Children and Trigeminal Neuralgia
I wanted to share the remarkable story of Grace, the 11-year-old girl diagnosed with TN.
Grace’s Journey
It’s very rare for young children to be diagnosed with trigeminal neuralgia, a condition primarily known for affecting adults. Yet, as members of the Trigeminal Neuralgia Association (TNA), we are deeply moved by the case of Grace, an 11-year-old from Monifieth, Scotland. Her battle with this debilitating disease highlights its unpredictability and severity.
Early Symptoms
Grace’s ordeal began in 2022 with a tingling sensation below her right eye, which rapidly escalated into severe, disruptive attacks. Her father, Garry Miller, describes these episodes as “electric shock-type attacks”. Highlighting the extreme nature of her pain: “The pain is so severe that even crying makes it worse,” he notes. This statement paints a vivid picture of Grace’s daily struggles and emphasises the complexities involved in diagnosing and managing this condition in children.
Family Support
Garry’s reflection on their family’s experience points to the broader implications for support: “All we can do is be there for her, sit beside her and hold her hand,” he says. Such simple yet profound support is vital and reflects the broader role that our community can play in providing comfort to those in need.
Inspiring Actions
Grace’s story will have a huge impact on our charity, especially through shared experiences like those of Molly Dyer, who underwent Microvascular Decompression (MVD) surgery as a teenager. She has been a source of inspiration, having addressed our conference in London, underscoring the resilience needed to fight this condition.
Fundraising Efforts
Grace has responded to her challenges with remarkable initiative, organising a fundraiser at her school. She has been making friendship bracelets to raise funds for us at Trigeminal Neuralgia Association UK, which her father proudly shares. This solidarity from such a young member of our community is not just inspiring; it serves as a call to action for all of us.
Expanding Our Support: The Young Person’s Gift Pack
Given Grace’s heroic efforts, we are motivated to do more for our younger members. We are introducing a ‘Young Person’s Gift Pack,’ designed to provide comfort and resources tailored to our paediatric members. This pack will include educational materials about TN and personalised messages of support from our community. We must ensure that young sufferers like Grace and her family feel supported and connected. Our Joint Chairs, Mr Sinan Barazi and Dr Giorgio Lambru have updated our young people’s guide for children with TN. Please click the button below.
TNFP: What We Need to Do as a Charity
Grace’s story reminds us why our work is so crucial, and the difference we can make in the lives of those affected by TN and facial pain, irrespective of their age. As we unite to increase our fundraising activities, expand our research into TN, and ensure that these families receive the resources and community support they critically need, Grace’s upcoming school event is very moving. I feel truly humbled by her incredible efforts.
Our Mission
TNFP aims to foster a future where no child has to endure such intense pain alone.
Warmest regards,
Aneeta
Aneeta Prem MBE
CEO
Young People’s Guide by Mr Sinan Barazi & Dr Giorgio Lambru
Monifieth girl, 11, suffers ‘electric shock attacks’ on face due to rare condition.
“Supporting research for Trigeminal Neuralgia (TN) is crucial. By contributing to Grace’s Campaign, you’re doing more than just donating; you’re playing a key role in making a real difference. All funds raised will be used to support children suffering from this condition, reinforcing our commitment to their brighter future.”
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