Headache Camp and the use of Medical Ketamine
Medical ketamine infusions have been the basis of my chronic migraine treatment plan since 2013. I fondly refer to the Jefferson Headache Clinic (part of Thomas Jefferson University) as “Headache Camp.” I’ve compiled every interview, podcast, and article I’ve written on my experience. And yes, I do still travel to Philadelphia at least once a year from Los Angeles for in-patient ketamine infusions. I was discharged last week from my 13th inpatient infusion at Jefferson.
Podcast
In 2020, the Association of Migraine Disorders asked my headache specialist at Jefferson, Dr. Stephanie Nahas-Geiger, and me to talk about ketamine for chronic migraine on their podcast Spotlight on Migraine. It was pretty special to be able to do this with my own health care provider.
Ketamine: An Alternative for Difficult-to-Treat Chronic Migraine- Spotlight on Migraine S2:Ep11
How a street drug can help reset your brain
I probably get the most questions about my use of ketamine. Honestly, it’s been the basis of my treatment plan (well, ketamine AND advocacy). The following articles were originally written for Migraine.com.
Ketamine for Migraine Management – the basics and history of Ketamine
Headache Camp – My first in-patient experience was actually for lidocaine, which I didn’t tolerate well.
Headache Camp Round 2 – This is the start of my use of ketamine in a hospital setting.
A look from the outside
Headache Camp: From Mom’s Seat – My mom eloquently writes about what it’s like for her to take care of her grown child while I’m getting ketamine infusions.
Patient Perspective: Ketamine – I talked to Terah Kuykendall, a patient opinion leader who discusses the use of ketamine for chronic migraine.
Headache Camp #5 – Advocating for Yourself – How to make the most out of a ketamine infusion.
Advocate on the Loose!
I’m on a plane home to LA reflecting on the last three weeks I spent on the east coast. Several opportunities came my way and of course it all happened at the same time! I am grateful I was asked to be part of events focused on community building, advocacy, education and collaboration.
Medical Monday- Changing Insurance Carriers
I find it important to share the trials and struggles of dealing with insurance companies and doctor bills. It can become a job in and of itself. For those in chronic pain, we only have so much energy to deal with this crap. I feel like they assume you’re not going to fight them and…
Yes, I Wear Makeup in the Hospital
Makeup, four-inch heels, power suits, cocktail dresses, regular hair and nail maintenance. That was me in the professional world. Client meetings, networking events and charity functions. They all require the professional look.