2006 Kids Speak Up! Participant Biography

Santi Michael Elbow

Age: 9
Grade: 3
Hometown: Madison, Wisconsin

"I want people to be patient with me. It's hard for me to do things fast like others, but I am just as smart."

Santi is a cheerful and charming third grader. Friends and family also describe him as "extremely outgoing." Since moving from Africa to the United States early last year, Santi has become well adjusted to his new environment.

In the beginning, Santi and his family found it difficult to live with the complexities caused by epilepsy. Now, with support from the Epilepsy Foundation of South Central Wisconsin, they are actively involved in educating others about epilepsy. Santi's brother, Paul, even participates in Sib to Sib, a program that helps siblings learn about the condition.

Working with his family has enabled Santi to become more open and accepting of his condition.

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