L-R Tara, Braelon, Sharlyn

Jamestown  (CSi)  November is National Epilepsy Awareness Month, and making a return visit to The Wayne Byers Show on CSi Cable 2, were Sherilyn, Tara, and Braelon Geerdes.

About a year ago, Braelon was diagnosed with  the neurological disorder.

Braelon is a fifth-grader at St. John’s Academy, who was in a music class when she was 9-years old when the teacher noticed Braelon’s  face twitching and eyes rolling back.

That led to the diagnosis of epilepsy and subsequent therapy and a medication regimen.

Her mom, Tara, says, Braelon continues with therapy, and regularly visits a Minnesota Clinic for tests such as EEGs, light tests, and she see a neurologist and neuropsychologist who continue to work with her, and track her progress.

Tara said that Braelon continues with twice daily medications, and has a rescue medication that can be taken when an epileptic event occurs.

She added that a seizure can also occur, not affecting Braelon’s brain, but the symptoms of body shaking are similar.

Tara said the teachers and staff and administration at St. John’s Academy are very support of Braelon, and given her assistance, in the event of a seizure.

She pointed out in addition to insurance coverage, a grant has been made, through the efforts and support of St. John’s Academy and St. James Basilica in Jamestown.

Braelon  still participates sports, such as softball wearing head protection, and is active in other ways, playing the guitar, and the piano, and she  sings at public events.

She was recently invited to a National Epilepsy Foundation event in Denver, where she sang.

Braelon’s Grandmother, Sherilyn Geerdes said, locally events are held to raise additional funds for the Minnesota Epilepsy Foundation, which also serves eastern North Dakota.

She says more support in North Dakota is needed, pointing out that 1 in 26 individuals, children and adults, will develop epilepsy.

More information, including how to donate dollars, is on line at www.egmn.org, or by calling 1-800-779-0777.