Faces of the Foundation: Natasha
In 2018, Natasha, then 26 years old, made a decision that would reshape both her career and her connection to the epilepsy community. Living with epilepsy and feeling the strain of the corporate world, she moved to Chicago to get a doctorate in occupational therapy at Rush University.
“Working in health care, I have more control, and helping others who are going through similar experiences is so rewarding and life changing,” Natasha says.
Today, she works in outpatient rehabilitation, helping patients “get back to life” after surgery. But her move to Chicago sparked more than a professional shift — it deepened her commitment to the epilepsy community.
Natasha became an Educational Ambassador for the Foundation, providing seizure first aid training throughout the community. She also joined the Epilepsy Foundation’s Associate Board, a group of young professionals who share personal connections to epilepsy.
“I joined the Associate Board to be more open about epilepsy,” Natasha says.
Diagnosed at age 11, she spent much of her childhood keeping her condition private, sharing it only with family and close friends.
“Growing up, I saw epilepsy as something to keep in the background,” Natasha recalls. “It wasn’t therapeutic for me and it feels good to support the Foundation in helping others in similar circumstances navigate their lives.”
Through the Associate Board, Natasha found not only a way to give back, but also a community that understands.
“I feel so lucky to be on the Associate Board. Not only are we able to help people living with epilepsy, we are able to help each other too.”
That sense of connection became especially meaningful two years ago, when Natasha experienced a seizure after having her frequency under control.
“I felt lost and called an Associate Board member. They helped calm me down and got me out of my ‘fight or flight’ mode. How cool would that have been to have that as a kid? It was the best call of my life.”
Growing up with epilepsy required sacrifices, but it also shaped her resilience. It taught her to be proactive and to anticipate the “negative things that come with having epilepsy.” Over time, she has worked to reframe her relationship with the disorder, not as something to hide, but as something to navigate with strength and support.
Today, Natasha encourages others living with epilepsy to seek balance and connection.
“Try to find your balance and utilize your resources. I know epilepsy can be isolating, and I am proud to support what the Foundation provides – support groups, camp, even help for parents. The Foundation is a sanctuary. It’s empowering and rewarding to see what it can do for people with epilepsy.”
By stepping forward as an occupational therapist and an Associate Board member, Natasha has moved epilepsy from the background to the forefront of advocacy and community. In doing so, she is helping ensure that no one has to navigate it alone.