Epilepsy -- my personal experience | Daniel Pruce | TEDxGranVia

This talk was given at a local TEDx event, produced independently of the TED Conferences. TEDxGranVia 2014
Sense · Feel · Know · Act!
12 de junio de 2014 - Madrid
June 12, 2014 - Madrid (Spain)

Daniel Pruce's life changed when epilepsy appeared. In a diplomatic environment, authencity is a must and, as such, acceptance of this new condition is a journey that must be made.

As Deputy Head of Mission at the British Embassy Madrid, Daniel is responsible for the effective operation of the Embassy and deputising for the Ambassador in his absence. The Embassy and Network has a total of 233 staff. It includes the busiest consular operation in the world, a UKBA visa section and very active UKTI commercial section.

Previously he was Deputy Head of Mission at the British Embassy in Bangkok since August 2008.

Before that he worked in the Europe Directorate of the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) in London, heading the department that dealt with internal EU issues, including economic reform and the EU's institutions. He was also responsible for strategic communications on the EU, including the Lisbon Treaty.

From 2004 until 2005 Daniel was the Programme Director of the FCO's change programme (the "Organisation Project"). This included restructuring the FCO in London and overseas.

Daniel was seconded to the Prime Minister's Press Office in 10 Downing Street from 2002 to 2004, responsible for briefing journalists on foreign, defence and development issues and accompanying the then Prime Minister Tony Blair on his visits overseas.

He has twice worked in the UK's Permanent Representation to the EU in Brussels. First dealing with the closing stages of the GATT Uruguay Round negotiations (1993-1996), then as British Spokesman on EU issues from 1999 to 2001.

Daniel was seconded to NATO HQ during the Kosovo crisis in 1999. During this period Daniel also spent time in Macedonia, working with the NATO communications team.

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[GRATE_DA_G]

I was 22.. had just found out what I wanted to do with my life.. then everything changed.. now I’m 27 1/2 finally coming with terms that I can’t get back what I missed.. don’t let epilepsy change your life you still can live a regular life

[shanecarubbi]

I hate my epilepsy 😟 Im not having seizures anymore but the ever lasting effects never ever go away... If any one reading this has a loved one with epilepsy please for the love of God don't give up on that person....

[LesleighHart]

As someone who had had epilepsy (Juvenile Myoclonic Epilepsy since I was 16) - this speech is so authentic. Freedom is through acceptance.

[phishinround]

Genuinely and honestly, I envy those epileptics that can live with a job, and have made something for themselves. Unfortunately epilepsy isn’t as kind to us all. Both shoulders and back have severe injuries that will last. Memory has been difficult. I’ve been in this battle for 20 years. But the hardest part is that it never gave me that level of “normalcy” to have things like a job. I still can’t drive (more comfortable not having seizures on the road) and have had 2 doctors leave their clinics during my care under them at different times, last one was 6 months ago. I’ve had people on both ends of the spectrum tell me the seizures aren’t too bad or that I’m just not epileptic. I’ve accepted my epilepsy, and it affects the whole of my life. My seizures do not care if someone thinks they are just “panic attacks” and still occur.

I’ve adjusted to life with epilepsy, but how the American health care system treats epilepsy is appalling. My seizures have gotten less frequent over time, but much more violent. Last real bad one broke an arm (9 screws) and put 2 fractures in my back.

To those with epilepsy who can work, I applaud you and your efforts.
I pray things improve over time.
But currently, the times are challenging.

Best wishes brothers and sisters. Keep living.

[donnieanderson]

I was diagnosed with epilepsy in 1993. I have been seizure free since 2001 but I haven't let it stop me. I'm currently in college.

[mypupismup]

"The second seizure, though the physical injuries were less, was much more significant for me." I felt *exactly* the same way. The implications of that second seizure are devastating. They represent a new chapter of your life. And not the good kind of chapter.

[auturobethel]

I love your testimonials about your journey with epilepsy and seizures. Continue thanking God for him being with as your strength as well as motivational support

[infinitybeautified]

im an epileptic but buddys girls n guys - remember we as epileptics are more ambitious in spirit mind and more romantic by nature. live life in happiness and love for all shall love u too friends. my achievements are 4 diplomas and worked in corporates in night and day and faught a vatiety of temperatures in water and extreme sport. riding a bike and car. u are amazing just remember to be positive dont stress...

[Amber-vbhe]

I am so glad that I watched this I don't feel alone anymore. Thank you for posting this video. 💖💖💖💖💖

[kristencarlyon]

This is what I needed to hear thank you so much for sharing You’ve made a lasting impression

[katcarp]

I wish I could give this more upvotes. Thank you so so much for giving this talk!

[howardbrown]

I agree. The best way for me to cope with the traumas of epilepsy Is to appreciate what is positive in my life.

[Starflare]

Epilepsy makes you stronger. It made me stronger. Don’t forget to where purple on the 26th 💜

[asdfssdfghgdfy]

"...Feel vulnerable, not in control". This has probably been the biggest issue for me. I've been recently diagnosed with Temporal Lobe Epilepsy but have had it for years not knowing what it was. Not knowing when seizures are coming and not having any specific triggers is a pain. At the moment they still aren't under control and as I have anywhere from 2 -20 partial seizures a day, not to mention a stupid amount of absence seizures which I can hide better. It makes it a worry to even go outside.

[chipmcbride]

Thank you for sharing. Let me tell you my story. I grew up in Florida. Join USAF in 1993. 1997 I sustained a concussion while in Saudi Arabia. Got out in 1998. Moved to New Jersey in 2006. Got divorced in 2013. Bottom line: I'm 48 years old and living in New Jersey with no family to call on in the event of an emergency. I'm still epileptic. I've had four kidney stone operations over the past two years. I've done it alone. I rent an apartment, hold down a steady civil service job, and support my children. (Two girls. 15 and almost 14.)

Watching your video makes me happy to know that epilepsy can be overcome. I'm proof of that. Thanks again for sharing!

[kevinkaysEwarrior]

I had just finished my construction management degree. It was the next step in my career in construction that I had been in for 20 years. I started losing moments in time and eventually had a clonic-tonic seizure at work. Within the next few months, I was fired from my construction job. Having to move on and find a new career in midlife was a bit anxiety creating at first. Just after I turned 41 and took a job as a substitute teaching assistant at the local school system. A few years later and post brain surgery, I'm a teacher now, and I love this career. It's quite a wake-up call, but it's ok to start over in midlife. I love this Ted-talk.

[smritirai]

I am 18 .I am not epileptic but I am always with you all. 👍👍to all your courage and struggle. I know you all can live a very happy life even with your epilepsy. Let ur happiness rule over epilepsy and ❤❤💕

[gelynsayas]

I'm an epileptic patient since I was 25 yrs old, now I'm 54 but still experiencing seizures twice or once a year I felt that my memory is decreased

[freshdelicecookingtutorial]

My partner has been diagnosed epileptic at 27 years old and had his degree with distinction. He inspires me everyday with his strive to achieve

[cookwithrahana]

Wow that was amazing u have given me confidence to be more open and talk abt it.its so hard it eats u up inside u feel useless worthless 😢. Thank u.