Why we should change the way we talk about epilepsy | Schwanna Jenkins | TEDxMallard Creek скачать в хорошем качестве

Why we should change the way we talk about epilepsy | Schwanna Jenkins | TEDxMallard Creek

In this TEDx Talk titled “Epilepsy Isn’t Just Medical: Shifting the Lens to Whole-Person Advocacy,” Schwanna challenges the narrow, symptom-focused way society understands epilepsy. While most people see the condition through the lens of seizures alone, she reveals a deeper truth: the hardest part of epilepsy isn’t always the seizure itself—it’s everything that happens in between. Drawing from her personal awakening and lived experience, Schwanna offers an intimate look at the unseen struggles, emotional weight, and daily complexities that shape life with epilepsy. She sheds light on the hidden caregivers—the families, partners, friends, and supporters who carry silent responsibilities—and invites audiences to expand their empathy far beyond what is medically visible. Through honest storytelling and powerful insight, she urges a shift from treating epilepsy as a purely neurological condition to recognizing it as a whole-person journey that touches identity, independence, relationships, and emotional well-being. Her message is clear and compelling: if we only treat seizures, we miss the person. Schwanna Jenkins is a licensed mental health professional, epilepsy advocate, and passionate storyteller whose work bridges science and soul. With over a decade of experience in clinical settings and community outreach, Schwanna has become a powerful voice for individuals living with neurological conditions—especially those whose stories often go unheard. Her advocacy is rooted in personal connection, cultural sensitivity, and a fierce commitment to dismantling stigma through education and empathy. Schwanna’s approach blends clinical expertise with emotional authenticity, using narrative as a therapeutic tool to foster healing and resilience. Whether she's leading support groups, speaking at conferences, or mentoring young professionals, Schwanna champions the idea that vulnerability is strength and that every story deserves space. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx