Welcome to Golden Graine

Hot Off the Presses!

Welcome to Golden Graine! The name of my blog is a play on my last name and slang for migraine (so don’t forget the “e” at the end of ‘Graine). When I had to stop working at the age of 32 due to intractable chronic migraine disease, I found purpose in writing. I realized there was this great big community of people who are going through the same struggle.

I’ve been writing for Migraine.com, the largest online migraine community, for a few years now. This opportunity has given me so much more than I ever could have imagined. At first it was about trying to work through my own struggles in finding a cause or a miracle treatment. When I accepted that this crazy illness was going to stick around for a while, my writing began to morph into educating those who were just diagnosed.

Representing Migraine and Pain Communities

I also came to realize that I am not only part of the migraine community, which includes 36 million Americans, I am also a member of the pain community, which includes 100 million Americans. Both populations often get overlooked, stigmatized and misunderstood. I want to be part of a movement that changes this.

I consider myself an advocate for migraine and pain patients. I lobby annually on Capitol Hill with Headache on the Hill, fundraise by running at Miles for Migraine races, attend conferences where headache specialists share their latest research and serve as an ambassador for the US Pain Foundation.

I’m still amazed that people outside my family read what I write. The most rewarding part has been the feedback, questions and interactions with others who have migraine disease and deal with chronic pain from a variety of backgrounds. When I started writing I thought I knew everything, but I learn something new everyday from fellow patients.

Living a Fulfilled Life with Chronic Migraine & Pain

My goal with this blog is to expand what I share on Migraine.com (for which I will continue to write!). My motto is “Living a Fulfilled Life with Chronic Migraine & Pain.” Aren’t we all trying to do that? Some days it’s easier than others. I’m not afraid to share the good and the bad.

Valuing Your Voice

I’m not alone in this fight to manage my illness. The Golden Graine blog is a platform for you as well. I encourage you to share your migraine or pain story, submit works of art to be highlighted and engage in thoughtful conversations. I want to celebrate your victories and give you a place to vent when times are rough. Use the Contact page to send me your art or story, in whatever form you want to express yourself.

Writing and connecting with others has given me purpose when chronic migraines completely changed my life. Golden Graine is just one more way to reach others in the same boat. I hope you enjoy and I encourage you to interact with all who gather here. Likely you’re dealing with something similar and can relate.

Cheers to a new venture!

-Katie