Like many high school seniors, Elliot Haverly looked forward to a year filled with milestones and new beginnings. But his journey took an unexpected turn, just months before the school year began- he was diagnosed with epilepsy at age 16. As Elliot prepares to graduate this spring, he stands as a testament to resilience, determination, and the power of a positive mindset. 

Rather than letting the diagnosis define him, Elliot adapted with remarkable strength. He adjusted to a new routine of medication to manage his condition and has proudly remained seizure-free since August. His commitment to his health hasn’t slowed him down—in fact, it’s fueled his drive. 

Elliot is a three-season athlete, competing in cross country, Nordic skiing, and lacrosse. He balances his athletic pursuits with academic excellence, having earned the AP Biology Award in his junior year. He’s also enrolled in multiple college-level courses, serves as treasurer of multiple school clubs, works part-time at Price Chopper and is a Jr. Vestry Member of St. John’s Episcopal Church (Johnstown). 

Now, Elliot is looking ahead to college, where he plans to major in Computer Science. His main goals for his next chapter of life are to remain seizure-free for the next five years and continue building a future defined not by limitations, but by possibilities. 

What does Elliot think everyone should know about epilepsy?  

“A positive attitude has made a big difference.”