Cedar,

It is hard on a person at a time like this. I have lived for over 40 years with Epilepsy. Because I have had in so early in life with it I feel as though it has made me strong.

Sure in young age it hurt alot but I did manage to get through it. At this time I think anyone on earth has a handicap of something in their life weather it comes early or late. With the experience of Epilepy helps me to accept others with their sititutions with open arms.

One other thing I feel is I had rather have Epilepy rather than many other handicaps.

My thoughts and prayers are with you.

Darlene

Hello Cedar,

I have found over the last 3 years since the E got much worse, that those EX-friends who call themselves spiritual, and open and non-judgemental have been the worst in their treatment of me.

They believe that epilepsy is a mental illness...and no matter how much I apologised (which was something I shouldn't have to do), they retreated more and more.

If people behave in such a manner then they were never friends anyway, and probably wanted something form you (support or whatever) and when it somes to them supporting you, it doesn't happen...

Hon not all people are like this, and those who are real friends show it quickly and easily...offering and backing up with any suport they can give...So don't give up, as there are real people out there, and they will befriend you for who you are not typify you for a brain disease that yu have no control over...

(((((HUGS))))) hon...

Thank you all for your kind words and personal sharing. I do agree it is a hard thing to have to experience and I feel lonely someof the time. I just can not understand where peoples hearts are. But I quess that is the difference between many people.

I also think of those who find it hard to be my friend whether family or a friend. How much they tend to take for grated then when somethnigs hits close to home they find it real hard.

So I just have to hold us all who deal with a disability, handicap or chronic condition like Epilepsy that we will be the ones who help those down the road from our life experience.

Thank you all for being here and being kind. Need that in this world.
Blessings of Peace, Cedar

((((((((((((Cedar)))))))))))))).

I agree completely with Rhiannon's post. It's sad and appalling how much ignorance is still out there. I personally think EFA still needs to do something about this, and as much as churches preach "love thy neighbor," many of them seem clueless about true support and unconditional love.

The best thing you can do is to continue to be yourself and educate people around you. My own parents would have nothing to do with my trying to talk about my epi for over 20 years--until a reaction to Tegretol nearly ended my life. Then I forced them to listen, and today, they'll both tell you they're glad I did.

Surround yourself with supportive people--whether online or in your "real" daily life, and preferably both. There are compassionate people out there. Join a local epi support group. You'll be able to meet others who, just as we do, know what it's like to live with epi and deal not only with szs but all the effects of treatment. Attending the meetings regularly may even help you with sz control.


(((((((((((((HUGS))))))))))))))), and good luck!

LIZARD

I went through the same thing. It was called mental illness or that I was crazy. My friends did not want to be around me because they were afraid I would have a seizure when I was with them. Even though I explained about my type of seizure they avoided me.
I was so sad and depressed by it, but finally moved away, got started in my own business and made new friends. Now that I am disabled and unable to work, I am all alone again, but have been going to church where the few friends I have left go, and as a result I have made new friends.
My heart goes out to you and I will keep you in my prayers. Also count me as a new on-line friend.