Epilepsy Support, Wilmslow welcomes anyone with epilepsy (and family/ friends), to meet others ‘in the same boat’ for a monthly informal get-together.
We are here to listen and share experiences in a confidential, non-judgemental setting. For some it might be an opportunity to make new friends, reduce isolation, increase confidence and be signposted to useful information. (Please be aware that this is a peer support space, not a counselling service).
Whatever your circumstances you will be most welcome to join us.
Cathy shares her story below on her motivation to setting up a group in Wilmslow for people living with epilepsy:
Our son developed epilepsy over twenty years ago following a major family trauma. Like most people, up until that point, my husband and I knew nothing about epilepsy, but we’ve learnt a lot over the years. Our son’s episodes proved to be difficult to control, so initially we spent much time befriending our local paramedics and visiting A&E!
Under our circumstances it became plain that many of the episodes we were witnessing had a psychological aspect as he was diagnosed with not only epilepsy but NEAD, Non-Epileptic Attack Disorder. (NEAD is a psychiatric condition often prompted by trauma). However, with specialist help from a Neuropsychologist we eventually managed to minimize the frequency of these attacks.
Additionally, he had a VNS (Vagus Nerve Stimulator) implant in 2011. There was no guarantee this would be beneficial but even within a few months his seizures vastly reduced in number and he, and we, finally returned to a more normal life.
In my opinion, knowledge is power and Epilepsy Action provided this with their magazine, website and literature. We attended a local support group, online groups and populated our wardrobes with all things purple for fundraising events! Suddenly we met people of all ages, from all walks of life who had epilepsy too and so WE WEREN’T ALONE ANYMORE. These people really understood the issues that epilepsy (often invisible to others), may cause. We were able to exchange experiences, coping strategies, practical tips and even share a bit of dark humour about our uniqueness. We have now set up our own group in Wilmslow, supporting people in Cheshire.
We are still not totally seizure free but feel much lighter and know we have somewhere to go along with the 630,000 living with the condition in the UK, (one in 100) and the 80 people who are newly diagnosed every day.
Power to all things purple!
Please be aware that this group is not affiliated with Epilepsy Action and we do not take responsibility for its activities.
This is an independent group and any inquiries should be directed to the group itself. By participating in this group, your personal data may be processed according to the groups own policies and procedures.
Epilepsy Action does not endorse or verify the information shared within the group. If you do need quality checked epilepsy information or support please call the Epilepsy Action helpline on 0808 800 5050