Jacqueline Cortes joined Epilepsy Alliance Florida as a client in 2023. She’s among those who do not let their medical diagnosis define them.
Throughout her life, many have tried to create limitations for her due to her health, but she believes, with a bit of modification, anything is possible. She has an optimistic outlook on life and is confident in who she is and her abilities.
Jacqueline was diagnosed with epilepsy in her early 20s and, like many, went through trials with several medications. Over time, she stopped medication management and was no longer having seizures. Jacqueline took a leap of faith a few years later and moved to the United States to seek a better life. On May 1, 2023, she had her first seizure after ten years of being seizure-free. Having gone through this before, she knew she needed to see a specialist and was able to gather the funds to pay for an appointment. Jacqueline’s neurologist referred her to Epilepsy Alliance Florida for further support with her epilepsy care.
Since joining Epilepsy Alliance Florida, Jacqueline has received access to affordable neurological care and medication. Also in the short time she has been with the agency, she has joined many support groups and a client dinner. Through the support groups, she has gained a lot of knowledge about epilepsy, which has been a significant help for her and her family. Support groups have also helped her realize how different epilepsy is for everyone. She is grateful to have the opportunity to be in a room with individuals with whom she can relate. She appreciates how involved the agency is with the clients and feels supported in all aspects. Jacqueline feels happy to be able to connect with the agency on a more personal level and not just over the phone.
Although she is having seizures again, her attitude remains the same: she is hopeful for what’s to come and feels anything is possible.
