I’ve gone back and forth on whether to share this post… not because I didn’t want to, but because it’s hard to put this journey into words. The past few months have been filled with uncertainty, doctor visits, misdiagnoses, medications, answered prayers, and more divine nudges than I can count. I’ve kept detailed notes along the way...partly to advocate for myself, partly to process it all...and today I felt led to put it all into one place.
If you’re walking through something similar, I hope this encourages you to trust your gut, lean into your faith, and look for the little reminders that you’re not alone. This is a long one, but it’s a big piece of my heart... and a testimony to how God shows up in the details.
While it’s been emotionally and physically exhausting at times, I’ve held tightly to a phrase that continues to center me:
"Your Strength, not my own."
February 26, 2025 — Emergency Room Visit for Migraine
I was admitted to the ER with what initially presented as a migraine, but it was unlike anything I had ever experienced. Along with the intense head pain and nausea, I also experienced blackouts, confusion, and near-total exhaustion. I could barely get out of bed to get myself ready. At the hospital, I received IV Reglan and Benadryl. I had a brief reaction to the Benadryl that lasted about five minutes. With the reaction, I felt like I needed to come out of my clothes, out of my skin, and run. It was the wildest feeling. And I also felt like I was going to pass out. I could barely breathe. Once that reaction subsided, it was pretty smooth sailing. After approximately six hours in the ER, I was discharged. However, I developed tinnitus (ringing in the ears) as I was leaving. The ER physician referred me to a neurologist to begin a more comprehensive migraine treatment plan.
Early March: Onset of Additional Neurological Symptoms
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March 6: I began feeling a tingling sensation that radiated from my right eye to my right temple, along with dull pain and pressure behind my right ear.
March 7: continuous dull pressure on right side of head
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March 8: On the way to a hockey game in Plano, I experienced alarming symptoms: dizziness, a pounding pulse in the right side of my head, numbness in my right arm and face, ear fullness, double and gray vision, balance problems, and difficulty speaking. Fearing a possible stroke, we went straight to Baylor Hospital in Plano. After a full panel of tests (EKG, chest X-ray, CT scan, urinalysis, and bloodwork), I was released with clear results. A second referral to a neurologist was issued.
March 9: stopped taking Topamax (a migraine preventative) as it made my head feel even worse.
March 11–20: Evaluations and Imaging
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March 11: I met with the nurse practitioner (NP) at the neurology office. She reviewed my symptoms, ordered bloodwork (including hormone levels), prescribed a steroid, and scheduled an MRI. She thought I might have a sinus infection or nerve issue on the right side. The steroid she prescribed should treat both.
March 14: had a good day - feeling great. No pressure but ears are still ringing.
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March 15: tons of head pressure, dizziness, blurry/grey vision, tightness in jaw on both sides, right hip and back hurts.
March 15: The bloodwork revealed hormonal imbalances, but not typical of perimenopause as initially suspected. I was advised to consult with a gynecologist promptly.
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March 17: I had emergency dental X-rays to rule out infection as a neurological trigger. Results came back clear.
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March 18: I underwent a 35-minute MRI (with and without contrast). The experience was physically uncomfortable and emotionally challenging. The head “cage” and the reflection of two technicians pointing at the screen added unnecessary anxiety. A calming visual would’ve gone a long way.
March 19: I had a bad ear ache on the right side. It hurt internally and to the touch as well. I called NP at neuro to see if I should go to urgent care to be seen. She didn't return my call.
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March 20: I received a call from the NP with alarming news: “You need brain surgery.” She informed me of suspected Trigeminal Neuralgia, excess fluid on the brain, and intracranial pressure. She prescribed a diuretic and anti-seizure medication, ordered a lumbar puncture (scheduled for April 4), and referred me to a neurosurgeon (appointment set for April 23). I expressed that my symptoms didn’t align with Trigeminal Neuralgia, but the medications were prescribed regardless. She also told me not to go to urgent care because there was nothing they could do for me. She said the "ear ache" wasn't actually an ear ache and that it was just the pressure from the Trigeminal Neuralgia.
March 25: Gynecology Evaluation
I had my first appointment with a new OB/GYN, who reviewed my hormone labs, conducted a pap smear and a pelvic sonogram. She was incredibly kind and thorough. Later that week, she called with results:
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Pap smear: Normal
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Sonogram: Enlarged ovary, fibroids, and cysts on both ovaries
She mentioned I’d be a candidate for a hysterectomy if I wanted to go that route and scheduled a follow-up sonogram for April 21 to reassess. We did this at the height of all the other medical issues and new medications so she wanted to take another look a few weeks out.
April 1: A Turning Point with the Neurologist
I finally met the neurologist herself, who reviewed my MRI and refuted the NP’s previous assessment:
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No nerve-to-artery contact → No Trigeminal Neuralgia. They were in close proximity but didn't seem to be touching. Plus, no symptoms were present for this condition.
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No need for surgery or a lumbar puncture
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Advised me to cancel the lumbar puncture
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Initiated a 3.5-week weaning process off the anti-seizure and diuretic medications
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Prescribed a new migraine-specific medication (rizatriptan)
Discontinued my migraine preventative (Topamax)
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Referred me to an ENT to evaluate ear-related symptoms
April 4–16: Additional Specialist Visits
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April 4: I had my first mammogram in a peaceful, nearby town. The technician was excellent...professional and calming. Results (received April 9): All clear, though noted dense breast tissue. A follow-up may be recommended.
April 16: ENT appointment revealed a right ear infection and minor skin irritation inside the ear. Audiology tests were normal. I was prescribed oral and topical antibiotics and released with no major concerns beyond the infection. This confirms the NP at the neurologist was wrong in telling me I didn't have an ear infection (without any assessment).
April 21–23: Follow-Ups and Neurosurgeon Consultation
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April 21: Second sonogram with my gynecologist to reassess ovary size and cysts during a more stable medication period. The size of one ovary did decrease a bit but the fibroids and cysts are the same. My Endometrial lining was also "thick" and she scheduled a biopsy.
April 23: Consulted with the neurosurgeon, whose office was decorated with “Top Surgeon” accolades...an immediate comfort. After reviewing my MRI and hearing my full history, he confirmed that surgery was not needed and that I was not experiencing Trigeminal Neuralgia. He spent time showing us what surgery would involve if it ever became necessary and put both my husband and me at ease. He recommended I see a new neurologist and an ophthalmologist, and placed referrals for both. From the moment we met him, we knew we were in good hands. So, if surgery is imminent in the future, I am at peace.
Praise GOD!!!! Thank you, Lord.
May 12-15th - More doctor appointments:
- May 12 – Ophthalmologist Visit: I saw the ophthalmologist for a full range of vision tests, including dilation and a pressure test. Her office walls were also plastered with accolades of "Top Eye Surgeon" for four years running. Thank you, Lord! You have been so faithful in putting me in the best hands. Everything looked good in terms of vision...I passed all the tests without issue...but the pressure test showed signs of ocular hypertension. My left eye measured at 27 and my right eye at 32. Based on this, my doctor believes I may be in the early stages of pre-glaucoma. Thankfully, there's no vision loss at this point, which means we likely caught it early. She prescribed a nightly eye drop, and I’ll return on June 2nd to see if my pressure has decreased by 30%. If not, we’ll reassess and begin a new treatment plan. I’m thankful we’re acting early and proactively. My Dr. is fairly certain that a lot of my neuro issues/pressure I am feeling is caused by this.
- May 14 – New Primary Care Physician: I met my new primary care doctor and immediately felt like this could be a great fit. We reviewed my full medical history and ran labs to check on my thyroid, which has been a concern in the past. He was very thorough and kind of old school, which I appreciated. Reminded me of my primary care doctor growing up. He wants to see me back in
- May 15 – Lab Results: Good news...my thyroid levels are within the normal range! One less thing to have to worry about!
May 19-23rd - Gynecology appts and calls
- May 19th: Endometrial Biopsy - I had an endometrial biopsy with Dr. Brooke. It was definitely a tough appointment, but Dr. Brooke commented on my high pain tolerance...she even asked, “You delivered your baby without an epidural, right?” That made me smile. Yes, it hurt and was probably one of the most painful things I have endured, but I managed to push through by repeating the words, "Your strength, not my own, Lord." That’s been a grounding reminder lately. God has brought me through so much, and I trust He’ll continue to carry me forward.
- May 23: A Call I’ll Never Forget...
When I picked up, I heard her say in that familiar, upbeat tone, “Hey girl, it’s Dr. Brooke.” The lightness in her voice told me everything I needed to know before she even said the words. She was calling with good news.
And she confirmed it...my biopsy came back negative. I do not have uterine cancer. So many emotions...relief, joy, and overwhelming gratitude washed over me all at once. Praise God! He is so incredibly faithful, and He has carried me through every step of this journey. I’m beyond grateful for His goodness, even in the waiting.
That same day, we packed up and headed out on a camping trip to the beautiful Texas Hill Country. The timing couldn’t have been more perfect. I woke up Friday morning with a clear head...no pressure, no fog...something I hadn’t felt in weeks. It was such a gift. The ringing in my ears was still there, but if I stay busy enough, I can usually tune it out.
The entire weekend felt like a deep breath for my soul. I was able to truly enjoy time with family and friends, surrounded by nature, laughter, and peace. I didn’t just go on the trip... I felt present the whole time. For someone who has spent so many days not feeling like themselves, that in itself felt like a miracle.
Thank you, Jesus, for moments like this — for healing, for rest, and for joy after the storm.
May 30, 2025 // Neurology Appointment at a New Office
I had my first appointment with a new neurologist, and it was such a relief. He was kind, patient, and incredibly thorough. After running a series of tests and reviewing my current medications, we had a thoughtful discussion about what was working, and what wasn’t.
He prescribed a new migraine preventative, Qulipta, along with a new medication for active migraines, Zolmitriptan. He even sent me home with several samples of Qulipta so I could begin treatment right away. I’ll follow up with him again in a few months, but I left this appointment feeling hopeful and heard...something I didn't feel with the other neurologist.
June 2nd: Follow-up ophthalmology appointment
PRAISE GOD for another miracle!
It’s been a season filled with difficult moments, unanswered questions, and more appointments than I can count. Yet through it all, I continue to lean on a strength beyond myself. I’ve learned to advocate harder, listen to my intuition, and surround myself with compassionate and competent care providers.
If you’re still reading...thank you. Your support, prayers, and kind words have meant the world. I’ll continue to share updates as they come.
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