Forgotten on the 4th

By Lisa Robin Benson

Last Updated:

1 min read

I wanted to share my story about a 4th of July not too long ago where a migraine attack led me to be sequestered away and forgotten...

I'd love to hear from you -- do you have a similar story? Are you able to attend 4th of July festivities or do you opt out? Leave a comment below!

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cash80221 Member

I haven’t been able to view any fireworks in 20 years, even on television. I don’t usually plan to attend any functions which include loud music, the noise of enclosed crowds or bright/flashing lights. Pretty boring, huh?
1. Lisa Robin Benson Contributor
 
 Hi Cash80221! Maybe “boring” but that’s better than a spike in pain! Though in my opinion the things in life that are interesting aren’t always loud and crowded—but I am an introvert with migraine. 😀 Thanks for your comment! -Lisa
nonster59 Member

I used to love the 4th of July with family and friends, the parade, the firecrackers, snakes, smoke bombs going all day...but not in the last 12 years. I can’t handle any of the about-including reveling family and friends. My husband does for awhile to make a presence but is back in a couple of hours. All the time he is gone, I wish I was at the bbq with them all. Damn migraines!
1. Lisa Robin Benson Contributor
 
 Hi Nonster! I’m sorry you have to miss out as well! It can be really sad to be unable to do things we used to enjoy. On an unrelated note though, I have to ask about what you mean by snakes? That is something I haven’t seen on the 4th, here in Massachusetts! 😀 Lisa
marciacooper Member

My story revolves around recovering from a back surgery, not a migraine. I promised my cousin I would attend her son’s wedding in New Orleans (I live in New Jersey). I still was not feeling well from a third back surgery, however, my husband and I flew to New Orleans to keep my promise to my cousin. She knew I was not feeling well but was very happy I came. We were there for three days and I tried my best to be involved in as many of the activities going on as I possibly could. Over the course of the three days my cousin probably paid, maybe, one half hour of time talking to me and my husband. Instead, she spent the rest of her time with her friends from home that she sees all the time! Needless to say, I have not talked to her since. That was two and a half years ago.
luluhead Member

It used to not affect me. But anymore, I HAVE to opt out! It's not fair to me OR my family. Also, I have a dog who absolutely goes into severe anxiety attacks..so that also impacts me. Arials we legalized here inn Utah a few years back, and ALL my neighbors seem to think they MUST BUY OUT THE STAND! Utah also celebrates a Statr holiday on the 24th, so Fireworks are legal for another 3 day window! ‍♀️
uncomfortablynumb Member

I have missed 4th of July, Thanksgiving, family dinners and various other fun activities. I made the decision last year to stop dreading what might happen on a holiday and allow myself the freedom to have fun on any random day just because I felt good on THAT day. So, impulsively random Tuesday nights out with family and running away from work for a Thursday afternoon date... we make the days work for us.
1. Joanna Bodner Community Admin
 
 I completely agree with this @UncomfortablyNumb! This is such a great attitude & VERY important perspective to have! Wishing you many more "impulsively random" good days and may today be one of them! 😀