Why Do I Talk About Epilepsy Awareness & Sudep?

I decided to talk about Epilepsy & SUDEP (Sudden Unexpected Death in Epilepsy), to help shatter the stigmas, educate and to remind millions of others that they are not alone.

As a parent to one who fights Epilepsy and/or its many side effects, I see advocacy from a different perspective, and let me say, it is definitely not easy. Whether you are the caregiver or the patient, the stigmas are very very real just in different ways. As I have said in other stories, I cannot and will not share my child's story, only she knows what it feels like to experience a seizure, I can only share what I see and experience as her mom (caregiver).

Is the mom experience daunting? Yes. Are there days where I say, "why the frick were we chosen for this specific journey?" Yes. Are there days I just want to be quiet and hope Epilepsy just goes away? Yes, BUT: if I don't speak up, if I stop writing stories or advocacy, Who would be educated? Who would help break the stigmas? Who would help remind others that they are NOT alone?

"If not now then when? If not you then who?"

Epilepsy and SUDEP are very very real! Start a conversation.

You ARE NOT ALONE! ☂️💜

By Lorrie Forseth
Health Leader/caregiver/advocate