Advocating for Healthy Living With Epilepsy

My epilepsy journey began as a teenager when I had very vague symptoms, including feeling very tired and occasional lightheadedness. It was having a noticeable impact on my energy level as an athlete. Testing found abnormal electrical activity in the brain consistent with seizure activity. I began medication treatment, with apparent seizure control, for many years.

I noticeably began to have more evident, uncontrolled seizures after the birth of my first child, including focal seizures, some with impaired awareness, and generalized absence seizures. I had extensive testing to determine the source of my seizures, and after trying several other medications, I decided to undergo craniotomy brain surgery. I was able to have a second child and have now been seizure-free for 16 years. The challenge of living with epilepsy has helped me appreciate how the combination of medical intervention and living a healthy lifestyle has allowed me to live well with epilepsy.

I encourage those challenged with epilepsy management to advocate for their health and work with a trusted doctor on a treatment plan. It is important to take an active role in your care, paying attention to any signs or symptoms that might indicate a concern or change in your status requiring adjustments to the plan. I encourage participation in a support group, where you can be part of a community that can provide a safe environment to share your experiences and be a source of social connection with those experiencing similar challenges.

I have been an advocate for epilepsy for many years and am an Epilepsy Awareness Ambassador with the Epilepsy Foundation. I have shared my story and insight in a video series initiated by the Comprehensive Epilepsy Center at Froedtert and the Medical College of Wisconsin. As a Health and Wellness Coach, I am passionate about sharing how lifestyle behaviors can impact seizure control. It is empowering to appreciate how physical activity, nutrition, quality sleep, stress management, social connection, and other things that we can have some control over can enhance our quality of life.