Why do they call us “the patient”
We are not patient. We endure.
“Suicide Risk from 11 Anti-Epilepsy Drugs,” headlines blared across the country.
But we’re still here.
Was it sensationalism by the journalists, irresponsibility by the pharmaceutical industry or laxness of the FDA?
The answer is none of the above. And, by the way, they forgot to include antidepressants.
At best, I’d call it a misunderstanding. At worst, I’d call it manipulation.
The problem I had writing this article was that I was having too much fun! I kept on getting detained playing games, but it was worth it. Some I did o.k. on, others I flunked miserably. They’re fun, they’re challenging, and I think you’ll really like them.
Here are just a few examples:
I have a confession to make.
I was the queen of “Post-Its”. I had Post-Its on tables, counters, walls, doors. I don’t know how I lived without them.
I guess, in the “old” days, I was the same with lists. Many lists. And way too much Scotch Tape.
Factoid: The man who invented Post-Its was an employee at 3M (also the maker of Scotch Tape) who went to his boss with a bright new idea.
I don’t know if he got a raise, but he gets no royalties. Just my undying admiration and thanks.
Anyway, short of taking stock in 3M, here are some other suggestions…
Just for fun, I’ve started a list of “all things purple”.
What are some purple things you can think of?
To say that lack of memory is a major worry for those of us with epilepsy is hardly a surprise.
In fact, it’s the number one concern.
Imagine if you had genetic intractable epilepsy and you were able to have it treated by inserting a simple gene into your cells.
Without surgery. Without drugs.
Sound scary? Too futuristic?
Well, that research is here. Now.
It might sound high-tech, but for many people living with neurological conditions, infusion therapy has become one of the most promising instruments in their treatment toolbox.
“I have TLE and I use marijuana to help with my seizures. If I feel one coming usually MJ will stop it. Or, if I have a cluster of them, I find that MJ usually will stop them. It overall makes me feel normal and better after having them. But, of course this is not everyone’s experience with it. Just mine!”
You might call them “imitators” of epilepsy, but that’s kind of extreme. You might say “similar” or you might say “confused”, which I think they are.