Epilepsy Is Quite Tricky: The Many Pivots

Epilepsy is quite tricky. The other night, I woke up because I felt intense jerking in my sleep, a rare occurrence. That night, it happened. I got up and got a glass of water.

This past year has been a year of change- both physically and emotionally. I have learned how to transition, but my body gets tired, and I refuse to stop going. This year, I started teaching again, and it’s a lot.

Embracing a new path

I am here to strive in whatever industry I am in. The current workplace pivot is being a Special Education educator. I never thought I would make this pivot again- if I’m being honest. But it has been quite rewarding. I get to work with children that have disabilities. I get to encourage them and help them achieve their goals.

Navigating epilepsy in the workplace

When I first started working as an educator again, I told my employer about my epilepsy. For some reason, it took me a few months to tell my coworkers. I’m not sure why I was hesitant. When I told them, they were understanding and already knew seizure safety procedures. I haven't told the kiddos yet.

Oddly as it may seem, I am private about my epilepsy in the workplace. It's still a sensitive topic for me. While I host events, am an advocate, and am active in the community, the workplace feels different. I’m still trying to figure out how to maneuver in all the workplaces I’ve been in.

This journey has taught me that it’s okay to be open about my epilepsy. It also taught me to keep my doctor and my administration in the loop. Lastly, to pay attention to my body.

I am thankful my job works with me if I have a seizure. I never felt forced or pressured to quit my role as an educator. I am thankful for that. This school provides growth and I am happy.

A message of gratitude and hope

I want to take a moment to say it has been an honor writing for epilepsydisease.org. And I appreciate the opportunity- it has been fun.

To those of you fighting epilepsy- stay strong. Stay resilient. Don’t let epilepsy stop or define you. You define you.

I’ve faced numerous challenges, but each one has made me stronger and more determined. I’ve learned how to pivot with ease; it's effortless because I trust God to guide me. Throughout this process of transition, I celebrate my accomplishments whether big or small. I have realized that these pivots are nothing more than redirections. When God is preparing something specifically for you- he has to make room. I don’t question God and I embrace whatever He sends my way.

This journey has taught me empathy, compassion, and to be a voice. We all are struggling with something. Whether we accept it or not.

Being an epilepsy advocate is truly a rewarding passion.

To help others, be of service, and give hope: that you can live a normal life with epilepsy.