Alyssa's Fight with Epilepsy

My name is Anjelique and my daughter is Alyssa, she is 27 years old and has lived with Epilepsy for the last 24 years. Almost 2 years ago Alyssa developed what is known as “Cluster Seizures” which cause her to have multiple seizures back to back with no time for her body to recover in between. On Tuesday, August 22 Alyssa was found on her bathroom floor unconscious after numerous seizures, the ambulance was called, and she was rushed to emergency. The doctors had to make the decision to intubate her after various unsuccessful attempts to stop the seizures. Alyssa was admitted to the ICU on the breathing tube and our journey continued as the doctors closely monitored her. A cat scan was done which showed no bruising or bleeding of the brain, from her initial fall which we know was only by God’s grace.

Initially, we all assumed these seizures were part of her lifelong epilepsy battle, so her neurologists have been working to titrate her seizure meds but with little to no resolve. We’ve now discovered that Alyssa has developed pseudo seizures which can be a result of living so many years with epilepsy & life traumas. Approximately 10-25% of people with epilepsy also have Pseudo seizures. The next step is for a week long admission to the epilepsy clinic where video EEG monitoring will take place, they will take her off all seizure medications and let her seize in a controlled environment to capture brain activity or “map her brain”. We are hopeful to have answers soon.

Alyssa is home now, with doctors finally giving recommendations for around the clock IN HOME CARE, something I’ve wanted for years. However, in the meantime Alyssa cannot be left alone as she requires someone with her at all times. As we navigate thru the many steps, procedures, and appointments required to make this all happen we are all trading off between stays with her so her wife, Jaelene can try to maintain her job. There is insurance, however she has monthly bills (like everyone else) to pay. Our family will continue to help her in every way possible, but everyone keeps asking what they can do to help and truly cash flow is and will continue to be her primary need. Any donation to help with Alyssa’s financial burden and aid in her recovery would be appreciated. If you are not able to make a monetary donation, please know that the prayers, good vibes, and well wishes are just as much needed and appreciated to get her through this trying time. Thank you all for the love and support you’ve shown our family, we truly appreciate it all.