Cathy

Diagnosed: at age 37 (2007)

Seizure Type: Complex Partial

How would you describe your seizures?

My seizures make my memory very bad. I have a hard time concentrating. I have to sit still and take deep breaths.

Is there anything that triggers your seizures? If so, what? Stress.

How did you react to the diagnosis of epilepsy? 

I was very upset. The medicine makes me very sleepy, so I try to work and function and sometimes it is hard.

What if anything does epilepsy prevent or limit you from doing? 

Driving

What medications do you take? Does the medication control your seizures? How many seizures do you current have a month?

Keppra and Trileptal. They are still trying to get me regulated. I have about 3 seizures a day. Sometimes more.

Do you find it hard to fit in with others? How do other people respond when they hear you have epilepsy?

I try to fit in and everyone is very nice. Sometimes I get weird looks. People that do not know look at me funny when I have them.

What would you like people to know about epilepsy? 

It is very difficult on the people that have it. We are trying to understand it, so please be patient with us.

What would you like people to know about you? 

I am the same as you. I try to work and do my job to the best of my ability and sometimes it is very hard. Please be patient with me.

What is the hardest thing about living with epilepsy? 

My memory is horrible. I have to ask the same questions over and over.

Do your seizures affect your memory, learning, etc. If so how? 

Yes. Very much so.

Where do you see yourself in the future? 

Hopefully having better control over my seizures.

Is there anything you would like to say to other people who are newly diagnosed?

Just have faith in God and know that it will get better. Just be patient.