Advocacy is key for overcoming barriers to finding and accessing the tools needed to make life with your conditions easier.
Advocacy is key to overcoming barriers to finding and accessing the tools needed to make life with your conditions easier.
Since being diagnosed with epilepsy, I fought to get the right treatment to alleviate the symptoms of my condition. I pleaded with my doctor for a new neurologist, one who fully understood the nature of my epilepsy. My first two seizures were tonic-clonic seizures, characterized by a blackout and body convulsions, followed by confusion and grogginess. Many people with epilepsy experience an aura beforehand. Mine hit me with a metallic taste in my mouth and a feeling of jamais vu.
When my doctor introduced me to Epilepsy Toronto, I received support in finding a new neurologist who better understood my needs and taught me the importance of self-advocacy. Through Epilepsy Toronto’s educational sessions and workshops, I learned that lethargy, disorientation, and blanking out could be related to my focal seizures. My new neurologist helped me find a new treatment that was right for me. This would not have happened if I had stayed silent rather than advocating for myself.
For more information, visit epilepsytoronto.org.
