Katie MacDonald, Director of Operations with Miles for Migraine hosted one of the organization’s race events on Saturday, February 3, at the University of South Florida.
Before the race, MacDonald shared her story about suffering from migraines since she was 12 years old, and the need to increase headache clinics around the world.
She mentioned that USF holds a Headache Center where research continues and where patient care is provided to those with migraines, and how this was a reason why USF is a location for the race.
Miles for Migraine is not only a race event/fundraiser, but also a gathering for support and awareness about migraines, headaches, and neurological disorders. The event is partnered with Red Point Productions and hosts other racing events throughout the country, Dan LG, director of the company, assisted vendors, speakers, and volunteers throughout the morning.
Before the race, newcomers and former participants connected–sharing their experiences with the disorder, leading to personal blocks in life.
While retrieving race packets, Kathy Pecora and Tilete Smith met for the first time and discussed hardships in life, and connected to migraines and neurological disorders. They conversated freely… Smith mentioned, “A mental disability is not visible as someone in a wheelchair, and that this stigma should change…my husband was frowned upon in a parking lot for taking a handicapped spot when he suffers from PTSD—just because his disability was not noticeable.” Pecora bonded with Smith and shared her experience with a neurological disorder that leads to depression. Although Pecora suffers from chronic pain, she continues to stay strong—not only for herself but her family. Pecora has helped her stepson from elementary school to college where he recently graduated from the University of Central Florida. She remembers when his teachers in grade school doubted his success in school due to a neurological disorder. However, Pecora continued to support him and even quit her job at the time, so he could reach his full potential.
Both Emily Shoffstall and Gelcys Castaneda—speakers of the event– shared their stories about their pain and experiences with migraines openly to all participants and supporters before the race. Shoffstall began having migraines after a car accident and suffering a brain injury when she was in her 20s. Castaneda spoke about having surgery on her spine to reduce the number of migraines she had in a year. She added that her son who began having migraines at age 8, now at age 11 is receiving treatment because there are more clinics and medicine to aid children with this disorder.
Stacy Feuerherdt 