Living proof: Paula's story of Daily Headache, Radical Acceptance & Resilience

Your Migraine Story Matters - Series 2 Episode 10

Amber Horrox

and

Paula Kamen

Jul 18, 2025

Transcript

Today’s guest, Paula, has lived with daily persistent headache for 34 years.

Over these decades, she has tried every kind of medication and treatment offered; conventional and alternative alike. She even underwent surgery, which, heartbreakingly, only worsened her pain.

In the midst of her long search for relief, Paula wrote a powerful memoir - a story of perseverance, radical acceptance, and deep patience in the face of relentless pain.

In this episode, Paula opens up about how she has learned to live well - not in spite of all she’s endured, but because of it.

She generously shares the practices that sustain her in times of difficulty, what resilience looks like for her, and her top tips for anyone walking a similar path.

We also explore the broader history of migraine and pain management. And how, despite decades passing, not much has truly changed.

The rates of disability keep rising, underscoring just how urgent it is to share our stories now more than ever.

Paula, your book - and your presence here today - is living proof that:

Reflective prompts to explore after listening:

What aspect of Paula’s story most resonates with you?
How have you learned to adapt or soften into life with chronic pain or illness?
In what ways has your condition shaped your identity, for better or for worse?
What does “living well” look like for you right now, even in the midst of difficulty?

In the first instance, I’d encourage you to journal on these prompts. At the same time, I’d also love to hear of your reflections in the comments. Meet me there?