My Epilepsy, My Voice

 

 

 

 

 

 

My name is Shaquille Armorer-Clarke. I was born prematurely, which led to several health complications, including hydrocephalus. During childhood, I experienced occasional mild seizures and was on medication until the age of five, after which they went away. Fortunately, I remained seizure-free throughout my teenage years and led an active, fulfilling life. I participated in a variety of sports—baseball, flag football, cross-country, and track and field—and was a proud member of the Navy JROTC program for three years in high school.

 

In 2020, during the height of the pandemic, I began experiencing severe headaches. These were caused by a malfunction of my VP shunt, resulting in a five-week hospital stay. The malfunction led to a loss of vision and triggered multiple seizures due to the trauma my brain had endured. As a result, I was placed back on multiple anti-seizure medications, which I have continued for the past five years.

 

Currently, I am a junior at the University of South Florida, majoring in Integrated Public Relations and Advertising. I remain determined not to let any obstacle deter me from achieving my goals. Managing stress is an important part of maintaining my health, and I have been doing well in that regard. I remain hopeful and prayerful that this continues.

 

I am deeply grateful to God, my family, and the Epilepsy Team for their unwavering support and belief in my potential. After graduation, I plan to pursue a career with a professional sports team, either local or national—or work at a public relations firm where I can contribute meaningfully and continue growing professionally.