This Documentary Shows What It's Like to Be Young and Have Epilepsy
Worldwide, about 50 million people live with epilepsy, a chronic brain disorder that causes seizures, according to the World Health Organization. A ton of lifestyle adjustments need to be made when a person has this potentially life-threatening condition.
In its new documentary, “Epilepsy and Me,” BBC Three, a channel in the U.K., is taking a look into the day-to-day lifestyles of young people with epilepsy. “Epilepsy And Me,” which aired Monday, is part of BBC Three’s “Defying the Label” season, which features 15 programs examining life for young people with disabilities.
Other relevant stories:
• Can I Smoke with Epilepsy
• Autism and Epilepsy
• Can Epilepsy Come Back After Years
The character-driven observational documentary illustrates what it’s like to live with the invisible, often misunderstood disorder.
BBC Three also posed a question to its viewers on Twitter while the show aired: What’s it like growing up with a hidden disability?
What’s it like growing up with a hidden disability? #EpilepsyAndMe, on now pic.twitter.com/2MfDnYAUDF
— BBC Three (@bbcthree) August 10, 2015
People responded, sharing their personal experiences with epilepsy and thoughts on the new documentary.
“Glad they’re talking about the different types of seizures, and that we all don’t need to be shielded from flashing lights,” one Twitter user wrote.
Glad they’re talking about the different types of seizures, and that we all don’t need to be shielded from flashing lights #EpilepsyAndMe
— shelley meechan (@shelleyschamber) August 10, 2015
“#EpilepsyAndMe showing that epilepsy isn’t just people falling to the floor and shaking. Should be compulsory viewing. #putsinperspective,” another user wrote.
#EpilepsyAndMe showing that epilepsy isn’t just people falling to the floor and shaking. Should be compulsory viewing. #putsinperspective
— Nick Lowe (@_nick_lowe_) August 10, 2015
“Epilepsy will never define us!” one user exclaimed.
You can watch “Epilepsy And Me” through BBC iPlayer if you live in the U.K. Check out a preview of the show that features Jack, who has to be supervised on a date incase he has a seizure and needs medication.
Margaret is excited to join The Mighty team for the summer as an editorial intern. She is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in journalism from the University of Southern California. A California native, Margaret loves going to the beach. She studied abroad in London for the spring semester and has caught the travel bug. In her free time, Margaret enjoys working out, baking and spending time with her family.
margaret-lenker