International Trigeminal Neuralgia Day of Awareness - St. John's, NL

Trigeminal Neuralgia (TN) is a neuropathic disorder that is characterized by episodes of intense pain in the face, originating from the trigeminal nerve. The pain is so intense that the condition has been known as Suicide headaches. The trigeminal nerve is a mixed cranial nerve responsible for sensory data such as tactition (pressure), thermoception (temperature), and nociception (pain) originating from the face above the jawline; it is also responsible for the motor function of the muscles of mastication, the muscles involved in chewing but not facial expression. It is estimated that 1 in 15000 people in the world suffer from this condition. It is more common in females than males.

Last year, the first ever International Day of Awareness for TN was launched and events were held all over the world, including one in Cavendish, NL, in honour of two locals who suffer from this condition. There will be a small commemorative event in St. John's, on Tuesday Oct 7, 2014, at 12 noon, at the picnic bench park area of Kent's Pond, just out back of the Confederation Building parking lot.

The event will be hosted by Jennifer McCreath, a well-known local political and social activist, and it will feature a keynote address by Kim Noftall, also of St. John's, who suffers from Trigeminal Neuralgia.

Participants are encouraged to wear teal blue, as this is the official colour of facial pain. McCreath and Noftall will be available to speak with the media after the event. All are welcome to attend.

For more information:

Jennifer McCreath
709-753-9529
info@jennifermccreath.com
twitter: jenn_mccreath

Facebook Event: https://www.facebook.com/events/528385247304897

Additional Resourcecs:

Trigeminal Neuralgia Support Group - based in Cavendish, NL

https://www.facebook.com/TrigeminalNeuralgiaSupportNewfoundlandLabrador

Trigeminal Neuralgia Association of Canada

http://www.tnac.org/

International Petition for World Health Organization

http://www.tnnme.com/

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