My Story…
My Journey with Epilepsy and My Commitment to Giving Back
Growing up, I was fortunate to be healthy, but at the age of 14, I was diagnosed with epilepsy, a condition that would drastically change the course of my life. The diagnosis was overwhelming, and I found myself struggling to accept that I might never lead a "normal" life again. My parents were understandably concerned, and the constant worry took a toll on both of us. I was even removed from traditional school and transitioned to online education to manage my condition. Every seizure meant a trip to the children’s hospital for an EEG, often resulting in weeks of hospitalization.
The most heart-wrenching part of this journey was having to give up my passion for sports, something I had dedicated much of my life to. My future felt uncertain, and I was unsure if I would ever be able to engage in physical activities again.
At the age of 17, I received life-changing news: I was a candidate for a Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS) implant. Given that I was experiencing multiple seizures a day, doctors felt this was a necessary step, though there was no guarantee it would work. To my immense relief, the device proved successful, and I’ve been seizure-free for over a year.
Today, I am proud to say that I am preparing for my first half marathon. I never imagined I would be able to run or engage in exercise again, but now I am doing just that. This accomplishment is not just a personal milestone—it is a testament to the progress I’ve made and the support I’ve received along the way.
As part of my journey, I want to give back to the organization that has played such a significant role in my life: the children’s hospital. My experiences there inspired me to raise funds to support the children who are currently in the same place I once was. My goal is to show them that recovery is possible, and that with the right care and determination, they can overcome any obstacle.
Furthermore, I aspire to work as a Child Life Specialist at the children’s hospital once I complete my education. I am passionate about supporting young patients through their medical journeys and helping them and their families navigate the emotional challenges of hospitalization.
Your support through this fundraising effort would mean the world to me and to the children whose lives can be changed with the right care and resources. Thank you for helping me make a difference in the lives of children who need it the most.
Description
As part of Team Children's, my participation in the 2023 Pittsburgh Marathon supports UPMC Children's Hospital Foundation.
Funds support the patients and families served by UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh. Last year UPMC Children's Hospital had over 1 million patient visits and many of the programs, initiatives, and resources that make UPMC Children’s so special are funded by philanthropic gifts. Things like distraction therapy which provides patients something else to focus on during their medical procedures, the Child Life Department which provides many activities to create a sense of normalcy for hospitalized children, and the Free Care Fund which covers the cost of medical care for those that cannot afford it. These areas are not covered by insurance, yet are critically important to helping families face the many challenges that accompany a child’s treatment.
Please consider donating to support the patient champions at UPMC Children's! You can donate directly on this page or send a check to the address below and make a note that you are sponsoring my efforts.
UPMC Children’s Hospital Foundation
Attention: Pittsburgh Marathon
4401 Penn Ave
Pittsburgh, PA 15224
Recent donors
| Donation date | Donor name | Donation amount |
|---|---|---|
| Mar 13 | Ranger Kessler | $11.50 |
| Mar 13 | Meyer Family | $27.48 |
| Mar 13 | Jennifer Chaikcic | $54.10 |
| Mar 11 | Teresa Gallagher | $27.48 |
| Mar 11 | Nichole Troup-Dye | $27.48 |
| Mar 11 | Kay Moran | $22.15 |
| Mar 11 | Jamie Brooks | $11.50 |
| Mar 11 | Anonymous | Undisclosed amount |
| Mar 11 | Lori Rosensteel | $32.80 |
