Meet Ryan, an inspiring individual whose journey with epilepsy and connection with Epilepsy Durham Region highlights the transformative power of community support.
Ryan is 25 years old, and is currently completing his final year of Computer Systems and Technology degree at Durham College. He tells us, “I have always been incredibly curious and my love of all things technology helps me explore that.” He loves to spend time with his friends, care for his dog Marshall, and watching nostalgic cartoons. Ryan dedicates much of his spare time volunteering at Durham College, helping to create an inclusive college experience; connecting with others and making sure that no one feels alone is a passion of Ryan’s.
Ryan’s journey with epilepsy began at 15, when he was diagnosed with temporal lobe epilepsy, marked by focal seizures. Life with epilepsy has been difficult, especially as he navigated the challenges of his teenage years and early adulthood. Ryan’s seizures regularly result in traumatizing injuries, including concussion, bruises, and 2nd and 3rd degree burns which required surgery.
Following the passing of Ryan’s mom, a friend’s mother recommended connecting with Epilepsy Durham Region to help learn more about his condition, and the supports available to him. In 2022, when Ryan’s worry surrounding his lack of knowledge about his condition became overwhelming, he sought the support of EDR’s programs and services.
The connection with Epilepsy Durham Region helped Ryan to understand his condition, and build the confidence needed to improve his disease self-management, helping him to thrive in his community and academically. He recounts,
“It’s so beautiful and helpful because Epilepsy Durham Region has showed me the ways of taking care of myself because gosh, I cant lie, without EDR there might be a big chance that I would probably be homeless or not able to take care of myself. You have showed me so many things.”
But Ryan’s story doesn’t end there. He is actively involved with Epilepsy Durham Region and Durham College through volunteer efforts, including launching and spearheading the Durham College Epilepsy Association to create a safe and inclusive environment for peers with epilepsy at college. This has not only boosted his confidence, but is helping him work toward the completion of his college degree, especially with the newfound challenges of losing his father in summer 2024 and navigating next steps as he awaits brain surgery to manage his seizures.
Ryan’s mission is to ensure that no one ever feels alone with epilepsy. He encourages others to reach out to EDR and the Durham College Epilepsy Association, to share their epilepsy story, and to teach others how to help people with epilepsy.
