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- Living A Life With Epilepsy - Mark's Story
| Name: | Mark |
| Hometown: | Hampstead, NC |
| Age: | 33 |
| Diagnosed: | Age 3 |
| Current Treatment: | Zonegran® (zonisamide) capsules; adjunctive therapy for partial seizures |
| Physician: | Dr. Kevan VanLandingham, Duke University Medical Center To read more about Mark's physician, click here. |
LIVING A LIFE WITH EPILEPSY - MARK'S STORY
Mark has always had a variety of interests and hobbies, ranging from karate to art and animation. But epilepsy, and treatment with medication, has limited his pursuit of those interests.
Mark had his first seizure at 14 months and was diagnosed with epilepsy at the age of three. Since his diagnosis, Mark has tried a variety of medications and even surgery to control his seizures. Some of his medications helped reduce seizures, but caused side effects including weight gain and depression, requiring Mark to search for other treatment options.
Mark started seeing Dr. VanLandingham at Duke University Medical Center in 1996. At that time, he was having three or more seizures a month. After assessing his condition and history, Dr. VanLandingham suggested Zonegran, and the results have helped Mark live a life with epilepsy.
Since starting Zonegran, Mark has gone two years without having a seizure, which has allowed him to take action toward a more independent lifestyle. First on Mark’s slate is learning how to drive, but he also has his eye on some bigger goals. Because Mark’s condition has required constant supervision, he has lived with his parents for the majority of his life. With more freedom in his life, Mark is planning to learn independent living skills, and go back to school for art.
Mark has also gained some stability in his daily life since he began taking Zonegran. While other medications caused significant weight gain, with Zonegran Mark’s weight has remained at a healthy level. It has been this combination of reducing seizures and minimal side effects that has made Zonegran an effective treatment for Mark.
“One day I would like to write and illustrate a children’s book,” said Mark. “My interests have always helped me get through the hard times with epilepsy, and I’m excited that I now have the freedom to pursue them.”
“Mark’s story shows that newer epilepsy treatments are making it possible for patients to gain independence they never had, or dreamed about having,” said Dr. VanLandingham. “It is important to realize these results exist with the right treatment.”
Click here to view or download full ZONEGRAN prescribing and safety information