Epilepsy has changed my life in more ways than I can count. It has limited my independence, opportunity to drive, and generally just live like a “normal” teenager. I’ve had to redo so many of my “firsts” — riding a bike, swimming, etc.
When I was first diagnosed, I had no idea what epilepsy even was. I felt completely alone. It wasn’t until I joined an EFNE group for teens living with epilepsy that everything changed. For the first time, I realized that I wasn’t alone. I had a community who truly understood. Looking back, thats where my advocacy journey really began: simply by sharing my story with others who were living with epilepsy too. I realized that epilepsy is a PART of who I am, but it isn’t ALL that I am. Even though I still am not seizure free, I choose to focus on what I can do instead of what epilepsy has taken from me. I discovered that using my voice can educate others, inspire change, and make someone else feel a little less alone.
To my family, friends, teachers, neurologists, and everyone who have stood beside me, supported me, and cared for me over these last 10 years, thank you from the bottom of my heart. Your support means more than I could ever put into words.
If you’ve read this far, I want you to know I didn’t just post this to say I’ve been living with epilepsy for almost a decade. I’m here to say: be the change you want to see in the world. Life is going to throw curveballs your way. It may change your plans, challenge your limits, and force you to rewrite your story. But it can also reveal strengths you never knew you had. You don’t get to choose every challenge you face, but you do get to choose what you do with it. If my journey has taught me anything, it’s that even the hardest chapters can become the beginning of something meaningful.💜
Special shoutout to the @epilepsyfdn & @epilepsynewengland
#epilepsy #epilepsyawareness #seizures
3 months agokpenkiunas
This is so powerful and true, Abby. I’m sure you’ve made the difference in countless lives, and will continue to do so. Thank you for being a bright light and a beacon of hope💫🌟💛☀️
3 months agolefflinda_
You are truly inspiring- you focus on ability rather than ‘disability’. You make a difference by showing what you can do … there’s no stopping you!💜
3 months agoepilepsynewengland
Thank you for sharing your story so openly and courageously. Your willingness to use your voice to educate, advocate, and remind others they are not alone is making a real difference. We're honored to have been a part of your journey, and we can't wait to see all the lives you'll continue to impact.
3 months agomeowmustard69
I’m really glad to have been able to meet you, you have such a bright spirit and light up any room and I’m sure you are not just inspiring for me but to many others as well! It takes a lot of courage to share your voice and experience :) but you do it effortlessly and also show others how to make a difference as well 🩷 that is truly beyond incredible
3 months agokendallcradick
So proud of everything you have accomplished and I can’t wait to see what the world has in store for you💜
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