Building a Brighter Future for Every Family

I am the parent of two children with epilepsy. My journey with epilepsy awareness began when I accepted a new job in pediatric neurology as an occupational therapist for the school system. A nurse shared an educational video about recognizing seizures. Without that training, I would not have realized my own 10-month-old son was experiencing them. Since I was able to recognize the signs early, he received testing and started medication that successfully controls his seizures today.

When my daughter was 16 months old, she also began having seizures. Unlike her brother, her epilepsy is chronic and requires ongoing management and emergency planning. This is where the Epilepsy Foundation has been invaluable. Their website, educational materials, and caregiver tools have allowed me to ensure that everyone involved in my children’s lives is prepared to recognize and respond to seizures.

My daughter has medication for emergency use, and thanks to the Epilepsy Foundation’s free seizure first aid course, I was able to help her preschool staff receive proper training. Their resources made it possible for me to share accurate, accessible information with teachers, caregivers, and babysitters. Because of these tools, the adults responsible for my children feel confident, informed, and empowered, not fearful or uncertain.

I rely on the Epilepsy Foundation regularly, not only for education but for reassurance and support. Their resources have created a safer environment for my children and have helped me ensure they are cared for by people who understand their needs. Having access to clear, reliable epilepsy education has made a direct and meaningful difference in my children’s quality of life and safety.

As a mother of two children with epilepsy, I have faced many challenges in securing the medication, care, and support they need. I transitioned from working as a contractor for the State of Maryland to becoming a state employee because I needed access to benefits to take leave for MRIs, hospitalizations, and ongoing medical appointments, as well as to afford their medications. As a single mother working in public service to support children with disabilities, I work every day to keep a roof over our heads, food on the table, and to provide my children with a preschool education. It is not easy. Without the help of my family, friends, and community, I honestly don’t know where we would be. Their support has been essential in helping us navigate this journey.

To other families walking this path: keep the faith, and do not be afraid to ask for help. You are not alone. Speak up, advocate for your children, and lean on the people and resources around you. Your voice matters. Your experience matters. Together, we can build understanding, create support, and pave a brighter future for our children and for every family affected by epilepsy.

We cannot stay silent and live in the shadows out of fear of discrimination. We must have the courage to speak up and fight for change.