Volunteering with MyGlitch & Thank you to those that volunteer helping MyGlitch

Disclosure: As a reminder I don't go back and correct any mental errors while writing because that is true to how my brain works with living with epilepsy. In order to understand this by someone just joining, one example at times I might speak a seteances out ouf order, or repeat them, spelling.

In Honor of National Volunteer Week April 19-25

WHY the NEED to be a Volunteer

Based on my previous Careers of working in personal training, Director of Campus Recreation/Wellness, Worksite Wellness and lastly Director of Alumni & Donor Engagment for EKU(my alma mater). All of which had direct interaction with others, creating relationships over the years through my passion.

The last career I was in charge of donor events for the President, and all donor athletic events. Just by the title you can guess, it involved a lot of interaction. I LOVED every moment of it. So when I had to medically retire I needed something to provide me purpose. I was already volunteering for the boys things, but I wanted more, especially after they gradutaed and went to college. When we lived in Fargo-Moorhead I was part of the orginal volunteers in oragnaizing Epilepsy Walk there.

So to me finding a way to voluneteering anything would help me. There has been some pros &challenges. I cannot drive, which limits me the most. I am the type of person who doesn't like to ask for help, but truly appreciate those who help me do things.

I want to also give a shout out to all those that volunteer in epilepsy events, and anything that supports our family & others living with epilepsy. That means just as mnuch vs. me getting to actually volunteer. I share both below.

The Benefits of Volunteering with Epilepsy(MyGlitch)

For me, it brings a sense of accomplishment and connection that is vital when living with a chronic condition. I need a way to fill the void I feel daily. This explains me and others living with epilepsy have told me their reason.

• Building Community  

 Volunteering connects me with others. It has created friendships and support networks from various states. This helps reduce feelings of isolation, which can be common for people with epilepsy. I prefer in person, but even the online connection has helped.

• Boosting Confidence  

  Taking on responsibilities and contributing to a cause improves my self-esteem. It reminds me that epilepsy does not define who I am.

• Learning New Skills  

  Volunteering creates new experiences and skills, I may not of had before or just bringing back the old ones.These skills can useful in other areas of life.

• Flexible Opportunities  

Volunteering being flexible is good for me, due to not knowing what kind of day I might have. Another reason why online volunteering, at times is the best for me.

Challenges I Face Volunteering with Epilepsy(MyGlitch)

As you read above it can be benicial obfor me but it does have some problems in volunteering when you cannot drive or just have days which I have MyGlitch occur so I can't volunteer safly that day.

• Transportation Barriers  

  Since I can't drive, I have rides from friends, family, Brent's collegues, oand sometimes others that are going to be volunteeting. rUnfortunately; In the area we live we do not have public transportation and honestly it probably wouldn't be safe for me. Those with controlled seizures would be fine.

• Health Uncertainty  

  Seizures or medication side effects sometimes force me to cancel plans or avoid certain activities, which can be frustrating for both me and the organizations I help.

• Physical and Mental Fatigue  

  Volunteering requires energy and focus. On days when I feel tired due to a rough day of seizures, medication changes/side effects. Creates frustration for me.

• Accessibility Issues  

  Not all volunteer environments are fully accessible or understanding of epilepsy. This can create stress or discomfort, making it harder to engage.

Thank you to those that volunteer at Epilepsy events(or anything that inspires you)

• Providing Education and Awareness  

  Volunteers help spread knowledge, and raise awareness on the "facts" about epilepsy. One example would be volunteering at a school to teach first aid/how to treat somone who is experiencuing a seizure.

• Offering Practical Assistance  

  Create support groups, helping with transportation or daily tasks, when I cannot prefoem them that day.

 Overall it reminds me that volunteering is a two-way street:

giving and receiving support helps everyone involved.

A connection is created for both sides.

If you live with epilesy and want to volunteer, start small and find what works for you. No one's espilepsy type is the same. Always make sure to check with your dr first. I always try to hve someone which knows MyGlitch to be there, just in case i have a seizure while there.

For those who don't live with epilepsy & volunteer for epilepsy causes or support networks, know that you are appreciated in ways you probably don't even realize. THANK YOU!