2006 Kids Speak Up! Participant Biography

Carolyn Sturgill

Age: 8
Grade: 1
Hometown: Spokane, Washington

Carolyn's fearless, upbeat attitude has been an inspiration to those around her.

Since infancy she has had seizures, but the condition was not diagnosed until she was two years old. Her seizures were complex partial in nature, but were characterized as "screaming fits." Upon entering school, it became apparent that her condition impeded her ability to learn at the rate of other children her age.

In March 2004, a pediatric epileptologist from the Swedish Epilepsy Center recommended Carolyn as a candidate for brain surgery. In preparation for the surgery, Carolyn had to shave her head; her mom shaved hers as well, as a show of solidarity.

One of the more difficult things was the taunting and teasing from classmates once she returned to school.

Though she still struggles academically, Carolyn is seizure-free. She wants to raise her voice in Washington, D.C. to spread awareness and eliminate the shame associated with epilepsy.

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