Meet Megan — Perinatal Stroke
Megan was born on August 11th, 2000. She suffered a stroke in utero. We were given the “Gloom & Doom” speech; everything was what Megan would not do, rather than what she could do. I told the hospital staff you do what you need to do now and I will worry about Megan and her health for the future. I did A LOT of research on Megan and her stroke of the brain at birth. I knew if I did not fight for Megan, no one else would. I had to be her voice, her advocate.
At 9 months old, Megan was diagnosed with epilepsy. She was on five anti-seizure medications that could not stop her seizures. We could see 80-100 a day, but neurologists said she was having 200-300 we couldn’t see daily. At the age of 15 ½ months old, a partial left hemispherectomy (brain surgery) was the only option that could give her quality of life. Megan underwent her brain surgery at UCLA Mattel Children’s Hospital on October 21, 2001. After her surgery, I felt like I brought home a new child. Within two weeks, Megan could roll over both ways, and she could sit herself up. My Christmas gift that year was hearing my daughter say her first words 2 weeks before the holiday.
In our home, we refuse to use the word “can’t.” Instead, Megan will attempt a task, and if she determines she does not like it, that’s fine. But I told her society will not cut her any slack, so she must prove them wrong. Never accept pity; instead teach those who need understanding of your disability.
Megan has other diagnoses along with stroke of brain; she has ADHD, metabolic syndrome, and restless leg syndrome. As Megan has grown and matured she has been able to try other foods that she would not eat as a child. Megan’s senses have been heightened after surgery, and her gag reflex is super sensitive, as are her senses of smell, hearing and tasting. Megan is currently 15; she is on no seizure medication. She is a freshman in high school, and she plays Unified Sports through Special Olympics which allows high school students that have a disability to letter in sports. Megan also plays on a Special Olympic Team – the Topeka Jr. Blues. She is in resource classes, where students learn regular curriculum but at a pace that makes it easier for students with disabilities to do the work. Megan’s future is to become a para aide in elementary school so she will be able to help children like her. She is a very positive young lady, always has a smile on her face and sees the good in everyone she sees and meets.
