BC Epilepsy Scholarship Winners Announced
The BC Epilepsy Society is proud to announce that we have awarded eight scholarships worth $1000 each to individuals living with epilepsy throughout the province.
The winners will be entering or continuing their post-secondary studies in a range of fields. This includes visual arts, science, music, pharmacology, theatre, nursing, and child and youth care.
Here’s what some of them had to say about their experiences living with epilepsy along with their ideas for raising epilepsy awareness:
“Everyone needs to address and recognize that epilepsy is a normal thing and more common then they realize.”
“The impact of epilepsy on my life was something I had to respect, I had to learn its parameters and determine a new focus. It was then that I began to explore music. Music became my martial arts, it became my passion and the strength that carried me through my high school years. Music continues to help support me enhance my life experience. It was epilepsy that brought me to music, and that is why I intend to give back to the epilepsy community in the form of awareness through my art.”
“I was diagnosed with juvenile myoclonic epilepsy at 16 years, which resulted in development of strong character. In fact, one of the reasons I chose my field was to support children, youth, and families challenged by adversity. Over the years, I have learned to cope and maintain good health. I recognize the value of life and the need to take care. I have developed a strong sense of self and preserve to achieve my full potential. I have had to accept things I cannot do and believe in myself when I can succeed. I also recognize when I am not doing well physically and change what I am doing in order to get better.”
An individual going into pharmacology research writes, “As a result of my epilepsy and my continued struggles with medication I wanted to contribute back in some way and hopefully make a difference in the field of epilepsy.”
“I had a very tough time making it through middle school and high school for a few reasons. For instance, I was hospitalized multiple times, which made it hard to keep up with my school work., “Secondly, I had to face rumors and humiliation at school, which had a huge impact on my self-esteem These were the two biggest barriers I had to face, and I still have to work extra hard these days to overcome them”
“Being diagnosed in my 30s with epilepsy was a shock to me as well as my family, friends and coworkers. I was surprised how difficult it was for me to overcome the challenges and fears of having to live with epilepsy for the rest of my life.” “When I was finally able to begin accepting my diagnosis and started to share it with others, I was surprised that many people I spoke to also knew people in their lives that have been diagnosed with epilepsy. Being able to share my struggles and fears with those who have experienced it personally gave me the reassurance that people can live happy and full lives. I hope to be able to increase the quality and quantity of support groups available so people can share their problems and exchange the various ways they have coped with lifestyle changes.”
BC Epilepsy Society scholarships are available to British Columbia residents aged 16 and older, who are Canadian citizens or who have landed immigrant status, and who are currently under a Canadian physician’s care for epilepsy. An applicant must be a current member of the BC Epilepsy Society. Contact the BC Epilepsy Society at 604-875-6704 or at info@bcepilepsy.com for more information.
Posted by Elvira Balakshin at July 19, 2010 9:45 AM
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