I Am 1 in 26: From Paramedic to Patient

I am 1 in 26. I developed epilepsy as an adult at the age of 44 after having COVID, which affected me neurologically. As a paramedic, I thought I knew a lot about epilepsy, but I was wrong. I have learned so much since my diagnosis.

After experiencing my own seizures and medication side effects, I now truly understand what others with epilepsy are going through. What used to be a routine run on the ambulance has become the call that means the most to me. Being able to talk with others about our shared experiences allows me to comfort them in a different way, because I understand firsthand.

I lost my job as a paramedic because my employer did not understand how to handle my diagnosis. I was treated differently. Eventually, I had to change jobs because a fresh start was what I needed. I can see the stress my epilepsy has placed on my family. My wife encouraged me to look into getting a service animal, and I was awarded one by a local nonprofit that supports veterans and first responders facing health challenges.

My dog Willow has been a miracle. She watches me closely and has helped me tremendously.

Stay the course. It will be rough. The medications can be hard to deal with, and your family may feel overwhelmed at times. But it does get better.

The stigma surrounding epilepsy is tough. It cost me my dream job, which felt like home. I want others to know that just because you have epilepsy, you are in no way inferior. You do not deserve to be treated differently.