Adela's Story-- Myoclonic Epilepsy

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What has been your biggest challenge, either through high school or college in terms of your Neurodiversity or disability?

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Managing school has its problems, but in the end, I have figured out my triggers and have managed to have a great experience in my Master's program at UCLA! I am photosensitive, so I have special glasses to handle the bright lights and screens. My biggest trigger is sleep, so I need to make sure I am on a good sleep schedule and not plan for long school days. I also work, but only part-time. I can't overwhelm myself too much! In regards to social situation, I find telling people isn't necessarily the problem - its them truly understanding what epilepsy is and how it affects my body. Exercise is another big trigger for me, so there is alot I can't partake in or it becomes hard to keep up with people with things like hikes, amusement parks, etc.

 

What has helped you over the years?

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I have a super supportive system in my friends and family so that has played a major role in my self care. Also, learning to find my own voice and advocate for myself when needed, and also, building boundaries has been a tremendous step for me!

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What do you wish existed for Neurodivergent/disabled girls?

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Media often portrays mental health through female characters in a very inaccurate way, making them look "hysterical." And also, I feel that they can take a female's sensuality away from a disabled female character. These are ongoing bias that haven't really been challenged and I wish better representation and awareness was there for those who needed it. It is definitely something that we need desperately today.

 

Is there anything else you would like to share?

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One last note, I was fired from my job for having epilepsy, but it was the best thing that happened. If I wasn't, I would of never gone to UCLA, and attending school has opened so many doors for me that just working at that job could never.