Hi, I’m Peter.

You may have seen my viral education TikTok or reel of me having a grand Mal seizure. The last two months have been the most terrifying and life-changing of my life, and I never imagined I’d be asking for help like this — but I’m currently unable to work or drive for the next 6 months due to a sudden epilepsy diagnosis.

What Happened

In early October, I began experiencing what were later identified as focal impaired awareness seizures. From the outside they looked like panic attacks or manic episodes — but inside they were intense neurological events involving terror, confusion, and memory loss. I often have no memory of what I say or do during them, including full conversations or entire days.

At the time, no one — including me — understood what was happening.

The Seizures That Changed Everything

On October 18, I had my first grand mal seizure. I woke up surrounded by EMTs, disoriented and injured, with no memory of the event. I had broken my foot, strained muscles, and was hospitalized.

On November 6, I suffered a second, more severe grand mal seizure. I was unconscious for hours and have no memory of the seizure, ambulance ride, ER visit, or getting home. After this, doctors officially diagnosed me with epilepsy.

How This Has Affected My Life

Since my diagnosis:

I cannot drive for 6 months

I’m not allowed to be home alone

I can’t swim or take baths

I’m paying for expensive anti-seizure medication out of pocket

I have over $6,500 in medical bills, with more testing still ahead

Not being able to drive has made working or finding work extremely difficult

I’m dealing with physical recovery, memory issues, and emotional fallout

All of this happened very suddenly, and it has completely disrupted my ability to support myself.

Why I’m Asking For Help

Between medical bills, medication, transportation, rent, and basic living costs, I’ve reached a point where I can’t manage this alone. Even a small amount of help — whether toward groceries, bills, or medication — would make an enormous difference while I stabilize and focus on my health.

A Silver Lining

As painful as this has been, my fiancée and I have been working closely with our therapists and doctors and finally understand the root cause of months of confusion and distress. We’re rebuilding with clarity and compassion, and she has been absolutely incredible helping care for me through this.

Thank You

This is the hardest thing I’ve ever had to share, but I’m hopeful. I’m doing everything I can to heal, stay safe, and regain stability — and if you’re able to help in any way, I’m deeply grateful.

Thank you for reading, sharing, and caring.

— Peter