Epilepsy from a mother's perspective

Aaron enjoying time at
the Henry Doorly Zoo.

Submitted by Casey Abler, Glenwood Regional Office
More people live with epilepsy than with autism spectrum disorder, Parkinson’s disease, MS and cerebral palsy combined. November is Epilepsy Awareness Month and our family takes this time to advocate and educate people on this disorder. 
     Our son Aaron was diagnosed with Hemimegalencephaly and epilepsy when he was three days old. He has battled various types of seizures every day since his diagnosis in 2006, having 12 in a day at times. In July of 2014, he had brain surgery, a Hemispherectomy. After that, Aaron didn’t have seizures for 11 months, the longest period ever. Although his seizures have returned, they are not as severe as they used to be.
     Epilepsy cannot be cured. Medications can help control seizures and surgery can help, by removing a part of the brain, but there is no cure. 
     November is dedicated to improving seizure recognition and first aid awareness. There is a stigma that goes along with the diagnosis. The more we educate and bring awareness, the better life can be for those living with epilepsy. 
     I think some people are afraid to ask questions. It’s okay to ask questions! I have never been offended when people ask about Aaron’s story. Aaron calls his seizures, "his hiccups". He does not know when they are coming, but he is becoming more aware of his body and lets me or his teachers know when he feels ‘shakey’.
     If you would like more information, ask Casey or visit the Epilepsy Foundation's website.