"You are not your epilepsy": A conversation with Bright Bwalya

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How can you describe your first seizures to a doctor if you don't remember them happening? What if your university professors don't believe you have epilepsy? How do you handle misinformation from family and friends about what epilepsy is?

Bright M. Bwalya has had to answer each of these questions, and more. Diagnosed with epilepsy in 2016, Bright coupled his experiences with curiosity and compassion to become one of Zambia's foremost epilepsy advocates. In 2021, he won an IBE Golden Light Award for his efforts.

Sharp Waves talked with Bright, as well as Drs Naluca Mwendaweli and Deanna Saylor, to learn about issues facing people with epilepsy in Zambia and how doctors and patients are working to increase awareness and understanding of the condition. Bright's story is unique, and yet it could be almost anyone's story, anywhere in the world.

Bright is developing an app (Seizure Assistant) to help people with epilepsy. He is active on Facebook and Twitter.

Sharp Waves content is meant for informational purposes only. The International League Against Epilepsy is the world's pre-eminent association of health professionals and scientists, working toward a world where no person's life is limited by epilepsy. Visit us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

Edited and produced by Nancy Volkers.  We welcome feedback and ideas for future episodes at [email protected].

Sharp Waves episodes are meant for informational purposes only, and not as clinical or medical advice.

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The International League Against Epilepsy is the world's preeminent association of health professionals and scientists, working toward a world where no person's life is limited by epilepsy. Visit us on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.