I have Seizures; Seizures Do Not Have Me

Ava is a 49 year old resident of Fort Lauderdale, FL. Ava has been having seizures since she was about 12 years old. She has been a member of Epilepsy Alliance Florida since 2003 and has been helped with both medical services and case management services in the past.

About 4 years ago, Ava’s daughter, Samarra, also started having seizures and got registered for assistance as well. Ava was looking for help finding a neurologist and obtaining access to her daughter’s medication. Her case manager assisted her with both of these needs, but Samarra was still in need of assistance. She was only 9 when she was diagnosed and was having a hard time with all of the changes that presented when faced with epilepsy: starting medication, learning about seizures and explaining seizures to her peers to start.

Her case manager assisted her with several opportunities to increase socialization and engagement. Since joining, she participated in Camp Boggy Creek, Movie theater outings with fellow campers, virtual support groups, family dinners, sporting events and much more. Her mother stated that she has made friends from camp and continues to remain in touch with them. She also noted that Samarra is a much happier child now.

Epilepsy Alliance Florida has also assisted with school trainings and testing to ensure Samarra is receiving the appropriate accommodations in the classroom. Ava is grateful for all of the assistance and feels both of their lives have greatly improved with the services provided. When asked if she plans to continue participating in Epilepsy Alliance Florida’s services, Ava stated

“We will be a part of Epilepsy Alliance Florida as long as it stands. They love us like their families and we love them also.”