Name: Pam K.
Residence: Dime Box, Texas
Conditions: Migraine
First Diagnosed: 16 years ago
Q: What is the most frustrating thing about your life?
A: If it is involving migraines, it would be trying to get them under control. They are unpredictable. Some months are really good, others, not so much. During the "bad" months, I lose days of my life that I can never get back, and that makes me angry. I feel like I am out of control, I feel that it is unfair to my family, and I feel cheated. If I could change one thing in my life, I would get rid of my headaches. Other "problems" in life come and go-- they are short lived. These things-- the headaches-- they are always.
Q: What are you most thankful for?
A: I am most thankful for my family. My husband, my son, and my mom. They are my entire world. After that, I am thankful for my friends.
Q: What’s your greatest achievement?
A: My greatest achievement is graduating from college at the age of 33. I had to work full time and juggle my family. My son was 3 when I went back to college, so I did it online. I was able to keep my job, go to school, and never skip a beat as far as my responsibilities to my family.
Q: How do you manage your condition?
A: I have a good headache specialist that I see. I take topamax (300 mg), welbutrin (300 mg), lisinopril, celexa (20mg), and 2 migrelief and 2 coQ-10 each day. When necessary, I have occipital blocks. For abortive meds, I use imitrex.
Q: What's your favorite book?
A: It is hard to say what my favorite book is because I love to read. I have read so many books it is crazy. My favorite authors are Patricia Cornwell and James Paterson, I love good mysteries, and I am a huge fan of "classics" like 1984 and Brave New World.
Q: Where do you get the greatest support?
A: My greatest support comes from my friends and family. I know that I can count on my mom and my husband to take care of me if I need them, and my friends are always there to encourage me if I need them. I also believe that God gives us the strength to tackle what ever life throws us. I need to lean on him more.
Q: What is your idea of happiness?
A: Happiness comes from within, and it is impossible to define. Happiness is different for each individual. For me, happiness has come in learning to be content with what God has blessed me with.
