The story below was submitted by Maria. She is hoping for a little support as her son was recently diagnosed with epilepsy. Encouraging comments are welcome!
Maria’s Story
My youngest son Mark who is 30 years old with Down’s Syndrome and non-verbal was diagnosed with Epilepsy/Grand Mal seizures on March 18, 2017. He started having these episodes on January 9, 2017. After having a sleep study done, and many trips to the Neurologist he was finally admitted to St. Joseph’s Hospital in Phoenix on the EMU unit where he was finally diagnosed and we had some answers.
I feel like I have been hit by a train and like I am living a nightmare. Has not been easy wrapping my head around this as I am a single mom and have been raising him by myself since he was born. No support system. Thank you for listening.
New Diagnosis of Epilepsy
For anyone who was recently diagnosed there are some great resources right here at Living Well With Epilepsy:
- Get the basics at Epilepsy 101
- Learn about Finding a Treatment
- Find out how the Epilepsy Storylines App can help
Your turn
Take a minute to show Maria she is not alone. You can submit your comments below.
Neena
Your son is not alone in this battle. He’s amongst people like me.
You are not alone…you are one of the many parents that worry about their child. Seeing the child suffer & still needing to stay strong for them is hard. You are a very special parent your son is lucky to have you for support. I’m luck to have a strong suppotive mother who pulls me out of my down times & tells me to challenge myself.
It’s because of strong minded mothers like you that makes it a bit easier to live thru all the pain.
Sending internet hugs from afar. Wish you & your son all the best.
Danielle
Hi Maria. I have so much respect for mums like you who parent kids with health challenges alone. Mark is a precious gift and he is so blessed to have you advocate for him. I know it’s hard and I understand what you mean by feeling like you’ve been hit by a train. Hope you can find joy in the small things and that you and Mark share some smiles today. Your doing an incredible job. Bless you xx