Living with Epilepsy

Encephalitis is an under recognised and under researched condition. Its sudden onset and diverse long lasting effects mean that the illness challenges people’s understanding and coping resources. This book combines scholarly research and professional insights into encephalitis with ‘the insider perspective’ in the stories of those directly affected by the condition. The narrative approach shows how supporting people to tell their own story of their neurological condition can really help in their understanding of the experience. This unique book will be of huge importance to any professional involved in the care of someone with a brain injury, and the individuals and families touched by encephalitis.

Introduction Chapter 1. Sam’s Story: Growing up different. Chapter 2. Sam’s Story: The Depths of Despair. Chapter 3. Sam’s Story: A Life in Epilepsy. Chapter 4: Matthew’s Story: Life before the accident. Chapter 5: Matthew’s Story: An Ordinary Tuesday Afternoon. Chapter 6. Matthew’s Story: Letting Go. Chapter 7: Emily’s Story. A Musical Life. Chapter 8: Emily’s Story: Under the Knife. Chapter 9: Emily’s Story: Notes on a Stave. Chapter 10: Conclusions

Sallie Baxendale is a clinical neuropsychologist who has worked in the NHS with people with epilepsy for over 25 years. She is currently employed as a Consultant Neuropsychologist by the Institute of Neurology, University College London. She serves on the editorial board of four international neurology journals and the International League Against Epilepsy Neuropsychology Task Force and is also the course convener for the ILAE sponsored course in the neuropsychology of epilepsy.