. It's hard."</i></blockquote>
My sister doesn't experience migraine herself. She has a truly beautiful heart, though, and has taken note of things that I've mentioned help me in the past. She recommended heat... all I had were hand warmers, but she encouraged me to use them to try to help manage the pain (specifically my neck pain).<br />
<br />
One thing that I appreciated was that she made a couple simple recommendations (heat and ice), which can sometimes slip my mind. She acknowledged what she wasn't equipped to guide me on. Through it all, she offered me what I needed most... herself. Knowledge that I wasn't alone. Prayers being sent up on my behalf. Reminders that my my painful groans are wordless prayers that reach our Father, when we cannot find the words. Sharing a beautiful song to speak truth to my heart in a way that it could hear it. The song she sent on that night: <a href="https://youtu.be/1srs1YoTVzs">Fear is a Liar by Zach Williams</a>.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/1srs1YoTVzs/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/1srs1YoTVzs?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
<br />
The person that was supposed to be my roommate wasn't able to make it because of a status migraine, but she did her best to try to help from afar... even going so far as to try to get some supplies delivered to me to help me through the attack.<br />
<br />
I ended up treating the migraine attack, and made it through the night. My mind and body felt the effects of the battle that had raged on the previous day, but I was able to attend the training day. After training, I gave my body rest and quiet.<br />
<br />
The day we went to the Hill for our meetings, one of the people in my group was having a bad migraine attack. I offered support in the ways that I was able to, and checked up on him throughout the day. We shared that he was missing the day's meetings due to a migraine attack, which highlighted the impact of this disease.<br />
<br />
I've observed, heard others' stories, and experienced first-hand, the love and support that this community has among its members. There is an often unspoken understanding that we all experience pain and other symptoms, allowing for deeper connections and support in ways that can feel like home. There is such great power and hope in knowing that we're not alone.<br />
<br />
<i>“Give your weakness to one who helps.” - Rumi</i><br />
<i><br /></i><div class="blogger-post-footer">© 2010-present Jamie Valendy (Chronic Migraine Warrior).
Disclaimer: Nothing on this site constitutes medical or legal advice.</div>Jamiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12251221896260997647noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4314571900243142661.post-29141092399675766482020-02-15T14:05:00.000-07:002020-02-15T14:05:21.688-07:00Headache on the Hill 2020This week, I joined a group of 174 advocates from 45 states in Washington, DC at the 13th annual <a href="https://allianceforheadacheadvocacy.org/headache-on-the-hill/">Headache on the Hill</a> lobbying initiative, which is organized by the <a href="https://allianceforheadacheadvocacy.org/">Alliance for Headache Disorders Advocacy (AHDA)</a>.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicndxU7UBSfDLtbjWrXAZ3jKMadyhWwbyn7f0g62E-DeKETNm6BTmbtYfeShf8VgMOedW7QNkjM9hQGovHiZ8oDeGZeWiyjft8oNc1GqOjPpuRT0F02NGedBfc8rVyj0gDd3akIQ3OPugb/s1600/2020+HOH+%25287%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicndxU7UBSfDLtbjWrXAZ3jKMadyhWwbyn7f0g62E-DeKETNm6BTmbtYfeShf8VgMOedW7QNkjM9hQGovHiZ8oDeGZeWiyjft8oNc1GqOjPpuRT0F02NGedBfc8rVyj0gDd3akIQ3OPugb/s320/2020+HOH+%25287%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">2020 Headache on the Hill</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
This was my second time participating in Headache on the Hill (<a href="https://www.chronicmigrainewarrior.com/2019/09/headache-on-hill-2019-my-experience.html">Headache on the Hill 2019: My Experience</a>). We spent Monday in training and preparing for our Hill visits. On Tuesday, we loaded onto buses to head to the Capitol for a group photo, before splitting up to head to our congressional meetings.<br />
<br />
<b>Team Arizona</b><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU27YL7QRnYOPrY5vaL3_PgxCUztvfjJS8YAQnKPQcTYAAomkw3GEkm69lPL1mXl8yt3gKSiL66TxINiaUzT4gu65iiSzu8q3HXNfb874NSFO__rOV7M2k71P3vJetxMQy5JcaDJlGapxB/s1600/2020+HOH+%25288%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU27YL7QRnYOPrY5vaL3_PgxCUztvfjJS8YAQnKPQcTYAAomkw3GEkm69lPL1mXl8yt3gKSiL66TxINiaUzT4gu65iiSzu8q3HXNfb874NSFO__rOV7M2k71P3vJetxMQy5JcaDJlGapxB/s200/2020+HOH+%25288%2529.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Team Arizona</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
The group for Arizona was made up of six amazing advocates: Kerrie Smyres, Dr. Amaal Starling, Amy Tees, Jenn Tingwald, Jamie Valendy, and Don Vanderpool.<br />
<br />
We had a full schedule, meeting with the offices of: Senator Kyrsten Sinema, Senator Martha McSally, Representative Greg Stanton, Representative Ruben Gallego, Representative Paul Gosar, Representative David Schweikert, Representative Ann Kirkpatrick.<br />
<br />
Our meetings went well, and we were able to make some connections with the staffers we met with. I never cease to be amazed at the prevalence of headache disorders. Everyone has some connection to them. It reminds me that my voice and story speak for so many others that live with migraine or other headache disorders... and that gives me a push to continue advocating.<br />
<br />
<b>Migraine Impact</b><br /><div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The impact that migraine has on individuals, families, and society is profound. Sharing my story with legislators gives a face to the disease, while sharing statistics speaks to the pervasiveness and burden of migraine and other headache disorders. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Migraine is a prevalent and serious public health issue:<div>
<ul>
<li>Migraine is the 2nd leading cause of disability in the United States (<a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6191530/">1</a>).</li>
<li>47 million Americans will have migraine attacks this year (<a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6191530/">1</a>).</li>
<li>5 million Americans with migraine will have 10 or more days with headache per month (<a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20813784">2</a>).</li>
</ul>
<div>
Migraine is part of the Chronic Pain Crisis in the United States:</div>
<ul>
<li>There are more than 1.2 million emergency department visits for migraine annually in the United States (<a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24948146">3</a>).</li>
<li>59% of emergency department visits in the United States for migraine include opioid treatments (<a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20813784">2</a>).</li>
<li>Opioids are not indicated for the treatment of migraine (<a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24266337">4</a>), and opioid use may increase the frequency and severity of migraine attacks (<a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27882516">5</a>).</li>
</ul>
</div>
<div>
Migraine disease management requires patient access to headache medicine physicians:</div>
<div>
<ul>
<li>At least 8 headache medicine physicians are needed per 100k people with migraine (<a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/31985046">6</a>).</li>
<li>There are currently only 1.2 certified headache medicine physicians per 100k people with migraine in the United States (<a href="https://www.ucns.org/Online/Diplomate_Directory/Online/Diplomate_Directory">7</a>).</li>
</ul>
</div>
<div>
There are only 574 headache specialists in the United States (<a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/31985046">6</a>). Given the prevalence and burden of all headache disorders, the disparity of current and needed headache specialists is devastating.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>The 'Asks'</b><br />
<br />
The United States is facing a huge shortage of doctors, including specialists (<a href="https://www.aamc.org/news-insights/press-releases/new-findings-confirm-predictions-physician-shortage">8</a>). The Opioid Workforce Act <a href="https://www.congress.gov/bill/116th-congress/house-bill/3414">H.R.3414</a> / <a href="https://www.congress.gov/bill/116th-congress/senate-bill/2892?s=1&r=15">S.2892</a>) would fund 1,000 new physician training positions in addiction medicine, addiction psychiatry, and pain medicine.<br />
<br />
However, there is a problem with the bill language. It explicitly supports "approved residency training programs in... pain medicine." However, residency training programs do not exist in pain medicine. There are only approved fellowships in pain medicine. There is also no specific mention of headache medicine, which also has only fellowships.<br />
<br />
The asks:<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>Urge amendment to H.R.3414 / S.2892 to ensure support of US physician training in:</li>
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.acgme.org/">ACGME</a>-accredited pain medicine fellowships</li>
<li><a href="http://www.ucns.org/">UCNS</a>-accredited headache medicine fellowships</li>
</ul>
<li>Co-sponsor the bill and support pain medicine and headache medicine fellowships.</li>
</ul>
<div>
<br /></div>
</div>
<div>
<b>Advocacy Work</b></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8IvnqZ5BodM4rkjudfKoNfRKixhimI0F1MRMFjt48kzQBBEz57GRzb5B_NaPuVS_roqvQW-dsGIiOuRXAkPsqVDODl7O7-BF4PjaIzeX2IAkWOV2nKwMLyU2KNfXfoU3dIoJCOUSj6gBp/s1600/2020+HOH+%25282%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8IvnqZ5BodM4rkjudfKoNfRKixhimI0F1MRMFjt48kzQBBEz57GRzb5B_NaPuVS_roqvQW-dsGIiOuRXAkPsqVDODl7O7-BF4PjaIzeX2IAkWOV2nKwMLyU2KNfXfoU3dIoJCOUSj6gBp/s200/2020+HOH+%25282%2529.jpg" width="200" /></a>Taking part in advocacy work is an important part of my journey living with chronic pain. Being surrounded by others that are passionate about coming together as a unified voice for all people living with headache disorders fills me with hope. There is power in sharing our stories and making connections with others. I'm honored to have been able to participate in Headache on the Hill, again; and I look forward to continuing to do so. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<i>"Unity is strength... when there is teamwork and collaboration, wonderful things can be achieved." </i></div>
<i>- Mattie Stepanek</i><div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Sources:</span><div>
<span style="font-size: x-small;">(1) GBD 2016 Headache Collaborators (2018). Global, regional, and national burden of migraine and tension-type headache, 1990-2016: a systematic analysis for the Global Burden of Disease Study 2016. The Lancet. Neurology, 17(11), 954–976. <a href="https://doi.org/10.1016/S1474-4422(18)30322-3">https://doi.org/10.1016/S1474-4422(18)30322-3</a>. <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6191530/">https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6191530/</a>.<br />(2) Blumenfeld, A., Varon, S., Wilcox, T., Buse, D., Kawata, A., Manack, A., Goadsby, P., Lipton, R. (2011). Disability, HRQoL and resource use among chronic and episodic migraineurs: Results from the International Burden of Migraine Study (IBMS). Cephalalgia, 31(3), 301–315. <a href="https://doi.org/10.1177/0333102410381145">https://doi.org/10.1177/0333102410381145</a>. <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20813784">https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20813784</a>.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: x-small;">(3) Friedman, B. W., West, J., Vinson, D. R., Minen, M. T., Restivo, A., & Gallagher, E. J. (2015). Current management of migraine in US emergency departments: An analysis of the National Hospital Ambulatory Medical Care Survey. Cephalalgia, 35(4), 301–309. <a href="https://doi.org/10.1177/0333102414539055">https://doi.org/10.1177/0333102414539055</a>. <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24948146">https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24948146</a>. </span></div>
<span style="font-size: x-small;">(4) Loder, E., Weizenbaum, E., Frishberg, B., Silberstein, S. and (2013), Choosing Wisely in Headache Medicine: The American Headache Society's List of Five Things Physicians and Patients Should Question. Headache: The Journal of Head and Face Pain, 53: 1651-1659. <a href="https://doi.org/10.1111/head.12233">https://doi.org/10.1111/head.12233</a>. <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24266337">https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24266337</a>.</span><div>
<span style="font-size: x-small;">(5) Thorlund, K., Sun-Edelstein, C., Druyts, E., Kanters, S., Ebrahim, S., Bhambri, R., Ramos, E., Mills, E. J., Lanteri-Minet, M., & Tepper, S. (2016). Risk of medication overuse headache across classes of treatments for acute migraine. The journal of headache and pain, 17(1), 107. <a href="https://doi.org/10.1186/s10194-016-0696-8">https://doi.org/10.1186/s10194-016-0696-8</a>. <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27882516">https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27882516</a>.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: x-small;">(6) Begasse de Dhaem, O., Burch, R., Rosen, N., Shubin Stein, K., Loder, E. and Shapiro, R.E. (2020), Workforce Gap Analysis in the Field of Headache Medicine in the United States. Headache: The Journal of Head and Face Pain, 60: 478-481. <a href="https://doi.org/10.1111/head.13752">https://doi.org/10.1111/head.13752</a>. <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/31985046">https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/31985046</a>. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: x-small;">(7) <a href="https://www.ucns.org/Online/Diplomate_Directory/Online/Diplomate_Directory">https://www.ucns.org/Online/Diplomate_Directory/Online/Diplomate_Directory</a>.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: x-small;">(8) The Complexities of Physician Supply and Demand: Projections from 2017-2032, AAMC, April 2019. <a href="https://www.aamc.org/news-insights/press-releases/new-findings-confirm-predictions-physician-shortage">https://www.aamc.org/news-insights/press-releases/new-findings-confirm-predictions-physician-shortage</a>.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
</div>
<div class="blogger-post-footer">© 2010-present Jamie Valendy (Chronic Migraine Warrior).
Disclaimer: Nothing on this site constitutes medical or legal advice.</div>Chronic Migraine Warriorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01233477606042199183noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4314571900243142661.post-6393395850761069162019-09-14T12:00:00.000-07:002019-09-14T12:00:04.410-07:00Headache on the Hill 2019: The AsksIn my previous post, <a href="https://www.chronicmigrainewarrior.com/2019/09/headache-on-hill-2019-my-experience.html">Headache on the Hill 2019: My Experience</a>, I shared about my personal experience at the annual advocacy event. Below is what I wrote at the end of my time in DC. The majority of this post, however, will speak to our 'asks' for 2019.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<i>"The last few days have been an amazing, exhausting, powerful experience. I joined a wonderful group of patients, advocates, headache specialists, and other supporters in Washington, DC for the 12th annual Headache on the Hill. We met with lawmakers to raise awareness, request increased research funding commensurate to the burden of headache disorders, and demand equal protection and just coverage under Social Security Disability Insurance. I was honored to participate - it was especially rewarding to be working alongside my headache specialist. I will continue advocating for all those affected by headache disorders, and look forward to future visits to the Hill."</i></blockquote>
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This year, we asked our members of Congress to support increased research funding for headache disorders from the <a href="https://www.nih.gov/">National Institutes of Health (NIH)</a>, and to support requests directing the <a href="https://www.ssa.gov/">Social Security Administration (SSA)</a> to revise disease listings for determination of disability benefits for those disabled by migraine and other headache disorders.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://allianceforheadacheadvocacy.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/HOH-2019-LB-HEAL-House.pdf">Our 'ask'</a> for the <a href="https://www.nih.gov/">National Institutes of Health (NIH)</a> was to prioritize research funding commensurate to the burden of headache disorders. Congress has already appropriated funds for the <a href="https://www.nih.gov/research-training/medical-research-initiatives/heal-initiative">HEAL (Helping to End Addiction Long-term) Initiative</a> to address the need for non-opioid therapies for chronic pain. Some of those funds have been set aside for research in specific areas (back pain and hemodialysis pain). Our request was that some of the appropriated funds be allocated specifically for headache disorders, in proportion to the disease burden.<br />
<div>
<ul>
<li>Migraine is the 2nd leading cause of all global disability (<a href="https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lancet/article/PIIS0140-6736(17)32154-2/fulltext">1</a>).</li>
<li>Headache disorders are the least funded NIH research area among the most burdensome US diseases (<a href="https://report.nih.gov/info_disease_burden.aspx">2</a>).</li>
<li>Migraine research comprises just 0.6% of all NINDS extramural funding (<a href="https://report.nih.gov/categorical_spending.aspx">3</a>).</li>
</ul>
<div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzcqFvGd2IyIdhLAc6A_8IswQ02ezGrbfqWdyfD-_k7LXp_WgBJgOaNuSKpBCzf3mZg8vyw7YBJe6c2jijkavww_N366MYlgfSWlDeJw2n9-V4twfn4J_FCdwyRNhkgg-sHzsVpgS_JBU/s1600/IMG_0589i.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzcqFvGd2IyIdhLAc6A_8IswQ02ezGrbfqWdyfD-_k7LXp_WgBJgOaNuSKpBCzf3mZg8vyw7YBJe6c2jijkavww_N366MYlgfSWlDeJw2n9-V4twfn4J_FCdwyRNhkgg-sHzsVpgS_JBU/s320/IMG_0589i.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
<div>
<a href="https://allianceforheadacheadvocacy.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/HOH-2019-LB-SSI-House.pdf">Our 'ask'</a> for the <a href="https://www.ssa.gov/">Security Administration (SSA)</a> was to seek equal protection and just coverage under <a href="https://www.ssa.gov/disability/">Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)</a>. When a person applies for SSDI benefits, they are faced with an unfairly arduous process. When that person is filing a claim for benefits due to a headache disorder, they are often initially denied. What I didn't know until Headache on the Hill is why...</div>
</div>
<div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The SSA uses a <a href="https://www.ssa.gov/disability/professionals/bluebook/11.00-Neurological-Adult.htm">"Blue Book" listing of impairments</a>, when making decisions for disability benefits. If one's impairments meet or exceed the listing, benefits are granted. However, there are NO listings for any headache disorder!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
When a person applies for disability due to a headache disorder, the claim is compared to impairment listings for epilepsy. There is no guidance on how to apply an epilepsy listing to headache disorder impairments, and the two aren't sufficiently comparable.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
This is unacceptable, given the prevalence and impact of headache disorders:</div>
<ul><a href="https://www.thelancet.com/journals/langlo/article/PIIS2214-109X(15)00069-8/fulltext"></a>
<li><a href="https://www.thelancet.com/journals/langlo/article/PIIS2214-109X(15)00069-8/fulltext"></a>1 in 7 Americans will experience a migraine attack this year (<a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28919117">4</a>).</li>
<li>Active migraine attacks disable with impacts comparable to severe dementia or amputation of both legs (<a href="https://www.thelancet.com/journals/langlo/article/PIIS2214-109X(15)00069-8/fulltext">5</a>).</li>
<li>Only 37% of Americans with chronic migraine are employed full time (<a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20042889">6</a>).</li>
<li>Socioeconomic status decreases as migraine prevalence increases (<a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23990405">7</a>).</li>
</ul>
<div>
Our 'ask' was to reform the Social Security Administration (SSA) Blue Book for fair adjudication of headache disorder claims. We requested that the SSA offer clarification for how SSDI claimants with headache disorders should apply current Blue Book listings, ensure that all listings are updated at least every five years (it was last updated in 2016, but before that was 1985), and add a listing for headache disorders at the earliest opportunity.<br />
<br />
UPDATE: On August 26th, the SSA <a href="https://allianceforheadacheadvocacy.us15.list-manage.com/track/click?u=88eb2afc6ebb4515fac2872e9&id=07215853c1&e=607553e0fe">released a new Ruling</a> or SSR with guidance specific for "Evaluating Cases Involving Primary Headache Disorders."<br />
<br />
More information about Headache on the Hill 2019:<br />
<ul>
<li><a href="https://allianceforheadacheadvocacy.org/headache-on-the-hill/headache-on-the-hill-2019/">Alliance for Headache Advocacy HOH 2019</a></li>
<li><a href="https://americanmigrainefoundation.org/resource-library/headache-on-the-hill-2019/">American Migraine Foundation HOH 2019</a></li>
</ul>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Sources:</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">(1) GBD 2016. Global, regional, and national incidence, prevalence, and years lived with disability for 328 diseases and injuries for 195 countries, 1990-2016: a systemic analysis for the Global Burden of Disease Study 2016. <i>Lancet</i> 2019;390:1211-59, <a href="https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lancet/article/PIIS0140-6736(17)32154-2/fulltext">https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lancet/article/PIIS0140-6736(17)32154-2/fulltext</a></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">(2) <a href="https://report.nih.gov/info_disease_burden.aspx">https://report.nih.gov/info_disease_burden.aspx </a></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">(3) <a href="https://report.nih.gov/categorical_spending.aspx">https://report.nih.gov/categorical_spending.aspx</a></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">(4) Global Burden of Disease study, 2016, <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28919117">https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28919117</a>.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">(5) Salomon JA, et al. Disability weights for the Global Burden of Disease 2013 study. <i>Lancet Glob Health</i> 2015;3:e712-23, <a href="https://www.thelancet.com/journals/langlo/article/PIIS2214-109X(15)00069-8/fulltext">https://www.thelancet.com/journals/langlo/article/PIIS2214-109X(15)00069-8/fulltext</a>.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">(6) Stewart WF, et al. Employment and work impact of chronic migraine and episodic migraine. <i>JOEM</i>. 2010;52:8-14, <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20042889">https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20042889</a>. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">(7) Stewart WF, et al. Migraine prevalence, socioeconomic status, and social causation. <i>Neurology</i>. 2013;81:948-55, <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23990405">https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23990405</a>.</span></div>
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<div class="blogger-post-footer">© 2010-present Jamie Valendy (Chronic Migraine Warrior).
Disclaimer: Nothing on this site constitutes medical or legal advice.</div>Jamiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12251221896260997647noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4314571900243142661.post-44247471240841199472019-09-13T15:29:00.000-07:002019-09-14T12:51:10.177-07:00Headache on the Hill 2019: My ExperienceIn February, I joined a group of 160 advocates in Washington, DC at the 12th annual <a href="https://allianceforheadacheadvocacy.org/headache-on-the-hill/">Headache on the Hill</a> lobbying initiative. The event is organized by the <a href="https://allianceforheadacheadvocacy.org/">Alliance for Headache Disorders Advocacy (AHDA)</a>. Healthcare professionals, advocates, and patients come together to request that lawmakers recognize the impact of headache disorders and take action to increase research funding and awareness.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQDHBMIDaHTQxvrTXA5fd594VEaG0T6uDT4-gOKrhQoBGpU8VLaV6zztj2PWuJtny29jhFWACl-fvxpDT9PEgVDUHIHntVb0Y8IRqlLVNjBGnw8eCU7AduIOyFOZiznblnJVo_zdgpwls/s1600/IMG_0590.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="454" data-original-width="891" height="163" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQDHBMIDaHTQxvrTXA5fd594VEaG0T6uDT4-gOKrhQoBGpU8VLaV6zztj2PWuJtny29jhFWACl-fvxpDT9PEgVDUHIHntVb0Y8IRqlLVNjBGnw8eCU7AduIOyFOZiznblnJVo_zdgpwls/s320/IMG_0590.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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This was my first time participating in Headache on the Hill. The first day was filled with advocacy issue training and Hill visit preparation. We learned more about what our 'asks' would be (I'll share more in a separate post, <a href="https://www.chronicmigrainewarrior.com/2019/09/headache-on-hill-2019-asks.html">Headache on the Hill 2019: The Asks</a>, if you're interested) and we practiced sharing our personal stories of living with headache disorders, so that we'd be prepared to approach and interact with our policymakers.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHxsZSKnVP1ulmqD4SSC8aPvWAnwR0LbPPfw5Jpa0MJ9zENHZRyBuxyaiRcE1MD-KdMVo1BZb9nDejEIqiLir0zaGAwOubEPgW-FvaRMINhydTtSMhUVtDN8FMNqsjhujEnAJka9nO5og/s1600/IMG_0593.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="953" data-original-width="953" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHxsZSKnVP1ulmqD4SSC8aPvWAnwR0LbPPfw5Jpa0MJ9zENHZRyBuxyaiRcE1MD-KdMVo1BZb9nDejEIqiLir0zaGAwOubEPgW-FvaRMINhydTtSMhUVtDN8FMNqsjhujEnAJka9nO5og/s200/IMG_0593.jpg" width="200" /></a>The following day, we all came together for a group photo and a policy meeting, and then we broke up into small groups to visit our respective congressional members' offices.<br />
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My group didn't have scheduled meetings until the afternoon, so we split up to rest until then. One of our group members was unable to attend meetings because he was dealing with a migraine attack. While I know that being unable to participate was in many ways just as excruciating, we carried his story with us and used it in our meetings as a powerful example of what living with migraine disease is really like.<br />
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One group member down, I spent the day partnered up with my headache specialist (Dr. Amaal Starling) to attend our scheduled meetings.<br />
<ul>
<li>Our first meeting was with a staff member, and we felt a lack of interest in what we were sharing. </li>
<li>Our second meeting ended up being part of a "roundtable" situation, which basically meant that there were multiple groups there during the same time-slot, but the Representative was there in person. He had some personal interest in headache / migraine, but was dismissive to me as someone living with migraine and focused his attention on my partner (as a healthcare provider). </li>
<li>Our third meeting revealed the misunderstanding and stigma of headache disorders, but was where we really leaned on the story of our missing group member, as it was his congressional district's office we were visiting.</li>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXiXcSqmbI8xdGU08q0-A7DoPDTQ8j5B06lQaTK5lz-nqd6pTLFKOW6O7Y42dhA96iN1r8M9DjeGOafZFqawwTGG8z2yHf1RSIAH2WIuD2pa97roEHoM8eSZhjOGIaBM9mdWc3AFhaRxs/s1600/IMG_0595.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="339" data-original-width="339" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXiXcSqmbI8xdGU08q0-A7DoPDTQ8j5B06lQaTK5lz-nqd6pTLFKOW6O7Y42dhA96iN1r8M9DjeGOafZFqawwTGG8z2yHf1RSIAH2WIuD2pa97roEHoM8eSZhjOGIaBM9mdWc3AFhaRxs/s200/IMG_0595.jpg" width="200" /></a>Based on conversations with others that have attended Headache on the Hill before, my experience during the three meetings I attended were a bit different or rougher than "normal." It may have been a push into the deep end, but Dr. Starling and I worked well together in advocating for the headache community.<br />
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It was quite powerful to be surrounded by so many people with a passion for advocacy work. We were all on a single mission: to be the voice of all people living with headache disorders. We bravely shared our stories, to help others better understand what it's like to live with these diseases. I'm honored to have been able to participate, and I look forward to continuing to do so.<br />
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<i>"There is no power for change greater than a community discovering what it cares about." </i><br />
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<i>- Margaret J. Wheatley</i><br />
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<div class="blogger-post-footer">© 2010-present Jamie Valendy (Chronic Migraine Warrior).
Disclaimer: Nothing on this site constitutes medical or legal advice.</div>Jamiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12251221896260997647noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4314571900243142661.post-85194424143121405752019-06-28T15:00:00.000-07:002019-06-28T15:00:04.570-07:00Attempting to Re-emerge<div style="text-align: right;">
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhudRE_GX27nWi6p_luSn8gNpSHtRyG40gX0VmaEw9YZ5V9aAPsd5Xdtt6RTZyCRde0hW-5SZxHkwRn4KfLcJNAhK8MYJ6s7dUR5V9au8nqN83xan289a9ANAnhI5B1QYXizvhP7ZfgSt6S/s1600/tom-van-hoogstraten-1JWmFju8vVg-unsplash.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhudRE_GX27nWi6p_luSn8gNpSHtRyG40gX0VmaEw9YZ5V9aAPsd5Xdtt6RTZyCRde0hW-5SZxHkwRn4KfLcJNAhK8MYJ6s7dUR5V9au8nqN83xan289a9ANAnhI5B1QYXizvhP7ZfgSt6S/s320/tom-van-hoogstraten-1JWmFju8vVg-unsplash.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption">Photo by <a href="https://unsplash.com/@grafish?utm_source=unsplash&utm_medium=referral&utm_content=creditCopyText">Tom van Hoogstraten</a> on <a href="https://unsplash.com/collections/3603030/for-blog/dfed95a7234d2d35f2e3cf03d10296f7?utm_source=unsplash&utm_medium=referral&utm_content=creditCopyText">Unsplash</a></td></tr>
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Back in February, I posted about <a href="https://4314571900243142661_4d6823ea7d3afcdc6ea823cada44729ba55c9103.blogspot.com/b/post-preview?token=APq4FmD-FHki-muAxPrqUlEvUiiCvANCp4HdC7PfLih_IpJosFuNtOu51-5GT2W8nZ1LDeLddDGvOSavTE_MZAJ8WDikprUFbnFx0N-grdrwd-32RWlYlxI7_3wy2akjHNpXDKQollMJ&postId=4348707299430080026&type=POST">Upcoming Happenings</a>, and then I seem to have disappeared for a while. There's been a lot going on, and sometimes it's hard to share in the midst of it all. But, I do want to share, and I will. I'm trying to get back into the swing of writing... I hope you'll bear with me.<br />
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<i>"Start where you are. </i><br />
<i>Use what you have. </i><br />
<i>Do what you can."</i><br />
<i>- Arthur Ashe</i><br />
<br /><div class="blogger-post-footer">© 2010-present Jamie Valendy (Chronic Migraine Warrior).
Disclaimer: Nothing on this site constitutes medical or legal advice.</div>Chronic Migraine Warriorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01233477606042199183noreply@blogger.com2