Migraine and Parenthood--Not an Easy Combo

If I have severe migraine disease, can I be a good parent, too?

I have two young kids who still need a lot of help and support.  I brush their teeth.  I give them a bath.  I help them with homework.  I make sure they are dressed neatly and well fed.  I read stories to them.  I love them and hug them and give everything I have inside to make sure they know that they mean the whole world to me.

My migraine disease is far from controlled right now.  I live nerve block-to-nerve block.  I'm trying new meds slowly and doing all my doctor recommends to find a good preventive plan.  My doctor is wonderful!  But my head is not cooperating. 

I am sometimes just too sick to be the mother I want to be.  Sometimes I can barely hold my head up as I help with the homework and reading.  Sometimes cooking is just too tough...and we have to resort to take out.  Sometimes I am so completely sick that I can only lie on the sofa with my eyes closed and my ears open to be sure the kids are in the room with me and staying safe.

My husband works long hours, so the kids really do need a Mom who is 100% there for them! 

I've taught my kids to be resourceful.  They can get their own snacks and drinks.  They know the house rules (most importantly, "Don't open the door for anyone--even if it's someone you know.  Ask Mommy first."). 

But I've had some scary symptoms lately!  EXTREME loss of vision, really bad vertigo, legs so shaky and tingly I could barely walk.  These things have come on suddenly and without much warning at all.

I want my kids to be safe and happy.  But I know they are not truly safe when I'm feeling so many strong symptoms at once!!!!

So I'm back to my original question...Can a severe migraine sufferer be a good parent, too??

jenny