It’s Complicated
In discussing epilepsy, it is important to recognize its variety and complexity. I will reference my auras and talk about *auras, but will absolutely keep in mind that not everyone with epilepsy has auras. I will talk about my experience of a *seizure and what it is like while keeping in mind that not everyone has the kind of seizures that I have. Epilepsy is complicated, and I think that is why I have such a hard time discussing it with people who don’t have it. There are things about my own case that I didn’t understand for well over a decade, and I am still learning to this day.
I will touch on several themes that have been important to my journey and that of my family. Subjects like receiving a diagnosis, neurologists, issues surrounding medications and testing (both for surgery candidacy and general tests like MRIs and EEGs) will frequently be discussed. I also want to cover other areas I feel are important. These including dealing with additional health problems and how they relate to epilepsy, coping mechanisms for the day-to-day struggles and for more difficult times and options available for finding support. Finally, I want to emphasize the value of communication with doctors, family and friends to receive proper treatment and a strong network of support.
How to Discuss It
How can I talk about epilepsy in general when I have only lived part of my life with it? With a lot of help, feedback, and by keeping everything stated here in mind. I will stay committed to that knowledge and what it really means. And finally, I will always remember what this blog is really about: which is reaching out, helping those who may feel isolated by their condition, and telling them and their families that they definitely are not alone.
*Aura: a feeling one gets prior to having a seizure.
*Seizure: a brief disturbance in the electrical activity of the brain
