Lizzy’s Legends

One of the most essential parts of the Walk to END EPILEPSY is the people who support us. One of those supporters is Board Member and volunteer, Lizzy Aranibar. Since 2016, Lizzy’s Legends has been a major part of the Walk to END EPILEPSY, recruiting 123 team members last year!

Every team starts somewhere, and here’s Lizzy’s story:

Tell me your story. Who on your team has epilepsy?

I have epilepsy. I began having seizures 10 years ago after undergoing brain surgery for a condition called hydrocephalus.

Hydrocephalus is an abnormal accumulation of fluid within the cavities (ventricles) of the brain. The most common treatment for hydrocephalus is the surgical implantation of a shunt. A shunt is a flexible tube placed into the ventricular system of the brain which diverts the flow of fluid into another region of the body where it can be absorbed. Epilepsy is common among people with hydrocephalus.

How did you hear about the Walk to END EPILEPSY, and why did you decide to get involved?

I heard about the Walk when I discovered the Epilepsy Foundation online. So, I decided to volunteer at their office, and at that time, it was early November, so the Development Staff was preparing for the Walk to END EPILEPSY.

Additionally, I also serve on the Board of Directors and as an active volunteer and committee member for various events.

In addition to participating in the Walk as a walker, Lizzy serves on the committee. She helps promote the Walk within her network. She also serves on the committee for the Epilepsy “Have A Heart” Golf Tournament.

How has the Walk impacted your family? What does it mean to you?

The Walk is a special event that brings the epilepsy community together. It allows us to gather and feel a sense of family as we all support each other. My children, family, and friends enjoy coming because it provides them an opportunity to support me, and they have a great time while they’re doing it!

What’s your favorite part of the Walk?

It’s hard to pick a favorite part, but I really just love seeing everyone come together. For the past couple of years, I was able to meet a few new families throughout the year that have been impacted by epilepsy. They’ve joined my team and walked with us, which is really great.

Through the Walk, I’ve been given a chance to meet people who I otherwise wouldn’t have met. That’s probably my favorite part.

If you could tell someone who is newly diagnosed one thing, what would it be?

Well, since I don’t ever just say one thing about anything…I would tell someone who has been diagnosed with epilepsy a few things.

First and foremost, YOU ARE NOT ALONE.

Second, YOU ARE A WARRIOR! You are strong and brave, and you are a survivor!

Third, community is everything. People need people. Epilepsy can feel like a lonely, isolating illness that no one understands except for you. The good news is there are people who understand. Lots of people! They might not be exactly like you. Their seizures might not look exactly like yours. But, they will relate to you and you to them, because no one knows what a seizure feels like until you’ve had one.

By connecting with just one other person or attending just one event (the Walk is a perfect one), your life could change for the better.

For more stories and updates, follow us on Facebook or bookmark our blog. Register for the Walk to END EPILEPSY and connect with families and people like you. The Walk is for our community, and we’re here to support each other any way we can.