Chris Degnan was 58 years of age when she received a diagnosis that would change her life: epilepsy. It came as a shock—she was the first in her family to be diagnosed, and for a long time, she didn’t know anyone else with this diagnosis.  But as with many challenges in her life, Chris faced it with resilience, curiosity, and a deep desire to stay connected to her community. 

Being diagnosed as an adult brought unexpected challenges and new restrictions, forcing Chris to stray from the life she once had lived — most notably, the loss of her ability to drive. This deeply impacted her independence and active social life. However, after a year free of seizure activity, she was briefly able to regain that freedom, reconnecting with friends and daily routines. When the seizures returned, so did the restrictions, and Chris had to once again adjust and ask for help. 

Thankfully, Chris is surrounded by a strong support network of family and friends who help her navigate the emotional and logistical hurdles of epilepsy. She manages her seizure activity with medication, brain exercises, and lifestyle changes like prioritizing sleep, all while striving to maintain a fulfilling social life. 

Now retired from a fulfilling career as a project manager, Chris fills her days with activities that bring her joy. She’s an active grandmother who frequently visits her children and grandchildren in the Boston area. Family visits are filled with laughter, games, and quality time. She also enjoys shopping, lunch outings with her friends, and her monthly book club. 

Chris shared that one of the most meaningful experiences in her journey has been participating in the Epilepsy Foundation of Northeastern New York (EFNENY) Self-Management program for people with epilepsy. “It was incredibly rewarding,” she said. “I didn’t know anyone else with epilepsy before, and this group gave me a chance to connect, learn, and feel understood.” Chris found the educational resources were invaluable, and the sense of community helped her feel less alone and recommends the program to others living with epilepsy. “It’s more common than people think, and it doesn’t define who we are. With the right support and understanding, we can still live full, meaningful lives.” 

This journey has inspired Chris to become a powerful advocate, and she has taken additional steps to advocate for herself and others. Chris took the next steps in her advocacy journey and has written letters to state legislators, sharing her story and advocating for better support and funding for epilepsy services. She was thrilled to receive a response and hopes to continue this kind of advocacy in the future. She’s also interested in volunteering her time to support others living with epilepsy by volunteering with EFNENY. She currently volunteers at other spots around the Capital Region including her church’s food pantry and Friends of the North Greenbush library. 

Chris’s story is one of strength, adaptability, and hope. She may not have chosen this path, but she walks it with grace—and she’s determined to help others along the way.

What does Chris think everyone should know about epilepsy?  

“It is okay to feel angry and frustrated, but there are resources to help”