Sometimes, in my fight to eliminate stigma and live a “normal” life, I create the perception that my life is easy and free from struggle. However, in my speech at the Epilepsy Foundation of Western/Central Pennsylvania’s (EFWCP) annual Mardi Gras Gala I showed what life with epilepsy is like–both the good and the bad parts.
Growing up with Epilepsy means growing up with stigma. In one of my earliest memories of stigma, I learned a valuable lesson.
Though I’ve lived with Epilepsy for most of my life, watching a family member experience seizures for the first time was harder than I ever imagined.
Trying to live a “normal” life while managing Epilepsy can be difficult. How are you balancing life and epilepsy?
Participating in fundraising events, like a run or a walk, is one way to stop epilepsy stigma in it’s tracks.
Epilepsy stigma can be a legitimate concern in the workplace but having a job is more about showing off your abilities.
How many of you wear medical ID bracelets? Do you know someone who wears one? How long did it take to wear one? For me, it took quite a few years.
Epilepsy stigma is a societal problem. Addressing people one-by-one is helpful, and I hope they teach others what they have just learned.