Skip main navigation

New offer! Get 30% off one whole year of Unlimited learning. Subscribe for just £249.99 £174.99. New subscribers only T&Cs apply

Find out more

Experiencing epilepsy: the case of Alice

This is the story of Alice, a girl diagnosed with epilepsy, told by herself.
10.7
Two years ago when I was 19 years old I was admitted to hospital where I stayed five months because I experienced a serious of seizures characterized by stupor. Regaining consciousness after seizures was so hard that I still remember the feeling. The diagnosis of epilepsy upset my life especially because it made me downsize my projects and lose my autonomy. For example I had to put off the beginning of my acadamic studies which I have not even started yet. I couldn’t apply for a study exchange experience abroad. I also had to give up short term plans like going on holiday with my friends.
51
Now I always wear a necklace indicating that I have epilepsy so people can be aware of my condition and help me if I have a seizure. I’m conscious that I have some language difficulties finding the right word can be especially hard for me. In addition, I find myself speaking my mind without paying attention to what I say. I also feel uneasy because I can’t keep up my attention for long and it is sometimes difficult for me to plan my daily activities. All this makes me sad but I’m looking very good to begin rehabilitation training because they really would like to put the clock back, so to speak. Luckily my parents and my twin sisters are incredible.
90.8
They have never stopped supporting me. To be sincere I think that now I know very well how my brain functions. What a special brain I have!

Alice shares her experience with epilepsy.

In the video Alice, a girl diagnosed with epilepsy, describes how this neurological disorder has affected her life.

In the comments, please share with us any personal experience you may have with epilepsy or tell us the story of a person close to you with this disorder.

This article is from the free online

Understanding Epilepsy and its Neuropsychology

Created by
FutureLearn - Learning For Life

Reach your personal and professional goals

Unlock access to hundreds of expert online courses and degrees from top universities and educators to gain accredited qualifications and professional CV-building certificates.

Join over 18 million learners to launch, switch or build upon your career, all at your own pace, across a wide range of topic areas.

Start Learning now