Over the past few weeks I have shared Cooper’s Seizure Story from when he first started having seizures to the testing and results process. Today I am concluding Cooper’s Seizure Story with how he is doing since his diagnosis of epilepsy two years ago.
I am happy to report that since Cooper was put on anti-seizure medication, he has not had a full blown seizure. It took Cooper several weeks to acclimate to the medication. However, with some adjustments as instructed by his doctor, Cooper is living a quality life. With that being said, Cooper will always be on anti-seizure medication and will have to be monitored and have his levels checked on a regular basis. That is a small price to pay to have Cooper seizure-free or at least reduce the severity and frequency of seizures.
There is no guarantee that Cooper will never have a seizure. Throughout the past couple of years, there were some symptoms of seizure-like activity. I keep in touch with Cooper’s doctor about the symptoms and adjustments to his treatment are made if deemed necessary. Too many seizures can lead to neurological damage, so it is imperative to prevent them if we can.
I will admit that there is not a thump, bump, or middle of the night meows that do not wake me up. Once Cooper had his second seizure and we received his diagnosis, the possibility of another seizure is always in the back of my mind. The seizures were horrifying, and the experience has left me raw, even two years later. It is a balancing act knowing that a seizure can happen but to allow Cooper to live his day to day life. However, I make it a point to channel that vulnerability and turn that into gratitude for every day Cooper is with me. I realize how precious life is, and there is not one day that I take for granted with Cooper!
Most importantly, Cooper has not suffered from being an epileptic cat. As long as treatment is continued, his epilepsy can be managed, and Cooper can live a quality life! Cooper lives his life with the same vigor as he did prior to epilepsy! We were fortunate to have doctors that gave and still give Cooper the chance to live and thrive regardless of the obstacles. Cooper is a fighter, and he is surrounded by others that will fight for him! I am forever grateful!
Thank you for taking the time to read Cooper’s Seizure Story!
Special thanks to Riverview Animal Clinic and Mississippi State University Veterinary Specialty Center.
I also want to give an extra special thanks to my Mom. You came to the emergency clinic in the middle of the night when Cooper had his first seizure. You sat with me while Cooper’s doctor talked to me about what could be wrong. You went with me on the long all-day trip to see the neurologist. You sat with me while we waited for the results and during the diagnosis. I cannot put into to words the gratitude I have for all of your support.