It’s been one year–Jan 25, 2019 was the day that I wrote my first blog, exposing my raw emotions of being a mom while managing a chronic illness to the world. When I started the_mindful_migraineur blog and Instagram account, I wanted nothing more than to help others. I felt a real tug at my heart to share my story–and by sharing my story, hopefully help others who are traveling down a similar life path.

On, January 5, 2019–I was discharged from my inpatient stay in Michigan at MHNI. When I entered the program December 26, 2018– I was a shell of the person I once was. Overcome with depression from incredible, constant migraine pain; I had slowly slipped down a very dark hill after the birth of my son in December 2017. This inpatient program was my “Hail Mary pass” that would hopefully provide me with more tools to manage this disease. But, the program did SO much more than give me new tools. It gave me a new outlook on life—and a new purpose—to help others.

I never anticipated to become such an advocate for this disease or meet the incredible people that I have through this last year. I sincerely started this blog and thought I would maybe get one person to look at it. But, if I could help one person that would be enough for me. This experience has become so much more… I have made friendships that will last a lifetime and the positive influence the chronic community has had on my life–has shaped me into the the person I am today.

So what’s next for me, and my blog—you will have to wait and see! I have a few things planned for this next year, including serving as an ambassador for Lyfebulb, where I get to flex my advocate muscle! Serving as an advocate for others, and giving back to this community that has given me so much is also one area that I plan to really focus on in 2020.

I am also opening a small business with fellow chronic migraineur and mom, Pamela from Beauty and The Migraine Beast —our little shop was a dream that was planted in our hearts from the moment we became friends a year ago thru Instagram. Our little shop, Hope and Hugs, should be open VERY soon–please give us a follow on Instagram @hopeandhugsshop for up to date information. We are SO excited to give back to the community that has given us SO much.

I want to extend a HUGE virtual HUG and THANK YOU to every single one of you who has supported me, cheered me on, and welcomed me into this chronic family. I genuinely hope that you have enjoyed a peek into my authentic, raw and unfiltered lens into my life living as a mom, wife, friend, and advocate for chronic migraine. I wholeheartedly hope that my journey has had a positive impact on YOUR journey.