Jill Woodworth

Listen to this articulate and inspiring young lady, Saaim Ali, as she gives us a gripping inside look at the experience of having epilepsy. From diagnosis at age 7, thru the current day as a computer science major near Buffalo, NY, she discusses how she came to accept her diagnosis, difficulties in school, overcoming mental health challenges related to epilepsy, interacting with doctors as she takes responsibility and utilizes discipline and hard work to meet the many challenges a diagnosis such as epilepsy can present. She details how much it means to be recognized for accomplishments, not getting caught in a downward spiral of depression, seeking mental health support and finding joy and meaning in her life. Today, she uses her experiences overcoming the many frustrations of the "invisible" disease epilepsy to inspire and help others in her college setting.