I'm sure the majority of you are thinking: Migraine, a blessing? Not so much.
Most of the time, Migraine is NOT a blessing. It makes one tired, irritable, overly sensitive, and sometimes depressed. And it hurts. Oh, how it hurts.
But there have been times when Migraine was a constant companion throughout the frantic nights I've spent at my drawing table. Since I'm most awake at night most of the time anyway, my creative output is higher. Even though Migraine can muddle the mind, sometimes it's amazing what the brain can create during its storms. Sometimes I think I've done my best work in the middle of a 7-er. Creating artwork in the middle of a Migraine is like its own medication; I can shove the pain to the side and forget about it while my mind breaks things down into their component parts and then begins to reconstruct them.
I tend to get euphoric when experiencing a Migraine. It's a double-edged sword. The pain is terrible, and I'm thoroughly agitated. Sometimes there is nothing better to do than throw myself into the work I don't feel like doing on those days when I sleep too much or am recovering from the pain.
Let's not forget frantic, euphoric housework, but that's never as exciting as art.
I look forward to a time when I can work on my art as much as I want, without having to wait for another lingering spurt of euphoria. If I could turn that energy into something that could carry me into studio classes again then I would. Unfortunately the "blessing" of a Migraine with that creative output is rare, and meanwhile, I'll be sleeping. But at least it gives me the opportunity from time to time.
Dear Leeloo, Your most recent share piqued my interest and I have now read all your posts. My 17 year old son has migraines and I know that he is feeling overwhelmed right now. His entire high school experience has been mostly pain and humiliation---teachers who obviously don't understand and peers who make him feel weird. He was in a private school, but does not wish to return. Long, long story!!!! How did you manage your high school days and how do you manage full-time college work? This will be my son's senior year in high school. Many of your posts remind me of my son's struggle. Do you see a couselor? He has a migraine specialist, now, after many wasted, overmedicated years with a pediatric neurologist.
Hi Dorothy!
I am sorry to know your son has to go through all of this...It is very hard to go through school, to keep up not only with peers, but with work too.
In high school no one believed I was sick. I had a lot of silent Migraines-aura but no pain. I remember once being at work, going blind as the aura moved over, and my sup made me do my job anyway. I panicked. I don't know how I got through it, honestly.
Perseverance is always individual. I do let myself give up somedays. I think if you have this disease you have to from time to time. An attack sometimes has to run its course and you can't always fight it. But of course, when you can take your meds you should! And learning patience is key, too.
Recently I was moved from a busier store down to a slower one, because my sups think I am too sick to take care of the other one properly. I resented the decision but in the end it will likely be best for me, at least until I find out about my heart.
When all of this began, I had just begun college again. I was going for 16 credits. I already knew about my heart and knew that surgery was imminent. So I did talk to my professors about what was going on. I did not expect any favors and I knew if I missed something that was imperative to a grade then I would just have to miss it. I can tell you I never should have taken that many credits! But college is slow-go for me, and I wanted to get to seniordom as quickly as possible! When you are working or going to school, you have to trade off. You don't get as much fun time anyway, but with Migraines, you get even less. So I think to make it, you need to realize that fun will come and it will be rewarding when you get it finally, but in the meantime you have to work with what you can, get things done as you can, and worry about nothing but yourself in the meantime.
I wish you and your son all the best in the world. College should be an enjoyable if not nervous experience the first semester around. But he will find his rhythm!
Thank you so much for the reply! When I get home from work, I will share your posts, my comment, and your reply. I think he will be encouraged by your spirit, Dorothy