Migraine Journey Wednesdays (Vol.13 – Mini Stories – Bee and Kelli O’Connell)

Kelli O’Connell

I am 44 years old and I started getting migraines at the age of 5. I went through a few procedures including PFO hysterectomy for help but none of them worked. I’ve also tried all type of medications, acupuncture, acupressure, botox, biofeedback, vitamins diet, etc.

Most of the people around me have been helpful and supportive. However, there are people who think it’s just a headache and they offer some Excedrin/Tylenol to me. My dog ilia is the best. He comforts me and lays by my head for moral support. Migraine has definitely affected my life greatly. I had to be home bound for school during my sophomore and junior year of high school. I still try to work unless I’m vomiting or losing sight.

On days where things get unbearable, I try my best to just get through the day. I’ve found that sleeping is the best way to cope. If I had to give a word of encouragement to fellow migraineurs, I’d say that I know it’s hard but just try to live the best life you can. I feel guilty for complaining about my migraines because I know that there are others out there who are suffering from much worse. Nonetheless, I still hope that my story provides some sort of comfort to those who are reading this. 

Bee

Hi, I’m Bee from Canada and I started getting migraines at the age of 19. The frequency of migraines have definitely increased over the years. For the most part, my family and friends have been understanding about my condition. Maintaining a job is so difficult and while living with something like migraines, it’s easy to fall behind in school. 

I’ve tried varying treatments such as Axert, Zomeg, Avamys sprays, and various painkillers. For now, I rely on Amvys spray and Advil. I need to explore other methods such as CBD. Axert was especially terrible for me because of the side effects. I sleep and find it very difficult to cope. Ice packs, pills, and peppermint halo helps the most for me.

Don’t just listen to your doctor’s final word when they tell you “you just have migraines and that’s that”. Keep at it and try to find a treatment that works the best for you. I would never have found some pain relief unless I kept on top of finding what was right for me.