Suggestions to alleviate migraine headaches: create channels for blessing through addition in Jewish observance, medical consultation and possible solutions
By the Grace of G-d
10th of Sivan, 5725
Brooklyn, N.Y.
Mr. E. . .
Middlesex, England
Greeting and Blessing:
I received your letter of May 31st, in which you write that your wife has been suffering from acute migraine headaches, etc.
If you will write to me her Hebrew name, and also her mother’s Hebrew name, as is customary in such a case, I will remember her in prayer for an improvement in health. You ask for any suggestion that might alleviate the suffering of your wife. First and foremost, I would like to emphasize that inasmuch as all blessings come from G-d, it is necessary to make the channels and vessels to receive G-d's blessings. By this I mean making additional efforts in the daily conduct in accordance with the Torah and Mitzvoth. This is true of every member of the family, and it is especially important in the case of the wife and mother who is called Akeres Habayis, and who is primarily responsible for the conduct of the home, Kashrus, etc., which has a direct bearing on the well-being of every member of the family. And no matter how satisfactory the spiritual life may seem at any particular time, there is always room for improvement in all matters of goodness and holiness.
Having made such a firm resolution, namely to strengthen the adherence to the Jewish way of life, it would be well to consult a doctor again and ask him if he has any new suggestions as to a remedy for your wife's condition. It is not quite clear from your letter whether the present acuteness of the condition has anything to do with a change of life, as often happens in similar cases.
It may be advisable, with the approval of the doctor of course, to try some treatment by means of nicotinic acid, in doses prescribed by the doctor, if he is in agreement at all.
I would also suggest that your wife should try to engage her attention on various activities, and not only during the activities themselves, but also before and after, so as to turn her attention away from herself.
I hope your wife knows of, and observes, the good custom of putting aside a small coin for Tzedoko before lighting the candles.
Hoping to hear good news from you
With blessing
By (secretary)
