Overcoming Challenges To Make a Difference

My name is Sophia, and I am 20 years old. I have lived with epilepsy for 13 years, since I was diagnosed at 7 years old. My epilepsy is caused by a rare genetic disorder called tuberous sclerosis complex. The main seizure types I have always had are focal impaired awareness seizures, which I always feel come on, beginning with an aura. I have also experienced simple partial seizures, where I feel scared, and things look different. I still remember I once had a simple partial seizure when I saw my neurologist. Everything was distorted, and I was scared. The good news is those types of seizures went away.

My seizures have always been hard to control, and I have had to try a lot of different medications. Last year, I had a vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) implant to help control my seizures. So far, it seems to be helping me, and I have not had any seizures for three months. While I am very grateful to know that it’s helping to control my seizures, I need to remind myself that even if my sisters are getting their driver’s licenses, there are certain things that I can’t do yet. One day, with the help of my VNS, I might be able to drive myself.  

I am living with my family and plan on getting a job. I have always been very creative, and I have been crafting custom greeting cards, which I love to do. My experience led me to want to raise awareness and encourage others. I also recently gave an epilepsy presentation at my local church to raise awareness and promote seizure safety.

If you don’t feel like you can make it through the challenges that epilepsy brings, don’t worry. You’re not alone, and it’s normal to feel how you do. You have to be brave, look at the bright side of what can happen, and remember that there are always ways you can overcome challenges to make a difference.