One Step Closer To Seizure-Free

According to my mom, I was born two weeks early with a lack of oxygen, which led to my first seizure at 8 months old. Throughout my childhood, doctors conducted numerous tests to determine the source of my seizures and explore treatment options. I, however, was not aware of my epilepsy until I began maturing.

I have experienced both generalized and focal seizures. Tests showed that 80-90% of my seizures originated from my right hemisphere. My chances of ever becoming seizure-free were only about 50 percent. With my family's support, I underwent brain surgery three times to remove the right temporal lobe. I was only seizure-free for a year, but the seizures eventually returned. 

Despite the seizures returning, the surgeries have given me more control over my condition. After graduating high school in 1999, new technologies emerged, offering hope for better seizure management. I have had a VNS for 24 years, but it has not been very effective. Last year, doctors performed an SEEG and discovered a piece remaining in my right temporal lobe causing severe seizures. I believe after removing that remaining piece on June 10, 2024, I am one step closer to being seizure-free. My doctors have always encouraged me not to give up, as new treatments and technologies are constantly being developed.

Living with epilepsy all my life has been challenging. It has impacted my memory and caused a learning disability. Despite the doubts from teachers and others about my ability to succeed in college, I graduated with an associate of science degree in accounting with a 3.64 GPA. I've learned that while I may not be able to control having epilepsy, I also do not have to let it control my life.

I communicate with a support group every two weeks, which has been reassuring. I decided to tell my story as I have dealt with epilepsy all my life and I just went through my fourth brain surgery. I stay active and I like to learn new things, and I encourage others with epilepsy to do the same. I do my best to stay positive and don't lose my faith in God as that has been my strength throughout life.