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Want to find local support group for my 14 yr old son
Tue, 07/11/2006 - 21:41Topic: Living With Epilepsy - Youth
My son had his first grand mal seizure in December of last year. Since then, he has had one practically every month. The drs started him on keppra (500mg) 2x a day. Now he is up to 1000mg 2x a day. The doctors want to start him on a different medication, but his liver enzymes are too high for most medications. His primary doctor is trying to figure out the problem so he can start taking something else. His seizures are getting more frequent. This past one was a really bad one and took place in the shower which really scared me (they usually take place in his bed). He is starting to get depressed about having epilepsy and is starting to hate his life. I have tried to get him to open up to me, but he just keeps telling me that it doesn't bother him. He says that but I know it's eating at him inside. He has had one seizure in school, which I'm sure most of you know the embarrassment he faced going back the next day. I would like to get him into a local support group here in Baltimore County, Maryland, but all I have been able to find are ones specifically for adults. If any of you have any suggestions it would be greatly appreciated.
Re: Want to find local support group for my 14 yr old son
Submitted by spiz on Mon, 2006-07-17 - 03:03
Spinfall, Here is a link that may help: http://epilepsyfoundation.org/aboutus/AffiliateLookup.cfm You might also check with your doctor, local hospital, Social Services. They are usually good about knowing specified support groups for youth and senior citizens. My heart goes out to him. I know it is a hard thing to adjust and deal with, especially in the beginning. Encourage him to learn as much as possible about his type of epilepsy and/or seizures as possible. There is strength and comfort in knowledge. This page offers good information and also has questions and answers you or him may have. Take care! http://www.epilepsy.com/epilepsy/research_articles.html -Spiz