Dear Mom & Dad, Epilepsy Can't Beat Us

Dear Mom and Dad,

I wanted to take a little time today (this blog) to thank you for all you’ve done for me throughout my epilepsy battle. You two have truly made it an easier path for me from day one, and I can’t thank you enough for it. I know there will be plenty of more challenges that will be heading our way, and I know we’re ready to take them head on.

Mom; you’re the one that helps me keep the faith when things get a little rough. I mean, not many moms out there would get a “Faith” tattoo when their son gets his first tattoo. I’ve definitely put you through a lot, from the first hospital visit when I was nine to our amazing time at the clinic for my SEEG. Through it all, you helped make it easier for me by taking my mind off things when it got tough. I know when you get that text from my watch about my seizures it drives you crazy, but I appreciate your “are you okay” texts all the time. Forget the bad, you have been there for me for good too. Sneaking a few photos (which you’re good at) at the news station when I had my segment on TV was awesome. You’re also an amazing chauffeur for me listening to our good friend Rob Banks! Thanks for everything you’ve done for me so far, and I can’t wait for what’s ahead.

Dad; the “you can do anything you want” attitude came from you. I don’t know many dads out there who would put their son on the pitcher's mound the night after his seizure. I like to think that it taught both of us that we can do anything despite epilepsy. I can’t thank you enough for allowing me to wrestle throughout middle and high school. Wrestling was one of the key factors in preparing to fight epilepsy teaching me mental toughness, facing struggles, and self-awareness. You probably know the last two, and I can’t thank you. Being positive! No matter how tough things get, you taught me that you need to look at the positives. It definitely has helped with everything now, but I still get that message from you. Finally, the importance of asking questions and being patient. After listening and watching you at countless doctors appointments, it’s clear now that you need all the facts before jumping into something. It may require waiting, but you want the best for your body and lifestyle moving forward. Thanks for everything, and I can’t wait to keep facing these challenges on with you.

It’s been a journey, but I appreciate all that you two have done for me. My strength to inspire others comes from you, and I can’t wait to see what the future holds for my epilepsy journey.

Love ya,

Kyle