A Shimmer of Hope
Paulina Diaz is a 50 year old female, who began experiencing seizures at the age of 12 years old. She experienced tonic – clonic, complex – partial and absence seizures throughout the years. Mrs. Diaz was treated with medication and later brain surgery was conducted, due to arachnoid cyst. In which cyst was removed several centimeters in size. Client had periods of stability with her seizures and then periods of increased breakthroughs. Throughout all this time Mrs. Diaz didn’t have immediate neurological attention, and was not receiving proper medical assistance.
In addition, Mrs. Diaz shares that before starting Epilepsy Alliance Florida services, she had problems not only due to the condition of the epilepsy: but frequent attacks, often going to the emergency room, depression, lack of medicines, and lack of medical attention. Paulina did not have the financial resources to be able to pay for all medical services. Mrs. Diaz’s life, marriage, work and social life was extremely affected by this condition.
Furthermore, Thanks to a friend who referred Paulina to EAF in 2012, her life, her children’s lives changed completely, and recover social activities. Paulina was able to obtain ongoing neurological assistance with Dr. Marisa Prego-Lopez through EFL, as well as Anti Epileptic Drugs at no charge. After the ongoing neurological care, Paulina has been seizure free for over 2 years and has been able to go back to normal. Moreover, as Paulina states “Thanks to all the services provided by EFL, such as support groups, outing events and support from my case manager Diana Cruz, have made me have a normal life and not feel helpless.” Paulina feels very happy and thankful for everyone on the organization, and hopes to continue participating in all the activities and events of Epilepsy Alliance Florida.