Epilepsy.

It is a word that conjures up feelings of fear, dread, the unknown, and of complex and not-understood medical terms. But, armed with the right information, epilepsy sufferers and even parents of epileptic children can fight through these feelings, and in turn find they have a greater chance of successfully treating seizures. 

In this episode of the Epilepsymoms podcast, Arlene Martell engages guest Dr, Robert Mittan in a candid discussion about the fundamental basics of seizures.

A complimentary follow-up to her previous podcasts about the ketogenic diet, Arlene Martell, founder of EpilepsyMoms.com, discusses the common concern that implementing the diet is “too much work” or is “too hard on parents and the child”. She welcomes guest, Dr. Deborah Snyder, author of “Keto Kid: Helping Your Child Succeed on the Ketogenic Diet”.  Although both women would admit that there is indeed dedication involved with properly following the diet, the myth that it is too hard to follow is one that they hope to dispel.

The ketogenic diet- now gaining popularity and recognition for seizure control and for even curing epilepsy- is an effective and increasingly used treatment in children. Although it is being respected for its effectiveness, it is often offered to parents as a last resort, only after medications and even surgeries fail.

Even the famous are not immune to the harsh reality of epilepsy. This was the case with Jim Abrahams, producer of hit comedy movies such as Airplane, Hot Shots, and The Naked Gun.  It is not his Hollywood success that Abrahams states as his biggest accomplishment, but rather his pro-active approach in curing his son’s seizures, uncovering a little known epilepsy treatment called the ketogenic diet, and spreading awareness of the treatment.

Most parents seeking treatment for their epileptic children have found their choices in treating their child's epilepsy are quite limited, if given any choice at all. Specialists often present the treatment of medication as the ONLY method of treatment, and parents might even feel bullied into accepting medications. While anti-convulsive medications do work well for treating many children, there are other effective treatments available.

Everyone who has a child with epilepsy understands the feeling of helplessness and isolation that often accompanies it. The fact is, in finding support in others and in educating those involved, you can find a great sense of hope in your journey through epilepsy.