All I want for Christmas

At this time of year, it's not uncommon for someone to ask me about an appropriate present for an individual who has trigeminal neuralgia or another form of neuropathic facial pain.

You may want to purchase clothing that will help shield your friend or family member's face from the painful cold. If so, you can find some helpful products here.

I don't often endorse products, but I have discovered one that helps me with pain caused by TMJD and cervical issues.

Like many people who have trigeminal and glossopharyngeal neuralgias, I have struggled with finding a pillow. For quite a while, I had a rattan pillow that helped. You can learn more about it here.  I could not find a replacement. Without it, the agony escalated.  One night when I awakened from the pain, I turned on the television and saw informercial about "MyPillow."

I've bought useless things as a result of watching cleverly marketed products via informercials. Have you? Yet this advertisement spoke to my core, and I decided to give it a try.

The first pillow I ordered was a "red" pillow, and it was actually too "tall" for me. I didn't think this could happen because the lack of support for my cervical area seems to cause the problem. Even with this pillow that didn't "fit" me, I noticed that my jaw would open when I rested my head on it, solving the problem of clenching my teeth at night. I knew I was getting close to a solution.

I called the company, and they sent me a "green" pillow. It was too shallow. I sighed and called the company again, and they moved me to "blue," the size between red and green. What really impressed me is this: they told me not to give up because they will make custom size pillows for an individual. But the blue one works just fine. It gives me the support I need and alleviates the pain that crept in night after night. I've been using it several weeks.

Just as the pillow provides support, so does its inventor. I've been charged for postage and the pillows only once. The company told me that they understand that individuals might not order the right item the first time. They send prepaid return shipping boxes and labels, making it simple for someone in pain to feel better.

A good night's sleep is a wonderful gift.

You can learn more about the MyPillow here. Although I give this item my endorsement, I am not affiliated with the company in any way. I don't receive commission from any sale that results from my recommendation.


Merry Christmas and happy holidays.

Making Mother's Day special for someone who experiences facial pain

Celebrating Mother's Day with a mom who has trigeminal neuralgia or neuropathic facial pain can be complicated. But I remember a wonderful Mother's Day that occurred when I was ill. It was fabulous in spite of the pain, my inability to chew, and the fact that I was experiencing extreme social isolation.

My daughter and her husband came to my home. I didn't have to concern myself with facing the world, about applying cosmetics, or accomplishing oral hygiene. Dan, my son-in-law, brought food with him and prepared a meal for me. At the time I had not developed an allergy to eggs, and he brought "Pour a Quiche," which he baked in my oven. No chewing was necessary because I avoided the crust. I cannot remember the side dishes or the dessert, but I recall the meal was delicious.

After brunch, the family and I settled into the living room and watched a movie. I fell asleep while they were here, comforted by their presence. Comfort may be the best gift someone can give a mother who is experiencing unrelenting pain. It might mean letting go of a traditional Mother's Day and designing one to suit a mother's needs.

Simple things can be most important to someone who has lost much. If you would like to prepare a meal for a special lady you can find some "no-chew" recipes if you go up to the Google search bar at the top of this page.

Giving Mom a reprieve from social isolation is another way to bring comfort to her life. Although she may not be able to talk much, she can listen. You might want to read to her, a favorite poem, a passage from the Bible, or a written memory of a special moment you've shared.

Because people who have trigeminal neuralgia often depend greatly on their computers and the Internet, you may want to ask Mom if hers is in good working order. If not, taking care of maintenance is an excellent gift.

Most of all, don't underrate the power of touch. She'll like it if you gently squeeze her hand. If she has a side of her face that doesn't have pain, you can place your cheek next to hers. Many people who have trigeminal neuralgia crave touch, but they fear being touched in a manner that evokes pain. Quiet comfort is best. Too much noise, whether it's loud conversation, music, or television can create further neurological distress.

Invest time into finding the best card you can. It will linger long after your visit, giving Mom a reminder of your visit.

I'll always remember the tough years and how my family made the day special, tailored to my needs. My mother made the day about me, forfeiting her own desires. I love you, Mama.


Love is stronger than pain.

We'd love it if you share your desires or gift ideas with us.

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