Emily Morton, a 28-year-old from Australia, has been living in unimaginable pain for nearly three years due to a rare and excruciating medical condition. Describing her ordeal as a “living hell,” Morton’s life has been upended since she was diagnosed with atypical trigeminal neuralgia—a condition regarded as “the most painful condition known to medicine.”

How It All Began

Morton’s nightmare began in early 2022. At the time, her life seemed perfect: she had recently married Andy, her soulmate, and the couple was preparing to start a family. However, things took a devastating turn when she began experiencing persistent pain in her teeth.

Morton was diagnosed in 2022. Credit: GoFundMe

Initially, a visit to the dentist revealed no underlying issues. But within days, the pain intensified, radiating through her entire mouth and spreading to both sides of her face.

“Imagine having a dentist drill into every single one of your teeth 24/7,” Morton explained. “There is nothing you can do to stop the pain.”

Even the slightest touch to her face triggered unbearable electric shocks. The pain affected her ability to eat, talk, and even smile—everyday actions that most people take for granted.

The Diagnosis

After months of medical and dental consultations and extensive testing—including brain scans and bloodwork—Morton was finally diagnosed with atypical trigeminal neuralgia.

Morton's condition leaves her in agonizing pain. Credit: GoFundMe

This rare condition affects the trigeminal nerve, which transmits sensory signals from the face to the brain. While trigeminal neuralgia typically impacts one side of the face, Morton’s pain spans both sides, making her case even more complex.

Doctors informed Morton that her condition, often referred to as the “suicide disease,” is one of the most painful medical conditions known. The relentless pain has been known to lead some sufferers to consider ending their lives.

How It Has Changed Her Life

The diagnosis has upended Morton’s life. Unable to work, she and her husband were forced to move in with her mother to manage the financial burden of her treatments.

Morton described how the condition has stripped away her sense of normalcy:

“It takes over my entire existence. My entire life is on hold while I search for something to give me relief.”

The couple has already spent tens of thousands of dollars on treatments, including some costing upwards of $15,000 AUD ($9,300 USD) each. Morton even traveled to Europe to explore alternative therapies, but nothing has alleviated her agony.

Morton has sought help around the word. Credit: GoFundMe

Hope on the Horizon

There may be a potential breakthrough for Morton. She is considering a cutting-edge neurosurgical procedure called MRI-Guided Focused Ultrasound.

This innovative treatment uses highly targeted ultrasound waves to disrupt pain signals in the brain’s thalamus region. While it offers a 50/50 chance of success, the procedure comes with a hefty price tag of over $40,000 AUD ($25,000 USD). Additional costs for travel and rehabilitation add to the financial strain.

Community Support

To help cover the cost of the procedure, Morton’s sister, Rachel, launched a GoFundMe campaign. So far, it has raised $20,000 AUD ($12,000 USD), bringing Morton halfway to her goal.

Morton expressed her gratitude:

“I was blown away and so thankful to everyone who has donated. We are halfway to our goal.”

Morton's treatment is very costly. Credit: GoFundMe

Looking Ahead

Despite the challenges, Morton remains hopeful and determined to find relief. She dreams of dedicating her life to advocating for others suffering from invisible illnesses.

“In 2024, I believe there must be technology out there, somewhere, that can at least help,” she said. “My plan is to become a fierce advocate for people with invisible ‘mystery’ illnesses.”

Morton is determined to inspire hope for others like her:

“I want them to know they are not alone. I want us to come together and fight for better healthcare.”

Living with the Condition

While not a terminal illness, atypical trigeminal neuralgia robs its sufferers of a normal life. Morton reflects on how it has shaped her perspective:

“People who have this condition are some of the bravest people to walk this earth.”

She finds solace in the small moments of life and continues to hold on to hope for a better future.

This heart-wrenching story sheds light on the struggles faced by individuals living with chronic pain conditions. Morton’s resilience serves as an inspiration to those battling invisible illnesses.