Seizure protocols outline how to manage seizures with emergency actions and maintenance treatments. For Emily Pappas, who had a grand mal seizure for the first time when she was 16 years old, the most essential step that went beyond any protocol was finding a physician to guide her and stick by her side during all the hurdles.
Pappas, now 24 years old, has been supported by Takijah Heard, MD, a pediatric neurologist and epileptologist at Endeavor Health, since her first appointment.
“I was a teenager in a lot of denial when I first had my seizure, and my mom was leading the way for our family,” Pappas said. “Dr. Heard listens to parents, who are advocating for their kids, and takes into consideration what they want and how treatments will affect their lifestyles. As I got older, Dr. Heard left decisions up to me. Through it all, she has been so thorough, smart and responsive.”
Dr. Heard added, “Listening and relationship building is a major part of the wellbeing of my patients. To me, health is measured by how functional the patient is in the environment in which they live. My motto as a doctor is to allow them to live to their best potential and thrive with my help.”
Life-changing diagnosis
Although Pappas has a sibling with complex medical conditions, she was a typical high schooler involved in competitive dance with no underlying medical conditions. After the surprising first grand mal seizure, Pappas had an appointment with a physician who said the event was a one-time fluke that sometimes happens. One week later, Pappas had another grand mal and her mom, Kim, sought a second opinion within the Endeavor Health system.
Dr. Heard’s bio stood out to Kim, particularly Dr. Heard’s experience with children with special needs. Pappas’ older brother, Tommy, has Down syndrome and epilepsy with absent seizures. Kim finds physicians who work with special needs patients to be very understanding.
Dr. Heard diagnosed Pappas with epilepsy at the first appointment and warned the family that more seizures were coming. Several tests were run and medications were prescribed.
“The medications were somewhat helpful, but I still was having seizures,” Pappas remembered. “I started having them at school, dance and home where 911 was called probably twice per month.”
Pappas was eager to go to college in fall 2020. After many discussions, Dr. Heard agreed with Kim and her husband, George, that Pappas could attend with close monitoring.
Pictured above: Pappas and Dr. Heard
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