Hi Friend,

In our last Brainwaves, I introduced a new epilepsy concept called 'a life interrupted'. I've been pleased to see that people are engaging with this idea and I've had many thoughtful conversations around it over the last few weeks. 

Along the same line, I've realised the title of 'carer' is not always one that sits well with people who are supporting someone with epilepsy. I am considering changing our terminology from carer to caregiver - what do you think? I would value your thoughts on both these changes to our language.

Thank you to everyone who participated in and supported our 2021 Walk For Epilepsy event last month - it was our biggest turnout so far and we raised valuable awareness and funds to support Tasmanians with epilepsy. 

Thank you also to Fit n Kicking for their continued fundraising support with the Mount Barrow Challenge. Although it was a freezing and snowy day, it didn't deter people from attending and we would particularly like to congratulate all participants for their dedication and to Megs at Fit n Kicking for organising and managing this event.

If you've visited our website recently you may have noticed the menu has changed. Following feedback, we have renamed and reorganised some of it to better reflect the immediate needs of people with epilepsy. Have a look and let us know what you think: https://epilepsytasmania.org.au/

Till next time,

AGM

Please join us on Thursday 25 November from 4 pm at our Hobart Office as we host our 2021 Annual General Meeting.

Everyone is welcome and encouraged to attend to hear what we have achieved in 2021 and about our new constitution.

Travelling With Epilepsy

As we begin travelling to visit each other again, it is a good time to consider how people with epilepsy can travel safely.

Living with epilepsy should not prevent us from travelling, so here are a few hints to help plan and ensure our needs are met:

Before You Go:

• Discuss vaccines with your GP/Specialist about their impact on seizure activity and your epilepsy medications.

• Ask your GP/Specialist if you need to adjust any medications to accommodate changes in time zones. Be extra careful if sleep deprivation is a trigger for your seizures.

• Tell your travelling companions how to help if you have a seizure while away.

• Wear a medical ID bracelet to advise of your epilepsy and seizure type as well as any other medical conditions. 

• If travelling within a group tour, tell the leader what to do if you have a seizure and even better if you give them a copy of your emergency management plan (EMP). 

• Consider what time of year to travel if temperature (heat or cold) is a trigger for you.

• Take a medical certificate from a GP/Specialist with you explaining your epilepsy and seizure type/s and the contact details of your GP/Specialist.

• Pack enough medication for your time away, plus some extra in case you get caught with delays. Keep your meds in their original packaging as this shows the name of the meds and who prescribed it for you and why, with the current dosage.

• Pack medication in a clear plastic bag and carry them with you onto the aircraft, so if your luggage is lost, your meds are still with you.

• Ensure your airline is aware of any specific needs you may have while travelling.

• On arrival at your accommodation, think about seizure safety by checking for sharp objects within your room and furniture that may need moving.

• Be aware of food choices if some can trigger seizures. If overseas, drink bottled water including for brushing your teeth as gastric upset can reduce the absorption of your epilepsy medications.

• Travel insurance - many companies list epilepsy as a pre-condition. And require that you have not had any changes to your medication regime and no hospital admissions in the past 12 to 24 months before they will insure you. Discuss your specific circumstances with the insurance company and be honest and accurate, so that you are covered, and this not only includes your health but also your travel arrangements themselves (flights, accommodation, experiences etc.).

Now that you have planned and are fully prepared enjoy yourself and have fun - we will be waiting for your postcard!

And if you have any further questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us on 03 6344 6881.

Christmas Hours

Epilepsy Tasmania will close over the Christmas and New Year period from 3 pm on 23 December until we reopen at 9 am on January 10. 

For emergencies, please contact 000, your health specialist, the Mental Health Helpline (1800 332 388), Beyond Blue (1300 22 4636), Lifeline (13 11 14) or the Friendline (1800 424 287).

“The way I see it, if you want the rainbow, you gotta put up with the rain."

Dolly Parton