I just thought we should move this to misc because it's more of a leisure thing, less of a medical thing.

Anyone else want to toss out some ideas for a bunch of us meeting in Las Vegas or Chicago or another place some time next year?

I think Billy Ray is in the hospital for 3 days with a DHE treatment so he'll be out of the loop for a while.

I think his original post was something like "What do you think".

Sorry, kind of scattered right now.

• RE: Expanding on Billy Ray's Group Vacation,lesherb1, 01:42 PM, Aug-01-05
  • RE: Expanding on Billy Ray's Group Vacation,ruth, 02:43 PM, Aug-01-05
    • RE: Expanding on Billy Ray's Group Vacation,Toby, 07:48 PM, Aug-01-05
      • RE: Expanding on Billy Ray's Group Vacation,Billy Ray, 05:53 PM, Aug-02-05
• RE: Expanding on Billy Ray's Group Vacation,genxgirl, 02:30 PM, Aug-03-05
  • RE: Expanding on Billy Ray's Group Vacation,LynelleH, 03:27 PM, Aug-03-05
    • RE: Expanding on Billy Ray's Group Vacation,mianna, 05:44 PM, Aug-03-05
      • RE: Expanding on Billy Ray's Group Vacation,LynelleH, 05:47 PM, Aug-03-05
        • RE: Expanding on Billy Ray's Group Vacation,Billy Ray, 07:40 PM, Aug-03-05
          • RE: Expanding on Billy Ray's Group Vacation,magicmom, 07:56 AM, Aug-04-05
            • RE: Expanding on Billy Ray's Group Vacation,lesherb1, 09:54 AM, Aug-04-05
              • RE: Expanding on Billy Ray's Group Vacation,crt, 06:58 PM, Aug-04-05
            • RE: Expanding on Billy Ray's Group Vacation,guatmom, 10:00 AM, Aug-04-05
              • RE: Expanding on Billy Ray's Group Vacation,LynelleH, 10:36 AM, Aug-04-05
                • RE: Expanding on Billy Ray's Group Vacation,magicmom, 06:15 PM, Aug-04-05
                  • RE: Expanding on Billy Ray's Group Vacation,Billy Ray, 06:39 PM, Aug-04-05
• RE: Expanding on Billy Ray's Group Vacation,genxgirl, 06:09 AM, Aug-05-05
  • RE: Expanding on Billy Ray's Group Vacation,Billy Ray, 06:31 PM, Aug-05-05
• RE: Expanding on Billy Ray's Group Vacation,Lilywhite, 07:03 AM, Aug-06-05
• RE: Expanding on Billy Ray's Group Vacation,moogle77, 01:40 AM, Aug-08-05
  • RE: Expanding on Billy Ray's Group Vacation,Billy Ray, 02:43 AM, Aug-08-05
• RE: Expanding on Billy Ray's Group Vacation,genxgirl, 07:52 AM, Aug-08-05
  • RE: Expanding on Billy Ray's Group Vacation,Anna's Mom, 11:42 AM, Aug-08-05
• RE: Expanding on Billy Ray's Group Vacation,crt, 02:19 PM, Aug-08-05
  • RE: Expanding on Billy Ray's Group Vacation,Billy Ray, 02:08 AM, Aug-09-05
    • RE: Expanding on Billy Ray's Group Vacation,moogle77, 06:45 PM, Aug-09-05
      • RE: Expanding on Billy Ray's Group Vacation,Toby, 04:03 PM, Aug-10-05

I have always contended that meeting everyone would be a fantastic idea. If you decide to do it at Disney World, let me know! Sorry, I don't fly ;-(

Łeslie

I seem to remember this was going to happen once before but I don't think anything came of it did it?

I wouldn't be able to make it but it would be great if some of you could get together and take pictures to post here!

I hope Billy Ray will be feeling a lot better after his treatment.

I thoroughly enjoy meeting other migraineurs. We are the best people one could hope to find. I'm sure I could get a day or two off work for such an event.

Plus I live on the West Coast but have never been to Vegas. Sounds like a great excuse, er, opportunity to go there. Count me in.

toby

Hi Everyone. Well just back from hospital. My Dr.

and Nuro have decided to send me to Mayo. As for

the get together lets see what ideas come in

then I think a good goal will be to decide on

where and when by Nov.10 Then we will just set it

up. I am still thinking Chicago in July 2006 and

Vegas in August 2006. If all this goes well maybe

the next year go to say Disney World and or Vegas

I think since we are so spred out we should try

2 places. Maybe keep Vegas every year and move

the other from say Chicago,Florida,New York etc..

I know this is getting way to far ahead so for now

let's just plan on Vegas and Chicago. I know some

of the hotels will base a special rate on how many

come. So for now let's all talk about it.

Everything is open to talk about or change. But

the goal is have places and dates set by mid

november. Like I said before any final choices

we will ask for Ronda's advise. Thanks alot. Billy

I'm in...no matter where or when.

And Leslie: I can't fly either, but I'll brave it for this...so will you, because I'll be dragging you by your ears!

This is so cool. The enthusiasm is great.

I mentioned it to my husband, and he will be staying home. I will come solo and ready for a great visit and some fun times.

You go Joelle!!! I was thinking when I read that Leslie wouldn't fly...."what would a gettogether be if we can't meet Leslie!".

So Joelle...go get her!

Billy Ray:

I sent you 2 emails. I was wondering if either you or Liliana got them?

Lynelle

Thanks Lynelle. Got your emails and sent you one.Thanks so much for the help.I agree with you

guys -- I hope Leslie can go. I hope everyone can.But we know it will hard for some. I think

we are off to a good start. Thanks Billy

Billy Ray, I mentioned this idea to my hubby.

We both stopped, thought a moment and then started laughing.

Not laughing at the idea, just the thought of a bunch of migrainers going to LasVegas. Never been there, so my impression is one of bright, flashing neon lights, noises to beat the band, and people chain smoking.

We both had a mental image of the manager of the hotel.

If somebody asked for one of us all he would have to say is, "Over there. The group of people with dark sunglasses on and shielding their eyes, holding their noses and covering their ears."

It's very nice that all of you want me to come to Vegas but I really cannot do it. I could never do that to my husband. He doesn't even consider flying when we go on our trips north to visit family because of me.

You don't want me to have a panic attack. It is not a pretty sight and it can mess me up for months.

I will certainly be with all of you in spirit, though. Whoever goes must take lots and lots of pictures so I can upload them to our album!

Łedslie

>It's very nice that all of
>you want me to come
>to Vegas but I really
>cannot do it. I
>could never do that to
>my husband. He doesn't
>even consider flying when we
>go on our trips north
>to visit family because of
>me.
>
>You don't want me to have
>a panic attack. It
>is not a pretty sight
>and it can mess me
>up for months.
>
>I will certainly be with all
>of you in spirit, though.
>Whoever goes must take lots
>and lots of pictures so
>I can upload them to
>our album!
>
>Łedslie

Leslie,

How about the train? Yes it would take a long time, but it could be really fun - dining car and all.

I wish I could go, but I probably won't have the money. Someone will have to keep those of us who can't attend updated on the fun you will be having.

Work of caution: My sister got the first migraine of her life in Vegas. I think it was the lights or noise or something in all the action going on. It hit her instantly and she had to be taken out of the casino on a gerney to an ambulance!! Not one of her fondest memories. Plus we were flying home that day and she had to make the trip from Vegas to Michigan. She did great, don't know what the docs gave her, but she managed to sleep most of the way home.

Luckily I didn't get even the slightest headache!

Moral of my story...bring sunglasses, you may need them even inside!

Guatmom

LAST EDITED ON Aug-04-05 AT 10:45 AM (CMT)

All very valid points regarding the chaos in a casino.

And of course those who aren't attending will be there in spirit. I have a few ideas about putting together little folders that have our profiles (and maybe pictures) in them to help us get better acquainted. This would include anyone who wanted to be in the folder, whether you attend or wait for the "tour to make your city next time".

Also, with mention of the busy and "trigger-prone" casino environment, I thought we could all pitch in and get a hospitality room for one day so we have a haven in which to visit.

Is anyone interested in planning the Chicago trip? There were a few people who mentioned it would be easier than a Las Vegas trip for them.

Is anyone interested in planning the Las Vegas trip? Billy and I would be glad to have others help with this.

So far we have 10 people and some members of their families saying Las Vegas is a good idea.

I will be introducing a survey to help us get started. Some of the hotels book 10-12 months in advance. I'm not saying we should book rooms right now, but it would help planning if we knew what everyone's preferences are.

In case you couldn't tell, I am looking forward to this very much!!!

Edit: magicmom said: Not laughing at the idea, just the thought of a bunch of migrainers going to LasVegas. Never been there, so my impression is one of bright, flashing neon lights, noises to beat the band, and people chain smoking.

So true of a lot of the older casinos. But some of the newer resort-style ones are different. The noise and the smoke are a given, but oh, once you get to the spa or the pool (in the shade) or your room, it's so nice!

Of course, I'm sure that there are many relaxing places in Las Vegas. It's just that my very first thought of a migraine group was as I described. Made both my husband and me chuckle.

By the way, "Ocean's Eleven" is one of my all time favorite movies. Would love to see that big fountain at the...Belajio???....in person.

I had to laugh to. The good thing about Vegas is the hotels are very cool ( temp). There are so many things one can do just in one hotel.

We also plan to look into what Dr.s are good and would be there for anyone in need. I know this has never been done. But maybe we could open some

eyes. Lynelle has some great ideas about contacting some drug companys to see if they have interest in coming and helping. We still hope to

keep it simple and fun. Please help us by filling out the survey. Any help or ideas would be great. Billy

I have to chime in here and say: Vegas is not a good place for migraineurs.

Not only are the lights and smells a horrific trigger nightmare, but so is the environment. It will be 105 degrees outside and 60 degrees in the casinos and anyplace else indoors.

I get almighty nauseous being in that refrigerated, recycled, dry as hell air, and if that were not bad enough, the change from cold casino to hot outside is enough to put half of us over the migraine edge.

Let's not forget also that this is a dessert and that we'd need nuclear strength sunglasses as well.

I love vegas aand I know how to handle it now w/o going over the edge, but I am not sure that all of us who want to go are so well aquainted with the migraine pitfalls of this destination.

I think Chicago is a much better locale for this, but again, I'd go anywhere.

Hi everyone. We got thinking about our Vegas trip and because of schools starting in late Aug. we will need

to do it in early Aug. So since we are doing Vegas early Aug 2006 -- what would some think if we have our Chicago trip say in March. On a weekend so kids could go. Chicago hotel rates

will be reasonable. Maybe meet on a Sat. Sun. Keep it simple -- give the people on the east and central USA a chance to meet.

Billy

The best place to meet would be someplace central with a major airport hub and cheap airfare. I think Denver would be a cool local. Airfare is reasonable and the area is b-e-a-u-tiful.

I was just at Vegas for the first time back in May. I agree with Genxgirl that Vegas is NOT a great place for migraineurs... There are too many lights, noises, heat, sun, and people.

I think it is a great idea for a get together trip, but I won't be going to Vegas. I guess I'll take the other option if I can.

Hugs,
Tracy
~~~~~~~~~~
http://www.mooglesthoughts.blogspot.com

The concerns about Vegas are all good points. Like I said before nothing is written in stone.

I agree and know about the heat and dry air. My only thoughts for Vegas is lots to do - for those

familys looking for vacation get away. The air fare to Vegas is the cheapest of most major cities.

The hotels are so large and they have so much to offer you could spend your entire trip in one

and not have to go out. And yes there are lights and noise but I still think any airport and hotel

will be just about as bad. I know some of us might have to spend our time mostly in our rooms

because of our health and some places may not be good for the weather or noise. But keep in mind

Chicago in Aug. can be worse with the high hunidity and the traffic can be unreal. There

will be good and bad to all places. That is why I thank everyone for their ideas. You know I have

got emails about doing Vegas and or Chicago in the spring. There are some good points to that.

Also we have had lot's of people who want Vegas because they are looking do a vacation with it.

So let's keep hearing all ideas. We also need a big enough place that will work with us due to

our health. I know we may have several who want to come but will have to cancel because of health

needs the week or day of the trip. I wish we could go everywhere and make things work for

everyone but there is no way we can do that.We really will do our best to listen to all.From

what I have heard from everyone it makes me think we should move this around in the future. But I

still feel the best thing to do is plan on 2 places first and see how it goes. We have to keep

the first 2 simple and learn from them.So that is why I thought let's just make this a 2 day 1

night plan with the offer for those who want to add a few days. I really will try to do my best

and please know I in know way want this trip to hurt any one or their feelings. So let's keep

things going. If we do not keep this going it will not get done. And maybe this first one or 2

will not work for some but at least it will be a start. We have to start somewhere. If we try to

do 4 or 5 places in 1 year -- it will never work.Two places may be to much for our first

year but I think we should at least talk about it. This could be a lot of work and planning

but if we all talk and work together and like I keep saying -- keep it simple I know we can have

some fun. I care some much for everyone here I just think it would be so great to do this and

see some of us. Again thanks for the help that has been offered. I have had a bad pain month

but will do my best to not only keep this going but have places (1 or 2) and dates for everyone

by Dec.1 this year. That will give all time to plan and work the trip or trips out. Thanks Billy

LAST EDITED ON Aug-08-05 AT 07:57 AM (CMT)

i agree with lilywhite...denver sounds lovely, and it is pretty much dead center of the US.

other thoughts:
Niagara Falls (beautiful in the summer)
Disney World (in the spring or fall so it's not brutally hot)
Asheville NC (beautiful mountainous resorty type area)

Billy:

Thanks for your efforts.

I will come to the Chicago destination for sure.

Even if it's a small group in Chicago, it will be worth it.

Cheryl

I understand the financial incentive for Vegas. But if folks are going that far west, they might as well go all the way and go to one of the west coast's beautiful cities like San Franciso, Portland, Seattle, or my choice, Vancouver, BC (I'm a closet Canadian).

But then, I don't rate a vote anyway, since I don't have the money to travel.

Denver sounds like a good choice geographically.

crt please you do rate a vote. All ideas are welcomed. Even if someone can not go now -- you

are a part of this and we do want to hear from you. Like I said before -- let's just be sure to

have the 2006 trip or trips. Then let's begin to talk about how to set up a plan to work out any

future trips. Thank you for your post.

I spoke with my husband and he votes for Vegas because there is more for him to do.

I wasn't thinking that our non-migraineur spouse/partner may not want to be involved in our activities.

Billy, thank you SO VERY much for planning all this. You are doing a great job!

Hugs,
Tracy
~~~~~~~~~~
http://www.mooglesthoughts.blogspot.com

If we're taking votes, and I think we should ultimately, I would vote for Chicago beacuse O'hare is such a airways hub and I used to live there for eight years and know my way around and have some friends there still.

The downside is that the air quality in the Loop is horrific. Bus fumes dominate the atmosphere and can be a problem as a migraine trigger for some...like me.

Then again I can run into migraine triggers just about anywhere. Denver might be better in a way.

Don't know, I 've only been to the airport and never stayed there.

I live close to Seattle and it certainly would be a very nice place to visit for all and pretty migraine friendly by and large, but might take two separate flights for some to get to.

I'd go anywhere really to meet my friends from Ronda's. I'd still vote for Chicago though pending other options I haven't considered.

It is pretty centrally located demographically and easy to get lots of flights to from almost anywhere. Of course Denver is also pretty easily accessible by air.

For me, the nod still goes to Chicago due to my familiarity with Chi-town.

toby