The drugs treating epilepsy had seriously affected Chan Man Kuen physically and mentally. She wanted to quit her job as a nursery worker but was opposed by her family, leaving her in dire distress. At that time she got in touch with The Hong Kong Society For Rehabilitation, through which she learnt more information on epilepsy. After painstaking efforts to improve herself, Man Kuen’s situation has become stable and has been employed as a program assistant by The Hong Kong Society For Rehabilitation. She firmly believes that if employers can give epilepsy sufferers a chance, it will be a tremendous encouragement to them.
One night, my sister while sleeping beside me, discovered that my body experienced rhythmic seizures. Startled by my convulsion, she immediately alerted mother and I was rushed to the hospital. I was diagnosed to have epilepsy. From then on, taking medication had become part of my daily life. There have been minor relapses during which I am conscious of how the disease affects me. Because I know what will happen to me when the seizures attack, I feel embarrassed and will rush to the toilet to hide myself whenever the symptom arises. My studies were seriously affected and I finished my secondary school education with much difficulty.
After graduated from school, fortunately I found a job in the childcare profession. However, side effects of the drugs emerged which seriously affected my body and even my work. I decided to quit the job but was met by objections from my family. I was under tremendous pressure and often cried. At that time, I got in touch with the Community Rehabilitation Network (CRN), which had completely changed my life. Through the courses hosted by CRN, I had a better understanding of epilepsy as well as drugs treatments. After experimenting on different drugs, my conditions have become stable with minor relapses.
When the Hong Kong Epilepsy Association was founded, I was eager to join it to get acquaintance with fellow sufferers. Many in the same boat faced more acute problems in their diseases, their relationship with family members and finding jobs. As compare to them, I was more fortunate and should lend a helping hand.
To give is better than receive. Through the Association I learnt to publish newsletters, organize annual meetings as well as community promotional activities. Such participation has resulted in work satisfaction and fulfillment and reasserted my ability, thus allowing me to grow spiritually.
Epilepsy still bears a socially negative label and faces discrimination in the working environment. However, I was fortunate to find an office work after painstaking effort to improve myself. Thanks to the Hong Kong Society For Rehabilitation, I have been employed as a promotional assistant, which allows me to travel to different hospitals to coordinate rehabilitation activities and paper works. Although I still experience sporadic relapses, I am accepted by my colleagues. Instead of casting an eerie eye on me, I am greeted by sympathetic condolences and nothing seems abnormal. I am not being discriminated and working here has increased my confidence as well as my sense of belonging.
I hope all employers can keep an open mind on those who suffer from epilepsy. Give us a chance to prove our capability. With your support and encouragement, I am sure we can work and contribute to the society .
As for our fellow sufferers, we should strive to show our confidence. With our candidness and whole-heartedness, we can gain the trust of others. If we belittle ourselves, how can other people trust us?