Jamie La Penna From- Illinois

I’m married to a wonderfully supportive husband for 36 years, and I’m a mother to three adult children and grandmother to four boys.
After working in parks and recreation for nearly 18 years, I retired in 2019.

When not traveling or spending time with our family, my husband and I are avid pickleball players. I’m also the family baker and chef, creating all kinds of cookies for Christmas as well as specializing in decorative sugar cookies for themed parties, weddings, and showers. Christmas is my favorite holiday where I embrace my Italian heritage in the foods I prepare.

I found out about TN when I first experienced horrific mouth pain during a road trip. After many appointments with dentists and doctors, and my own research, I was diagnosed with TN in 2021. Since then, I’ve had my ups and downs with TN, but so far, I have been managing my flares with the help of my doctors and medication. I try to stay positive, keep my faith in Jesus, and live my best life! I loved my visit from Sparky, and helping to raise awareness about the challenges of living with TN.