“I Have Epilepsy and I Define IT.”

I recently read Bryan Farley’s blog post “Defining Epilepsy and Creativity” which was part of November’s Living Well with Epilepsy Blog Relay.

He talked about how people usually say, “I have epilepsy, but it doesn’t define me.”  Of course, we are more than our epilepsy.  This is the message that we want the world to know.  However, he changed this phrase to say, “I have epilepsy and I define IT.”  His rationale is that we as people with epilepsy should acknowledge our epilepsy and the role it takes in our lives.  Then, we can work to advocate for ourselves. 

I think his way of looking at how to define epilepsy makes sense since it is a part of everyday life.  The important thing is to evaluate yourself and see how your epilepsy affects you.  Only then can you can figure out how to become seizure free and attain a better quality of life. 

The following are some factors you may consider in making decisions about your epilepsy:

·         Treatment options (Medications, diets, surgery, VNS, other devices, medical marijuana, etc.)

·         Side effects

·         Social issues

·         Work

The more you become educated about epilepsy, the better.  It will help you make wiser decisions regarding your health and well-being.  This includes getting enough sleep, limiting or eliminating alcohol intake, avoiding flashing lights, etc.  On the other hand, you also need to live the life you intend to.  You need to find the right balance for yourself.  With a good support system, you can make it work.

If you have any comments on issues you face, please feel free to share!