How Luke battled with epilepsy
A COMPUTER technician has been speaking about the battle with epilepsy which turned his life upside down.
After being diagnosed last year, Luke Sandford, 28, from Illogan, lost his driving licence – until he has been free of seizures for 12 months – could not take baths or swim on his own or spend time alone with his two-year-old daughter.
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Luke Sanford and Pheobe, 2, with Olympic torch bearer Jerry Parry and Laura Allsworth.
He would collapse while working on his computer and break his nose.
"It has been devastating. Simple things I took for granted have been taken away," he said.
His partner Laura Allsworth, who helps run the Epilepsy Action group in Truro, said: "It was horrendous at first, seizures would wipe him out. It was frightening.
"We decided to get a private opinion on what was wrong."
After months of tests and different medications his condition is being controlled.
"Certain things still feel too risky, like being in a busy supermarket. But I don't want to be seen as incapable," he added.
Truro athlete and Olympic torchbearer Jerry Parry, supports Epilepsy Action, having lived with the condition all his life.
"I have had seizures since I was born, but when I was 45 they were finally brought under control.
"I haven't had one for four years," said the father of two who took part in the gruelling Escape From Alcatraz Triathlon last month.
"I've never hidden it from anyone. It is something that can be controlled with the right medication and support."
Miss Allsworth added: "There is still a lot of ignorance and stigma attached to the condition and we are looking to raise awareness to put an end to it. Jerry and Luke have shown you don't have to let the illness rule your life."
Epilepsy Action meets on the last Wednesday of the month at The Royal British Legion in Truro at 7.30pm. Transport can be provided.
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