Epilepsy is a neurological disorder of the central nervous system characterized by abnormal brain activity causing seizures or periods of odd behavior, sensations, and, in some cases, loss of consciousness.
Epilepsy can affect anyone, both men and women of all races, ethnicities, and ages.
A single seizure does not imply that you have epilepsy (up to 10% of people worldwide have one seizure during their lifetime). For an epilepsy diagnosis, at least two seizures without a known trigger at least 24 hours apart are generally required.
Do you know that epilepsy is one of the world’s oldest recognized conditions, with written records dating back to 4000 BCE?
The following are some historical figures who have been known to suffer from epilepsy:
- Socrates – Scholars hypothesized that he had a mild case of epilepsy due to some of his enigmatic behaviors and remarks.
- Joan of Arc – She may have epilepsy that affects part of the brain responsible for hearing.
- Napoleon Bonaparte – Evidence showed he had both psychogenic and epileptic attacks due to the tremendous amount of stress in his life and a result of gonorrhea transmitted from his wife, Empress Josephine.
- Theodore Roosevelt – He had epilepsy and was prone to epileptic seizures all his life but still became the president of the United States.
- Charles Dickens – He is thought to have suffered from epilepsy himself due to the “falling sickness” he used to describe “fits” that his characters have, with incredible medical accuracy.
- Edgar Allan Poe – He is one of the most celebrated American storytellers. He wrote about episodic unconsciousness, paranoia, and confusion. These symptoms indicated alcohol or drug abuse that he may have partaken.
While it is good to know the famous historical figures who have had epilepsy, other popular people may have passed away recently or are still alive and showing us how to live life the best they can even with the condition.
They are:
1) Danny Glover – He is an Academy Award-winning actor best remembered for his role in the iconic “Lethal Weapon” films. More importantly, he also impacts people when he speaks about epilepsy, something he has struggled with since he was a child. Without surprise, he outgrew his disorder just like many people do.
2) Lil Wayne – He is a rap superstar who was hospitalized in 2013 when he had a series of seizures after shooting a music video. After recovering, he shared in an interview about dealing with epilepsy throughout his life. He made clear to his millions of fans that epilepsy won’t dampen his music career or schedule but quickly pointed out the importance of eating and sleeping right.
3) Susan Boyle – Her lovely voice surprised the world when she sang on “Britain’s Got Talent”. The unlikely star struggled with epilepsy throughout her childhood and how it held her back, thinking it was due to a mental defect as what adults in her life hinted at. Now, she is bent on helping shed light on the condition, especially on children experiencing complex emotions because of epilepsy.
4) Rick Harrison – Many fans know him as the star of “Pawn Stars” on TV and owner of the Gold and Silven Pawn Shop. Little did everyone know that he had a lonely childhood since he was forced to spend much of his time inside the house because of his epilepsy. He is now working closely with the Epilepsy Foundation in his home state of Nevada.
5) Prince – the legendary performer and Grammy Award-winning singer, may have passed away but before he died, he already made known in 2009 that he had epilepsy since he was a child. He revealed, “Early in my career, I tried to compensate by being as flashy as I could and as noisy as I could.”
6) Hugo Weaving – the Australian actor is best known for his roles in “The Matrix” and “The Lord of the Rings”. His battle with epilepsy started when he was just a teenager. He is proud to say he hasn’t experienced a seizure in more than 18 years.
7) Jason Snelling – He is a football star and former Atlanta Falcons running back and was diagnosed with epilepsy while in college but was able to continue his football career and become a professional athlete because of the epilepsy treatments he got.
8) Neil Young – He is a legendary singer-songwriter who has lived with epilepsy for most of his life. He has a daughter who also inherited the condition.
9) Chief Justice John Roberts – He experienced the second seizure of his life in July of 2007, while an earlier episode occurred 14 years ago. The experts deemed it wasn’t an issue where his ability to function on the Supreme Court was concerned.
10) Dai Greene – Olympic athlete and British track and field hurdler with epilepsy but hadn’t had a seizure in years. He claims that lifestyle habits helped him with his condition and can make a real difference in our health.
Takeaway
As these accomplished individuals demonstrate, epilepsy does not have to prevent you from living a fulfilling life and achieving success in all that you do. It is time for us to follow the positive examples of great men and women throughout history and recognize that epilepsy can be treated and even outgrown.
If you know of a loved one suspected of the condition, contact your healthcare provider for more info on epilepsy new treatment they can participate in.