The headaches were blinding and debilitating and were a regular part of my life for decades.

Once a month or so there would be an uh-oh moment when I could feel it coming on.

Extra-strength Tylenol was the only chance for some relief and for days and nights on end I would fix on the clock for the four hours recommended in-between doses to pass so I could gulp down two more and be able to somewhat function.

Six years ago I was divorced. I can’t remember the last time I had a headache.

When I was finally free, both physically and psychically, I wanted and needed as much distance as I could possibly get.

Changing the last name I had taken on in marriage was an obvious and exciting way to do this— a rebirth!