Sharing My Strength

I am 1 in 26 people living with epilepsy. I was diagnosed in September 2018 when I was a sophomore in high school. I had no family history of epilepsy or seizures. I had my first seizure in my bathroom at home. It was 5:15 a.m. and while getting ready for my school’s rivalry football game, I had a seizure and hit my head on the outside of the bathtub. 

I arrived at the hospital via ambulance where I woke up confused, trying to figure out what had happened and how I had ended up there. After that hospital visit, I had a total of 15 seizures from September 2018 to June 2020. I also had many doctor visits, testing, trials with different medications, and even concussions.

Living with epilepsy has not been without challenges. I have had to deal with medication management and lifestyle adjustments. I have focused on building a support network, educating myself, self-care, advocacy, and awareness. I overcame the obstacles I faced by getting support from my family and peers and working closely with my doctors to ensure I was getting the proper medication and testing done. I keep my activity level high and stress low. I make myself and my health a priority and educate myself on my diagnosis and new lifestyle changes.  

I relied heavily on quotes and phrases that were meaningful to me to get through the difficult times. Some of my favorites are: “Overcome all odds” and “She Believed She Could Because Christ Gave Her Strength, So She Did” (Philippians 4:13). I have a tattoo of “Overcome all odds” with the purple epilepsy awareness ribbon on the back of my arm. My background on my computer and a drawing in my room says, “She Believed She Could Because Christ Gave Her Strength So She Did” (Philippians 4:13).

As of June 2024, I have been seizure-free for four years! I am so grateful that my doctors and I found a care plan that works for me. Inspired by my own experiences, I pursued a healthcare career studying nursing. I am currently a medical assistant in oncology/hematology, which has allowed me to witness firsthand the incredible impact healthcare professionals have on people’s lives. This exposure has solidified my passion for nursing, as I aspire to provide compassionate care and support to individuals like me who are navigating their journey with epilepsy. By dedicating my life to this field, I can empathize with patients on a personal level and use my experiences to inspire them personally. 

Advocacy is important to me. Epilepsy has changed my life and my thinking, but it has also given me strength. I am sharing my story to raise awareness and education, and support and empower others who struggle with the same diagnosis as me.