I have lived with migraine disease for more than three decades. The first ten years I was without a diagnosis with few treatment options. I am at least the fourth generation of women in my family with this disease and most likely the first with a formal diagnosis. I experienced my first attack the summer I turned eighteen years old. Migraine has been one of the greatest influencers of my adult life. Every challenge, accomplishment, celebration, professional experience, and adventure has been punctuated by this disease.

Unfortunately, my story is not unique. It is very common. Migraine disease and headache disorders are experienced by at least 40 million (population of California) Americans and as many as two billion people worldwide. It is the second leading cause of disability. Migraine is one of the most stigmatized diseases as many believe it is "just a headache" and can be successfully treated with over-the-counter medications, hydration, and diets. I

Migraine is a yet to be cured complex neurological diseases that impacts most of the body's systems. Finding a properly trained headache specialist is challenging and even when treatment plans are created they are multi-layered requiring a large time commitment to navigate a ill-equipped healthcare system. Too many are without access to basic medical care. Veterans and emergency workers also experience migraine at high rates due to injuries and exposure to toxins.

As a graduate of the Emerging Advocate Program, I am energized to participate in this fundraiser to increase much needed research and decrease damaging stigmas.

I have probably reached out to you before or maybe you saw a social media post from my pages. I am asking those who cross my path for support...whether it be a donation, greater empathy for those living with migraine, recognition of other in your lives who experience a headache disorder, or speaking up when you hear stigmatized language. My generous friends and family, please consider donating to these efforts in lieu of any gifts.

With appreciation and determination,

Terri