Shaping a Brighter Future for People With Epilepsy

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Read about Millicent's journey with seizures and how it led her to advocacy

By
Millicent Misango
, Washington

Person with Epilepsy

Monday, December 23, 2024

My journey with seizures began after a motorbike accident. I was treated successfully for a leg injury and thought that would be the end of it. However, while working for a corporate company, I experienced my first seizure. The diagnosis didn’t come easily—it was a long and confusing process. My colleagues, family, and I were all frightened and overwhelmed, as this was something none of us had ever encountered before. I had never even fainted before, so the recurring seizures, day after day at work, left me feeling helpless and uncertain. I assumed that once I healed from the accident, my body would return to normal. That wasn’t the case. Months later, I learned that a blood clot in my brain was causing the seizures.

Things became even more complicated and frustrating as finding the right balance of anti-seizure medication took years. I had to leave my job and step away from everything to focus on treatment and recovery. It was a difficult time, and I struggled mentally, emotionally, and spiritually, feeling like I had lost everything. Rejection and uncertainty clouded my path, and I had no clear direction despite regular doctor visits. During this period, I realized how limited the available information and support were for people like me. This lack of awareness sparked a desire in me to learn more and advocate for better understanding, treatments, and support systems for those living with epilepsy.

Through my personal experiences and research, I have developed a strong commitment to raising awareness, advancing knowledge, and improving the quality of life for those affected by epilepsy. I now firmly believe that it’s possible to live a fulfilling life, even with epilepsy. As part of my journey, I became Seizure First Aid Certified through the Epilepsy Foundation of America. My experiences living with epilepsy, combined with my passion for creating awareness, have inspired me to continue advocating for a brighter future for those affected by this condition.

Reviewed By: Sara Wyen

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