Meghan Barnes RD

It's that time again...another month, another injection Are they working? Honestly, I don't know I think they have been, but my neurologist is switching me from aimovig to another one called emgality in July because @novartis has cancelled their Go Program that offers compassion coverage for those of us that either have little or no coverage. And let me tell you, these drugs don't come cheap... . I have had some good days and I am truly grateful for those living with... chronic migraines isn't easy. Not knowing when the pain will start or even stop. Some days I struggle with depression and wishing my "old" life back, wishing that I could think straight when trying to have to recall my past weeks to my doctor without falling apart. Hence, the second picture. . But it isn't all dark. I do see a light and this is what myself and anyone else who is reading this and going through something similar needs to focus on. I have an amazing support system. Doctors and specialists on my side that listen to me and are willing to help. And my daily gratitude practice continues to show me all the goodness that I blessed with. Hence, the 3rd picture, my puppy ! . Just don't give up. If you are in a similar situation, don't stop asking for a new referral or new meds or a new treatment. I used to tell my clients this all the time, be that pushy polite patient to your doctor. There is a treatment out there for you, it may take awhile to find it, but it's out there. . . . #migraine #migraines #chronicmigraine #chronicpain #chronicillness #gratitude #grateful #thankful #keepingpositive #keeponkeepingon #dontgiveup #yougotthis #dogsofinstagram #doggos #keepingitreal @ Calgary, Alberta

Injection number 4 done. And I have to say, I'm feeling a little optimistic... This past month, I've had a good handful of some really good days as well as some gawd awful days and a whole whack load of my "currently regular" painful days. But when I look back on it, those handful of pain-free moments and low pain days, are what keep me going. They are what keep me fighting, to stay positive and optimistic that something will work. Something has to work. At some point. . ...If you are wondering what I have been trying these past couple of months that might be making a difference, here it is. Daily meditation, light stretching, monthly Aimovig injections , new daily preventative medication, prescription CBD oil, ensuring enough water daily, not skipping meals, trying to stay on a good sleep routine , keeping my stress levels to a minimum, avoiding bright lights (flurolescent as well as sunlight) and loud noises, keeping movement to a minimum (which sucks when I am someone who used to love to be active - I know I'll get back there one day ) and keeping any reading or activities that require concentration to a 20-30 min max. . I do also see a couple other health practitioners that I feel help me, but again, everyone is different. What works for one person will not always work for someone else. . All this to say, those of you who are also fighting the fight of chronic migraine know, it is a daily battle. Not just with the pain, but also with yourself. Never give up. I know I won't. . #migraine #migraines #chronicpain #chronicmigraine #chronicillness #migrainelife #migraineur #livingwithmigraine #migrainerelief #nevergiveup See more

#botox session number today. We up'd it to 300 units this time. I really hope that it works. If anyone out there has ever had botox injections while having a #migraine, you know that it hurts like a #mutha....Let's get #honest here, living with pain isn't fun. It gets depressing. It's not a life for anyone. But as I've said in previous posts, #gratitude is one of my many ways I get through my days, #humor is another . I received a comment the other day about a previous IG... story that at least I have my smile. Well, you can always fake a smile right? My second pic is of me today in my car after my injections; #lifeishard but remember #yougotthis . . . . . #grateful #thankful #migraines #chronicpain #humour #reallife #letsgethonest #bereal #beyou #yyc @ Calgary, Alberta See more

This has hit closer to home than I could have ever imagined this past year. Living with pain, on a daily basis takes it toll on everyone. And it's definitely not easy. . If you are someone who lives with pain daily, you have to know that you are not alone. It has helped me to join different groups/forums, to realize that I am not alone. . If you know someone who lives with pain daily, reach out to them and let them know that you are there for them. I can only speak for myself... in this, but it helps. Even just a little bit, it does help. . . . . @didyoumeditate #livingwithpain #npaw2019 #livingwithpaineveryday #chronicillness #chronicpain #chronicpainawareness #selflove #selfcare #letstalk #migraine #migraines #yyc See more

I haven't posted in awhile, as the people who know me, know that I have been off work sick for some time now... . I've tried many different treatments and strategies, but to no avail. Alas, I recently learned about a program that @Novartis offers clients who are in need and are prescribed #aimovig . I finally received the medication today and am about to take it! A little anxious and yet hopeful! Living in pain everyday is depressing and exhausting. And I'm looking forward ...to having my life back! I'm keeping my fingers and hope you will too! . If anyone out there has tried this new medication, I would be happy to hear from you! Wish me luck . . . . #migraine #migraines #dailypain #aimoviginjections #wishmeluck #yyc See more