Ashley’s Story
I was 21 years old when I had my first seizure and was unaware I had one until I woke up in the hospital. Less than 4 months after my first seizure, I got diagnosed with (primary generalised) epilepsy and was in complete shock when my neurologist diagnosed me. I am 22 years old now and I’ve had a few medication increases since I don’t know what causes my seizures to happen unexpectedly.
For the first 2 ½ months after my diagnosis, I felt that people would treat me differently. I isolated myself during a time as I felt ashamed to have epilepsy and not knowing when my next seizure would happen. But after a few months of building up more courage and joining a group with others who have epilepsy, I am no longer ashamed to live with epilepsy. I am grateful that I am still able to play my favourite sport, curling.
In February, I won bronze at the OCAA curling championships in mixed doubles. Prior to my first seizure last year, I won gold at OCAA in mixed doubles. I am also grateful to have my boyfriend, friends, family, and my coaches in my life that accept me for who I am and not for my condition.
Finding a cure would not only help myself but also help others with epilepsy (with or without a cause). I want to educate myself more and possibly become an ambassador & talk to people about epilepsy. I want everyone to know that you don’t have to be ashamed to live with epilepsy.
Not many people are educated or understand about epilepsy, and I want my family, friends, staff members, coaches, and others to educate themselves about the condition, what to do before, during and after an individual has a seizure, and reduce the stigma around epilepsy.
The courage of those living with epilepsy,
inspires us and fuels our journey.
Your gift will help us to continue on the road toward an epilepsy cure.