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Danielle Newport Fancher, 34, first started getting migraine attacks when she was 16.
Weather changes can trigger migraine episodes for some people.
Different triggers can bring about migraine episodes, including stress, another one of Newport Fanchers personal triggers.
Theres a misconception thatmigraineis just a headache, but its so much more than that.
Having migraine is dealing with the constant disappointment that Im missing out on something.
Recently, I had a very painful migraine episode after it snowed.
I dont know exactly what it is about winter that makes my migraine attacks worse.
Since I live in New York City, that sums up a significant amount of wintertime.
The truth is,anytime of the year can throw me a migraine curveball.
Several years ago, I hit a breaking point.
My pain was too severe to continue working and I needed a true break.
My symptoms were unbearable, and my condition didnt qualify for disability.
So, I made the decision to quit my job and temporarily leave my life in New York.
I wouldn’t say my migraine attacks were less intense, but they happened less frequently.
Sneaking in some gentle movement has been especially important for my mood.
Something I dont do now, even in winter, is check the weather.
It just perpetuates a cycle of anxiety.
Since winter can feel especially isolating, I focus on connecting with other people who have migraine.
I met people by setting upan Instagram accountunder the name @MigraineWriter.
People started reaching out, and we built real friendships.
I find it comforting to know that I have a support connection of people who get it.
Its also so important to take advantage of lower-pain days whenever possible.
Ive also started doing advocacy work.
Above all, I will fight to change more perspectives aboutwhat its really like to live with migraine.
That alone motivates me to keep going.
