Dear Sir/Madam,
Lisa O'Brien, a new mum living with epilepsy, is supporting Epilepsy Action’s campaign An ideal World For Women by writing a blog which focuses on her epilepsy and, in particular, how this effects having children, and family life.
The campaign aims to highlight the treatment needs of women with epilepsy. This ranges from the onset of puberty; pre-conception counselling; joint maternity care with a midwife and an epilepsy specialist nurse; information on how epilepsy can impact on caring for a baby; through to the effects of the menopause.
Lisa had a baby girl in July and she's hoping that, by doing this blog, other people with epilepsy will contact her and share their experiences. Lisa and her husband, Matthew, have found having a baby and coping on a daily basis somewhat stressful.
Their little girl, Rhiannon, is a beautiful and happy baby. Whilst they knew before having her that Lisa's epilepsy would make how they cope with being parents different to the average parent, it is sometimes difficult. Having had several seizures last month on the same day has brought home the potential dangers of being a parent with epilepsy.
If anyone reading this has been in a similar position and would like to share their experiences, Lisa and her husband would be interested to hear from you. You can visit her blog and post a message on http://epilepsyidealworld.blogspot.com.
Yours faithfully,
Keeley Eastwood
Epilepsy Action