[PHOTOSTORY 4: STRUGGLE] Weekly Migranes

 By: Alden Barbour

Anna has experienced migraines at least once a week for the past seven years. She has tried numerous remedies with little help.

Anna's migraines have had an impact in all areas of her life. She has seen several different doctors to try to find relief.

Prescription medication is nothing new to Anna. She has tried numerous kinds of medication to help the migraines.

Nurtec has been the most helpful in providing relief. Recently she has been prescribed a shot for relief.

Over the years, Anna has learned to live with the migraines. She is always willing to try something new to try to overcome them.

She was hesitant at first about the shot. After talking with several people she is getting her first one nest week.

Anna realizes that her migraines could be much worse. However, it bothers her when people say she is overreacting about a headache.

Her go-to to help avoid weekly migraines is blue Gatorade. She always keeps it on hand.

She claims only blue will do. She will only settle for another color if she must.

When asked if blue Powerade would do, she laughed and said absolutely not. She is loyal to Gatorade.

Sometimes, if the migraines are bad enough, neither medicine, caffeine, or Gatorade will help. When this happens she has to go to bed.

Since Anna has experienced her migraines for so long, one that bad is rare. She can push through most of them.

There are so many things that can trigger her migraines too. Not getting enough sleep or even certain smells are big factors. 

She recently had a brain MRI and head and neck Angiogram. Everything was normal.

Everything coming back normal in Anna's scans was certainly an answered prayer and great news. However, has left her surprised and with even more questions.

Hopeful for answers, Anna lives her life to the fullest, without letting her illness get in the way. She is always laughing and having fun.

Some weeks are better than others. Last week, was great, with no migraine at all. 

Anna is excited to have heard that some people are experiencing migraine relief from facial botox. She is interested and willing to try.

Most people who know Anna know about her migraines and are supportive. She says these people are her rock.

Anna does not let these migraines hold her back. She pushes through them and lives her best life.

Better days are ahead for Anna. She is hopeful.