To My 7-Year-Old Self When the Doctor Said ‘Epilepsy’
I want you to know you are here for a reason today. This place Mommy brought you is odd and unfamiliar, but soon it is going to play a huge role in your 7-year-old life. Epilepsy. Have you heard that word? You will soon, when the scary doctor comes back into the room. Before he does, remember this. Know that what makes you different from others does not define you. You have the strength and the love in you and around you to overcome any challenge.
When lupus comes for you, the only thing you can do is throw many a temper tantrum. When grand mal seizures come, hold on to hope and hold your head high. If you feel like life is unfair, you’re right. I can’t tell you how or when things play out — that would ruin the amazing journey of a life you’re about to have.
Other relevant stories:
• Epilepsy Life Expectancy
• How Many Hours Should a Person with Epilepsy Sleep
• Can People with Epilepsy Drive
Please, Camille, treasure each experience you have over the next 10 years, because your unique experiences will shape you into the person you will grow to be. I want you to embrace your stubbornness as well as the empathy you have in that big heart — they will help you survive. And embrace that big “scary” doctor, too. He could come in handy.
Do you want to know why you’re here? One day, you will be that big scary doctor, and you will be able to say you were the patient. You’re going to change lives, Camille. For now, focus on making the best of your life. I never want you to forget you were fearfully and wonderfully made, just to be you.
Camille Prairie is 17 years old. She’s in her senior year of high school and when she’s not doing schoolwork she likes to read, watch “Gilmore Girls” and hang out with friends, preferably at coffee shops. She also enjoys having juvenile myoclonic epilepsy that is currently dormant, so she can terrorize the streets of Greensboro, North Carolina, where she lives, with her driving.
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