This June, people in Ghana are joining those around the world recognizing Migraine and Headache Awareness Month through the Shades for Migraine campaign, an international initiative led by the nonprofit Association of Migraine Disorders.
The campaign encourages people around the world to “Show You Care and Wear a Pair”—putting on a pair of sunglasses to raise migraine awareness, a misunderstood and often invisible neurological disease.
“One of the biggest barriers for people with migraine is that often, symptoms aren’t visible,” said Dr. Franchesca Fiorito, neurologist and Shades for Migraine Medical Ambassador. “That invisibility leads to skepticism, misunderstanding, and judgment.”
For Ghanaian advocate Daisy, this movement is more than symbolic—it’s deeply personal.
“My migraine journey started in September 2021,” said Daisy, “I was diagnosed with migraine without aura. I find myself in a part of the world where migraine is not seen as a disease. ‘Drink water and sleep’ is all the advice when you tell someone your head is throbbing.”
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Despite intense, disabling symptoms, Daisy’s path to diagnosis was long and tiresome. She underwent multiple scans and MRIs, often met with confusion and limited understanding.
“Until a doctor diagnosed me, I cried in pain each day,” said Daisy. Some medications offered a little relief, while other medications made things worse.
“Migraine has shattered my social life,” Daisy said. “In some cases, it has cost me relationships. I get a migraine attack without warning, and it’s difficult when people think you’re overreacting to a ‘common headache.’”
While difficult, Daisy’s experience is not unique. One billion people worldwide live with migraine. It is the second leading cause of disability globally, and the leading cause of disability for women under 50. Many around the world don’t have access to proper care, understanding, or support.
Shades for Migraine is working to change that.
“I got involved with Shades for Migraine because I wanted to be part of something,” Daisy said. “It feels good to belong to a community that understands. To connect with people who wouldn’t just tell me to ‘drink water and sleep.’ People who wouldn’t say I’m overreacting, because they know I’m going through a crisis.”
Join the movement and help make migraine visible
On June 21, Shades for Migraine invites people across the globe—to take part in a simple act of solidarity:
- SNAP a photo wearing sunglasses
- SHARE it on social media using the hashtag #ShadesForMigraine
- SHOW that migraine matters and tag @ShadesForMigraine to elevate your support
By participating, you help make migraine visible, build community, and to remind those living with migraine that they are not alone.
