I’m closing in on day five in the hospital, undergoing testing to learn more about my epilepsy. We’re all praying for a seizure to happen. No pressure when I’m the patient who can’t seize when everyone wants me to. As if having epilepsy isn’t enough, trying to understand where it’s coming from is torture.
The bright side is the view I get of the Chicago city skyline.
Sunrise, sunset, storms and traffic are stunning. The view is a great preview of the fall marathon – motivation for me to get answers about my head so I can keep moving my feet. I’m surrounded by a hospital staff that makes me appreciate those in the health care industry even more. What they see and do for patients every day is beyond the EEG and IV.
I have had epilepsy nine years. In the race to show the seizures who’s boss, I am more committed than ever to beating it, being more honest about it and literally running for it – never from it. I feel a responsibility to spread the word. Also, selfishly, writing is good therapy when I have to go a week without lacing up.
While I am a fan of social media, I also feel it’s ruining our ability to keep in touch. We catch each other’s bright spots because no one really posts the dark ones. Or the real dark ones. We check in online and assume all our old friends, neighbors and loved ones are “great.” I’m guilty of it and I hate it. So here’s my before and after, July 4th to July 14th:
1 in 26 people will develop epilepsy in their lifetime but there are dozens of different kinds of seizures, not to mention one-third of patients can’t control it. I’m guessing I’ve written that before a few (hundred) times but I won’t stop until the cause gets more help, both awareness and funds, to make sure reasonable progress is made. Please click here to learn more and please donate.
Seizures took a lot away from me but the running shoes and race bibs are mine. Running, like this hospital stay, remind me to appreciate the small things in life. It’s lead me to close friends, a little renewed confidence and real emotional peace. I run for those who have helped me survive the journey as well as those whose seizures have stolen the journey they deserve.
Seize the Day with Sarah 