Member Stories

"I actually can be normal again."

"It really is life-changing."

In this episode, Cassie discusses how migraine and other changes in life can be managed with patience and self-compassion, and how it’s about finding what works through trial and error. We’re joined by Cassie from Indiana, a mom of two young children and a former public health physical therapist. Cassie opens up about her long and challenging journey with migraine, which began with severe dizziness and sickness in high school. What seemed like a stomach flu turned out to be the onset of a lifelong struggle with migraine. Cassie’s story is one of remarkable resilience and adaptation. She emphasizes the importance of understanding and evolving with your body through different life phases—from childhood and puberty to pregnancy and beyond. Instead of striving to return to a past version of herself, Cassie embraces the journey of becoming a new version of herself, learning to meet her body’s needs in the present.

"It really happened quickly... one and done really."

"I found progress by being open with what I was experiencing... and being open with those around me."

From childhood, Dulcie battled with migraines, masking her pain with a facade of 'okayness.' But beneath the surface, the struggle was real. In her courageous story, she shares invaluable insights on navigating trauma and migraines, offering hope and guidance to those with similar struggles. Highlights: 🔗 Calming the Storm: Dulcie discusses the challenge of calming migraine headaches and the relief of experiencing fewer attacks. 🔗 Importance of Slowing Down: Learning to slow down and give oneself rest becomes crucial in the journey towards healing. 🔗 Coping Mechanisms: Hobbies like reading became difficult, yet finding new ways to cope with pain was essential. 🔗 Finding Safety in Fear: Dulcie emphasizes the importance of feeling safe, especially when fear is overwhelming. 🔗 Understanding Trauma: Exploring the connection between trauma and the vagus nerve sheds light on the complexities of healing. 🔗 Resilience and Healing: Despite setbacks and frustrations, Dulcie found the courage to leave the darkness behind and embrace healing. Dulcie's journey is a testament to resilience, courage, and the power of perseverance in the face of adversity.

Priya Rama is a passionate artist and teacher. She's achieved notable recognition, winning the Grand Prize at Art North in 2022. In her art book, "Migraine Vision," she shares 50 paintings that explore the connection between art and pain. Priya's unique approach to turning migraine into art has gained recognition in publications, interviews, and podcasts. She actively showcases her work at galleries and art fairs across the country.Priya's migraine story goes beyond the canvas. She has been experiencing this debilitating condition since childhood to now. What began as occasional headaches turned into chronic migraine, seriously impacting her life. Priya vividly describes the visual aspects of her episodes, often featuring vibrant colors.

"I'm not as anxious as I used to be around the migraine... and that's pretty amazing."

"What you've done is made me aware of myself, which is almost more important."