Bethany’s journey with epilepsy has been marked by resilience, courage, and a powerful transformation. From facing bullying and stigma at school to finding a supportive community through Young Epilepsy, her story is one that inspires and empowers.
Facing Stigma at School
Bethany’s experience with epilepsy began early, but it was during her GCSEs that the stigma became unbearable. She recalls a traumatic moment:
I went face first onto the concrete... a couple days later there was a video circulating around the school of me having the seizure
Despite informing teachers about her condition, Bethany was left outside before an exam, where she had a seizure. The lack of support and the cruelty of peers who shared the video left her feeling humiliated and isolated.
Bullying and Lack of Support
Bethany faced relentless bullying throughout secondary school. Even teachers made insensitive jokes:
One day you're gonna go down like dominoes
She and two other students with epilepsy were often left to manage each other’s seizures, while teachers failed to intervene or even stop recordings during episodes. The school’s response was consistently dismissive, pushing complaints under the rug and failing to provide proper care.
Finding Community with Young Epilepsy
Bethany’s turning point came when she joined the Youth Voice Network. Through support from Becca and Cameron, she found people who truly cared:
They truly care... always reaching out and checking that I'm doing okay
Meeting others with similar experiences helped Bethany realise she wasn’t alone. The community gave her confidence and a sense of belonging.
Turning Pain into Purpose
Bethany is now studying to become a primary school teacher, determined to create a safe and inclusive environment for future students:
I know exactly how lonely it can feel... That’s why I want to be a teacher
