Charleston Joins Global Shades for Migraine Movement During Migraine and Headache Awareness Month

Charleston, SC — Shades for Migraine is reshaping public understanding of migraine through its global awareness campaign this June, highlighting the true impact of migraine disease as part of Migraine and Headache Awareness Month.

Migraine is not “just a bad headache.” It’s a complex neurological disease that impacts nearly every body system. While migraine is common, many feel the need to push through or hide the pain because of stigma.

Designed to smash stigma, validate lived experience, and drive awareness, Shades For Migraine engages communities through events, social media, and public participation — all to challenge misconceptions about migraine.

Using sunglasses as a symbol, Shades For Migraine brings visibility to migraine and its impact, raising awareness and fostering empathy to fuel change.

“Migraine has taken me out of rooms, out of plans, and sometimes out of myself. Most people never see that part,” said Jessica Johnson-Jones, a chronic migraine patient and advocate. “Shades For Migraine is validation. When someone shows their support, it’s a reminder that even in the darkest moments, I’m not alone.”

Charleston showcases migraine support

While Shades For Migraine has international reach, recognition, participation, and events are underway here in South Carolina.

Governor Henry McMaster has declared June Migraine and Headache Awareness Month in South Carolina. Mayor William Cogswell issued a City of Charleston proclamation recognizing it as well.

The Charleston community is welcome to enjoy the Ashley River Bridge Tender House illuminated in purple June 19-21. Evolve Modern Pilates in Mount Pleasant is hosting a migraine awareness pilates class on June 21st at 11:00 am.

Join the Shades For Migraine movement

This June, Migraine and Headache Awareness Month, the campaign invites the public to “Show You Care, Wear a Pair” by posting a photo in sunglasses on social media and tagging @ShadesForMigraine.

“When people wear sunglasses and show support, it makes me feel seen, understood, and less alone,” said Allison Scarcelli, a Shades For Migraine volunteer. “That support is surprisingly encouraging, especially on harder days.”

How to participate:

SNAP a photo in sunglasses
SHARE it on social media and tag @ShadesForMigraine

SHOW you care and use #ShadesForMigraine to elevate your support

You can learn more about the campaign at shadesformigraine.org and join the movement on Instagram, Facebook, and X.

About Shades For Migraine

Shades For Migraine is a global awareness campaign led by the nonprofit Association of Migraine Disorders. Launched in 2017, Shades For Migraine spreads awareness through a fun, engaging, and inclusive approach to spark conversation and break stigma. Every June, Migraine and Headache Awareness Month, Shades For Migraine encourages the public to show their support for the one billion people worldwide living with migraine disease. In 2025, SFM reached 406 million people with participation in 56 countries and 16 languages.