My epilepsy journey began when I was in third grade, and since then, it has become a defining part of my life – but not in the way people might expect. Growing up with epilepsy meant navigating uncertainty, hospital stays, and moments where I felt different from my peers. There were times when I felt isolated or misunderstood, especially during long video EEGs or when I had to miss out on everyday activities.
But over time, epilepsy also shaped me into someone stronger, more empathetic, and deeply committed to helping others. It taught me resilience at a young age and gave me a unique perspective on what it means to truly support someone going through a difficult experience.
That’s what led me to create Project T.E.E.N. (Teens Experiencing Epilepsy Now). What started as a small idea – bringing comfort items to teens undergoing EEGs like I once did – has grown into something much bigger. Through this initiative, I’ve been able to turn my own challenges into a source of comfort and connection for others.
Epilepsy is still a part of my everyday life, but it no longer defines my limits – it fuels my purpose. I use my voice to advocate, educate, and remind others that they are not alone in their journey.
What Would a Cure for Epilepsy Mean to You?
A cure for epilepsy would mean that no child has to grow up the way I did. When I was younger, epilepsy was confusing and overwhelming. I didn’t always understand what was happening to me, and there were moments that felt isolating, especially when I had to spend time in the hospital or miss out on things other kids could do without thinking twice.
A cure would mean taking that fear and uncertainty away from kids who are just trying to grow up and feel normal. It would mean no more long hospital stays, no more missed moments, and no more feeling different because of something you can’t control.
More than anything, it would mean that young people wouldn’t have to carry something so heavy at such an early age. They could just be kids without fear, without limitations, and without epilepsy shaping their childhood the way it shaped mine.