Epilepsy is like having a stalker you know about who is Hell bent on killing you. No matter where you go, you know he's out there following your every move, to the store, the library, school, hair dresser or the doctors. You have to be wary, constantly looking around for him, always on alert. And just when you relax, BAM, Next thing you know you're waking up in an ambulance, in urine soaked clothing, needing stitches or a cast or even surgery.
And Fear. Fear that the seizures will harm you, or even take your life. Oh we all know we'll die some day, but somehow it's just more frightful when epilepsy is involved.
Another part is how our loved ones respond to our condition. Most people's knowledge of epilepsy comes form Hollywood's rendition, which is total bullshit. Not everyone understands either. My mother was a nurse but really didn't have a clue about epilepsy.
Dealing with fears and stresses like those are hard. But there are basics that help.
1. Educate those who are important to you, if they don't get it, then that's THEIR problem, not yours.
2. There are worse things than epilepsy. Can she see? Can she hear? Walk? Great! To lose those abilities are more horrendous then epilepsy in my world. It's important to put epilepsy in proper perspective in regards to your live.
3. I am not allowed to drive, but that doesn't stop me from getting around and doing what I want or need to do. It's a pain in the ass to have a constant body guard but then, I always have someone to talk to.
4. Be kind to yourself. Take care of yourself and treat yourself occasionally. Small things really do mean a lot and a hug can mean the world.
5. My own personal advice to anyone over stressed---take a bubble-bath. Light scented candles, play soothing music if you wish and soak in a bubble-bath. ABSOLUTELY NO interruptions. You will feel so much better and then be ready to handle the world afterwords
I hope Catherine can see she is a is a very lucky woman to have such a caring person as you in her life, Bobby.
