The Voyage: On Seas At Times Stormy

When parts 1 & 2 of "The Voyage" were written I was apprehensive about beginning a radically different medicine regimen for my intractable seizures. I am writing this as a sort of status report to all those that I know care about my welfare. Also, I'm writing this in hopes that if any of you are undergoing major medicine changes you can express it in writing like this and give it to your doctor. I hope that any health details I have included will not bore you silly! I just wanted to illustrate how we can all give support when we need it most.

In my transition from TEGRETOL XR to Trileptal, I had many reservations being that I've remained intractable for nearly 30 years. It was through all the kind words of support I received from all of you out there that I got the strength I desperately needed. I felt it was critical to show by us reaching out we can receive the kind of help so badly needed when dealing with epilepsy or seizures. I hope the words of support I received will also give you all support and comfort in your own lives.

I had a slight complex partial the first day and status simple partials for 3 hours. I've had some intermittent simple partials and were controlled with Klonopin. I knew the Tegretol XR would be out my system by Friday, August 4th, and then we'd get a better idea of how many milligrams I need for control.

Around 6am on August 4th, I had a severe complex partial that had me falling on the toilet breaking the tank into a million pieces - and leaving me amazingly uninjured, thank God. Perhaps somebody upstairs does want The Epilepsy Connection to succeed? I could have sustained great injuries in that "accident", but I did not.

When Trileptal was increased to 3000mg. per day, I felt the immediate difference. It will take time to adjust to the correct dose, timing of doses etc., but overall, I've had far fewer simple partials than on my prior medications. It is still looking hopeful. I'm looking forward to tomorrow's new, increased Trileptal dose.

There was reason for me to look forward to that additional 600 mg. because that August 5th was one of the best days I had in years! I had a peace of mind I hadn't experienced in years, more alertness, a sense of humor (which matters to me), and even a feeling of optimism for my health, which is difficult at times.

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