Stories of Hope
These stories reflect the real experiences of individuals and families across British Columbia who have connected with The Centre for Epilepsy and Seizure Education in BC. Each story represents a unique journey, from newly diagnosed individuals seeking answers, to families navigating complex care, to people looking for connection and understanding.
Through one to one support, trusted information, and community programs, ESEBC helps people feel more informed, more supported, and less alone. Whether someone is looking for guidance after a first seizure, support navigating healthcare, resources for school or workplace accommodations, or simply someone who understands, these stories highlight the meaningful difference that compassionate, personalized support can make.
“I can’t explain how much it means to finally feel heard.”
Alyssa M. – Saanich
Across British Columbia
Real stories from individuals and families who have received support, education, and connection through ESEBC. These experiences reflect the many ways epilepsy can impact daily life, and how access to trusted information, compassionate guidance, and community support can help individuals and families feel more confident, informed, and less alone.
Sarah C. – Merritt
After experiencing new seizures, Sarah felt overwhelmed and unsure where to begin. She connected with ESEBC to better understand her seizure types and what steps she could take. Through one to one support, she learned about triggers, treatment options, and practical strategies for daily life. “For the first time I understand my seizure types and what I can do about them. I left with real options and a feeling that I finally have a plan.”
Ray D. – Courtenay
Ray had been living with epilepsy for years but still felt uncertain about his care. After reaching out to ESEBC, he received guidance on tracking seizures, preparing for appointments, and understanding available resources. “One call with ESEBC turned the noise into clear steps. I felt more confident asking my neurologist the right questions.”
Emily Z. – Chilliwack
Emily was feeling isolated and unsure how to manage her epilepsy day to day. ESEBC provided resources, education, and support to help her make small changes that improved her confidence. “ESEBC helped me see that I am not alone and that small changes can add up. I now have resources to try and someone to lean on.”
Laura G. – Maple Ridge
When Laura’s child was diagnosed, she worried about safety at school. ESEBC helped her create a seizure action plan and provided information to share with teachers. “ESEBC helped us create a seizure plan for the classroom. I can finally breathe and trust that his teachers know what to do.”
Suzanne W. – Trail
Suzanne reached out during a difficult time while navigating epilepsy in her family. ESEBC provided compassionate support and helpful information. “The care, kindness, and warmth I received was more than I could have expected. I was guided every step of the way.”
Chris M. – Surrey
Chris was facing barriers accessing care and support. ESEBC helped him connect with resources and explore options. “The centre went above and beyond to help me access dental care and financial supports. Their kindness changed my life.”
What Clients Are Saying
Short reflections from individuals and families supported by ESEBC.
“I feel more confident and in control of my condition.”
Alka V. – Chilliwack“The resources you sent helped my daughter at school.”
Andrew M. – Coquitlam“Mandala Art provides me with a monthly escape.”
Beatrix N. – Kamloops“I’m connecting with others who understand my struggle.”
Elizabeth C. – Burnaby“I feel a lot less lonely and supported.”
Rehan J. – Surrey“You have been my rock over the last few years.”
Sharon A. – RichmondFeatured Stories
Longer stories that reflect the real impact of support, advocacy, education, and connection through ESEBC.
Barry K. – Prince George
After experiencing his first seizure, Barry felt frightened, overwhelmed, and unsure where to begin. Like many people who are newly navigating epilepsy, he suddenly found himself with more questions than answers. He was trying to understand what had happened, what he should be asking his neurologist, how to stay safe, and what supports might be available to him moving forward.
Barry was especially interested in seizure detection devices, but he did not know where to start or which options were available in Canada. When he reached out to The Centre for Epilepsy and Seizure Education in BC, he was provided with detailed information about devices, smartwatches, and seizure tracking apps, along with clear explanations of features, costs, and how different options could work together to improve safety and peace of mind.
Along the way, Barry was also encouraged to ask to be placed on a cancellation list for his MRI, a simple but important suggestion that could potentially help move the process along faster. These small but meaningful pieces of guidance helped him feel more informed, more prepared, and less alone during a very uncertain time.
With the support he received, Barry was able to purchase a device on his own and download an app that gave him greater peace of mind. He also learned about ESEBC’s Epilepsy Connect support group, giving him another pathway to connection and understanding as he continues navigating life after his diagnosis.
Barry’s story shows how timely support, practical information, and compassionate guidance can make a meaningful difference for someone facing the uncertainty of a first seizure.
Warren D. – Interior BC
Warren reached out to ESEBC during an incredibly difficult and uncertain time in his life. After living with epilepsy for several years with relatively good seizure control, he experienced a breakthrough seizure that changed everything. Although the seizure did not happen while he was driving, the impact on his livelihood was immediate.
Warren had built his life around his work as a truck driver. It was more than a job. It was his routine, his sense of independence, and the way he provided for his family. After the breakthrough seizure, his employer removed him from the schedule, and shortly after, he lost his job altogether. The sudden loss of work, income, and stability left him feeling overwhelmed and unsure how to move forward.
When Warren connected with ESEBC, he was looking for guidance on driving restrictions, employment concerns, and what steps he should take next. During the conversation, time was spent walking through his seizure history, helping him better understand what may have contributed to the breakthrough seizure, and outlining questions he could bring to his neurologist.
ESEBC provided clear information about driving guidelines in British Columbia for people living with epilepsy, including what is generally required before working toward reinstatement. He was also given support in preparing for medical appointments so he could advocate for himself more confidently and ask the right questions about treatment, seizure control, and future planning.
In addition, Warren was provided with information about financial and community supports that may help while he is unable to work. This included resources related to the Disability Tax Credit, provincial supports, employment services, workplace rights, and the medical documentation that may be needed as he navigates a major shift in his life and career.
Warren’s story reflects how epilepsy can affect employment, confidence, independence, and a person’s sense of direction. It also shows how important it is to have someone to talk to when life changes so suddenly.
Kenneth C. – Prince George
Kenneth reached out to ESEBC because he was struggling with the effects of his epilepsy medication. He was taking Dilantin, but instead of feeling better, he was dealing with tremors, severe mood swings, anxiety, and depression. These side effects were affecting his daily life and leaving him feeling worried, discouraged, and unsure what to do next.
Like many people navigating medication challenges, Kenneth did not know how to safely move forward. He was concerned about the medication he was taking, but also knew that stopping it suddenly could create more risks. He needed practical guidance, reliable information, and someone who would take his concerns seriously.
ESEBC helped Kenneth understand the importance of not stopping seizure medication on his own and encouraged him to speak with his doctor about what he was experiencing. He was supported in taking the next steps through the healthcare system, including booking an appointment at a clinic in Prince George, which then referred him to a neurologist in Kelowna.
While waiting for the specialist appointment, ESEBC continued to follow up and provide support. He was given encouragement, help understanding the referral process, and information about what other options might be available if the referral was delayed or if additional support was needed while he waited.
ESEBC also supported Kenneth’s girlfriend by providing resources to help her better understand epilepsy and what he was going through. That added support meant a lot to both of them and helped them feel more prepared as they faced the uncertainty of new referrals, medication issues, and next steps together.
Kenneth’s story highlights the value of ongoing support, education, and follow up when someone is navigating medication side effects, healthcare referrals, and the emotional strain that often comes with epilepsy.
Lyla L. – Logan Lake
Living with epilepsy and anxiety can be incredibly challenging, especially when anxiety itself can trigger seizures. Lyla shared that stress and anxiety have been a major part of her epilepsy journey, often leaving her feeling overwhelmed and struggling to find ways to calm her mind and body.
After joining ESEBC’s Mandala Art program, Lyla discovered a creative outlet that brought her a greater sense of peace and control. Through mandala dotting, she found a calming activity that helped her slow down, focus, and redirect her thoughts in a positive and supportive way.
Over time, Lyla noticed that taking part in the program helped reduce her anxiety levels. While it is not a cure and does not eliminate seizures completely, the practice gave her a tool she could turn to when she was feeling overwhelmed. For Lyla, that sense of calm and routine has made a meaningful difference.
She also shared that since starting the Mandala Art program, she has experienced fewer seizures and feels more confident in managing her anxiety. Just as important, the program helped her feel connected to something positive. Having access to a supportive, understanding community and a program designed with care helped her feel less isolated in what she was experiencing.
Lyla’s experience is a reminder that support can take many forms. Sometimes it comes through information and advocacy, and other times through creativity, connection, and the chance to take part in something that brings calm and comfort.
Lyla’s story highlights the impact that creative programs and community connection can have for individuals living with epilepsy, especially when anxiety plays such a significant role in daily life.
Privacy Notice: To protect client privacy, names and identifying details may be changed. Images on this page are stock photos and do not represent actual clients. Stories are shared with permission and may be adapted to protect confidentiality.