Grace Miller: Walking Through Pain for a Brighter Tomorrow
By Aneeta Prem MBE, CEO, Trigeminal Neuralgia Association UK
When twelve-year-old Grace Miller from Monifieth, Scotland, set out to walk twenty miles on International Trigeminal Neuralgia Awareness Day, she was not walking for herself. She was walking for everyone who lives with trigeminal neuralgia (TN) — one of the most painful conditions known to medicine.
Diagnosed at just eleven, Grace endures electric-shock pain on one side of her face so intense it can stop her mid-sentence. Yet this October, she completed her challenge with a quiet determination that moved everyone who knows her story.
“Grace’s bravery reminds us all what true courage looks like,” said Aneeta Prem MBE, CEO of TNA UK. “Living with trigeminal neuralgia at any age is devastating, but for a child to walk through that pain to help others is extraordinary.”
A Walk Through Pain and Hope
Despite weeks of severe facial pain and exhaustion from medication, Grace was determined to finish her twenty-mile walk. Her father, Garry Miller, said she was proud to complete the distance — though relieved it was over.
Her efforts raised more than £2,350 for TNA UK, every pound representing compassion and belief in her mission.
Many of our members will remember Grace’s earlier success, reported in The Scottish Sun, when she raised over £2,000 by making and selling handmade friendship bracelets. Even then, she told reporters:
“Most people don’t know what TN is. I wanted to help people understand it and support others who feel the same pain I do.”
Her story continues to inspire everyone who lives with TN or facial pain.
Understanding Trigeminal Neuralgia in Children
Trigeminal neuralgia is a rare neurological disorder causing sudden, stabbing pain in the face. While most people diagnosed are over fifty, children can be affected too — though it remains exceptionally uncommon.
Because it mimics toothache or sinus pain, many young patients see multiple doctors before receiving a correct diagnosis. Early recognition is vital. Families looking for practical guidance on diagnosis, treatment, school support and wellbeing can visit our main resource:
Children and Young People with TN
That guide, written by Dr Clare Dyer, a GP and parent of a child with TN, offers step-by-step advice for parents and carers supporting children through chronic facial pain.
A New Chapter of Courage
After months of worsening pain, Grace’s medical team recently found a possible cause for her condition. Mr Canty, a paediatric neurosurgeon at the Royal Hospital for Children in Glasgow, reviewed her earlier MRI scan and discovered a vascular loop pressing on her trigeminal nerve.
She is now awaiting a new MRI scan to confirm whether she is a candidate for microvascular decompression (MVD) — a specialist surgical procedure that relieves pressure on the nerve.
If suitable, this could be life-changing. Another teenage patient recently underwent the same operation under Mr Canty’s care and has since experienced dramatic improvement. Grace has spoken to her and holds onto that hope.
“We’re keeping everything crossed that this next scan gives Grace the chance she deserves,” Garry said.
Why Grace’s Story Matters
Grace’s courage is not just inspiring — it highlights the urgent need for greater awareness of paediatric trigeminal neuralgia.
Children with TN often struggle to describe their pain. They may appear withdrawn or reluctant to eat, brush their teeth or go outside in the wind. Teachers may not understand why they suddenly flinch or cry.
At TNA UK, we are determined to make sure no child faces this alone. We continue to campaign for:
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Earlier diagnosis through better GP and dental awareness.
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Specialist facial pain pathways at hospitals such as Great Ormond Street.
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Educational materials to help schools understand and support children in pain.
Every child deserves to be heard, believed and cared for — and Grace’s voice makes that message impossible to ignore.
Strength in the Face of Pain
Grace’s walk was a physical and emotional challenge few adults could manage. Yet she completed it with the same quiet strength that defines so many people living with trigeminal neuralgia.
Her determination reminds us that while TN may take away ease and comfort, it cannot take away courage or kindness. Grace’s steps — each one through pain — have already helped countless others feel seen and supported.
At TNA UK, we will continue to build on her example, ensuring children and families living with TN have access to the care, understanding and community they deserve.
“Grace represents the spirit of everyone in the TN community,” Aneeta said. “She shows us that hope can be stronger than pain, and that even the smallest steps can change lives.”
How You Can Support
If you would like to support Grace’s mission and help us continue our work for people with trigeminal neuralgia and facial pain, please visit her fundraising page:
Donate to Grace’s Walk for TNA UK
Every message of encouragement and every donation, however small, makes a difference.
Together, we can ensure that no child, and no family, walks this path alone.
References
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Pediatric Trigeminal Neuralgia – A Systematic Review, Journal of Neurosurgery: Pediatrics (2023)
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NICE Clinical Knowledge Summary: Trigeminal Neuralgia (2023)