MacLean Family “It’s every parent’s nightmare. Something was wrong. Doctors explained that our son Jacob has epilepsy and that there is no cure. We were devastated. I spent days and nights — tears streaming down my face — just holding Jacob and wondering how on earth we were going to find the strength to help our son. And then it hit me. Tears weren’t going to help but smiles, love and normalcy would. I contacted the Epilepsy Foundation Western/Central Pennsylvania. They helped us to learn more about epilepsy. They sent a staff person to Jacob’s pre-school to help us educate the teachers, principal and staff about Jacob’s epilepsy. It gave us peace of mind should Jacob have a seizure at school. And we met other families facing epilepsy and realized that our son doesn’t have to let epilepsy hold him back and it doesn’t mean that we have to live life differently, just because Jacob has seizures. Jacob is 6 years old now. He’s become our hero. He is the most bright, wonderful child you could ever image. ” Don’t let your child’s epilepsy steal away any more of your precious family moments — contact the Epilepsy Foundation Western/Central Pennsylvania. Click here to learn more about Jacob and his family Helpful Links for Parents Services and Supports for Parents and Families ParentLink Newsletter for Parents Education Events and Workshops Social Events and Support Networks Parent Discussion Board Special Education Project School Alert Diagnosis and Treatment of Epilepsy Facts First Aid Communicating With Your Physician Advocacy Parent Support Group Other Links CHIP — Children’s Health Insurance Program Achieva Special Kids Network Parent Education Network

For Parents

Having a child with epilepsy/seizure disorder has a great impact on the entire family, especially parents. It can be frustrating dealing with medication changes, side effects, school issues, and the seizures themselves.

The way a parent perceives the child’s seizures affects the way the child understands them, as well. It is important to help maintain your child’s self-esteem and self-confidence by discussing their seizures openly and answering all questions. Encouraging other family members to learn about and understand epilepsy will help your child feel at ease.

You naturally want to protect your child from certain risks due to their seizure disorder. Children with epilepsy should participate in many activities typical of their age group. Many sports and other after-school events are safe ways to encourage your child.

Families that are open and accepting and build on a child’s strengths can make a positive difference in a child’s life.

For more information or to discuss your child’s needs, contact the Children & Family Services Coordinator at 800-361-5885 or staff@efwp.org.

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