When my freezing episodes started I remember writing “I’m scared that this could be a manifestation of my anxiety”. I was scared because I thought that if it was all in my head it meant that I am crazy and would and be distanced from society. It turns out my initial instinct was correct. It is all in my head, but I’m not crazy or making it up. I can’t control my brain. I also can’t control my heartbeat or my kidneys. I’m done being ashamed of having mental illnesses. After being un-diagnosed with epilepsy two months ago I was diagnosed with psychogenic non epileptic seizures and/or an atypica ..read more

I’ve been wanting to write an eloquent post about this but I haven’t been able to so I’m scribbling down my thoughts: When I was diagnosed with epilepsy I felt at peace. Even though the future was unknown I felt secure having a well researched condition with many treatment options. Shortly after my diagnosis I started this blog as a way for others with epilepsy to feel like they have a friend. I also wanted to educate the public about the lesser known realities of living with the condition.  It was all going so well... In the beginning of August I had a VEEG done. I stayed in the hospital for ..read more

Beginning with a birth defect from her late father’s exposure to agent orange, Elena’s journey with epilepsy is unlike any I’ve come across. Two broken ankles, the passing of her father, brain surgeries, and a sweet service pup are just a few of the details in Elena’s story. She has been put through the fire and come out stronger. If you’re prepared to learn and be inspired, give her story a read. Name: Elena Halfhill Location: Miami, Florida Age: 21 Interests and hobbies: Harry Potter, painting, jigsaw puzzles.  Occupatio ..read more

My one year old tries to touch outlets, consume inedible objects, and lunge towards ledges. Long story short, he loves danger. It’s hard to keep up with him when I’m healthy. When I’m sick, it’s impossible. I shudder to think of what could happen if I had a seizure while alone with him. I think of the items he’d choke on, the glass he’d break, how scared he might feel. A few days ago I woke up to the familiar sound of crying. I went to roll out of bed to get Crosby and I couldn't, I was having a seizure. I listened to him wail for ten minutes while I lay frozen, thanking God he was in his crib ..read more

There is a special solidarity that comes through sharing the same invisible illness. I have made incredible connections with fellow epileptics from around the world. I am thrilled to debut this new series showcasing the wonderful people I’ve met and their stories. Kyle Kieffer is my OG epileptic internet friend. He was the first to reach out to me after I started my Instagram. Kyle runs epilepsylifestyle.com where he goes above and beyond to educate, support, and encourage others. Kyle experiences partial seizures and was d ..read more

I’m about to have one of my favorite dinners, chicken rice soup. I have my spoon lifted, anticipating the deliciousness that I’m about to experience when I freeze. I’m pretty sure having a full plate of food in front of me is one of my triggers. My Dad was standing next to me and when he realized I was frozen. he put his arm around me. He stayed with me for 25 minutes while his food got cold.This is just one of many examples where someone inconvenienced themselves by supporting me over the last few months. My family and friends have made me dinner, brought me coffee, watched my son for me, c ..read more

Here are some simple ways to help out friends and family members with epilepsy: Offer ridesA major frustration for many epileptics is not being able to drive. Volunteer rides to the grocery store, appointments, even special events like concerts that may otherwise be missed. If your loved one’s epilepsy is well controlled, offer to drop them off at a place of their choosing for some alone time.Provide emotional supportBeyond having seizures, epileptics often experience issues like memory loss, depression, and loneliness. Let your friend know you’re there for them. A simple encouraging text can ..read more

I’m frozen. A living statue for the tenth time today. If I can just make a noise, any noise, I might get his attention. His eyes are glued to the TV and my feet are glued to the floor. I focus intently on trying to move my hand from the light switch, after a few minutes I’m able to wiggle my fingers just enough that they slip off the switch and my arm falls blissfully to my side - sweet relief. Less frozen now, I manage to slide my feet a few steps into the hallway past the wall that’s separating us. Just a little bit further and he will see me. Aaaand I’m frozen again.  All he needs to do is ..read more