Some things lost, Some things gained

Having intractable migraines is not easy. As it is not easy to have any chronic and debilitating disease. There is often much lost due to my migraines. Now there are so many things I once did that I can no longer do. But not all hope is lost.

I can no longer drive as far as I used to. The main reason is because I experience frequent dizziness and blurry vision. I do not like to stray too far from home. My brain is foggier than it used to be. Sometimes i feel disoriented when I drive. This is another reason as to why I do not drive very often.

I can't go out with my friends as much as I used to. Going out for a couple drinks and dancing is out of the question. It is too noisy and alcohol is a definate no no. That isn't such a big thing though, I'm not much of a drinker anyway.

I love rollercoasters, but can no longer ride them. Many times I just feel too poorly to go to events that friends and family are having. Often times if I do make plans, I must cancel them. So I have found it is better not to make plans as I do not want to disappoint everyone when I can't make it.

My career is not as advanced as I would like it to be. I am self employed because of my health. My income is not very high and work is a struggle. I feel as if I am not living up to my fullest potential, as if I am not using my college degree to it's fullest.

So yes, I have lost a lot as a chronic migraine sufferer. But you know what I have gained a lot too.(Sounds strange I know but please read on).

I belong to two migraine support groups online. Through these groups I have met some wonderful and amazing people. I have made some new friends, a couple of which i consider great friends. Had I not had migraines I may never have met these people.

My experience with migraines has given me an opportunity to reach out and help others. I volunteer for allexperts.com and answer people's questions about migraines. Some have told me that my answers have really been a help or at least a comfort in knowing they are not alone. I have always liked to help others and now even with my limitations, I still can.

It it were not for my migraines. My career would be quite different. I would be out working somewhere. But even this is not all bad. I need to be self employed so that I can work and rest would I need to. Sometimes I can't get as much done as I would like to make a better income. Howver, I have started my own business. I love what I do. ANd if I do get better someday I plan to expand my business. If it weren't for my migraines I may never have discovered this work that I love so.

Debilitating migraines that occur often are not fun. They change your life and make things very hard. But for me I have found that it is not all bad. I believe everything happens for a reason and I have found some purpose in my suffering.