Having epilepsy should not stop someone from pursuing their aspirations for education, career, and livelihood. There are certainly safety considerations related to driving, operating heavy machinery, and activities related to the use of open fire, but on the whole, most people with epilepsy can undertake most activities just like people without. To speak to this, there are many accomplished individuals in the world who have had or live with epilepsy. Prince: The legendary musician Prince, known for hits like “Purple Rain” and “When Doves Cry,” revealed in interviews that he had epilepsy as a child. He outgrew it but remained an advocate for epilepsy awareness. Neil Young: The Canadian-American musician Neil Young has epilepsy and has spoken openly about his experiences with seizures and how they influenced his music. Susan Boyle: The Scottish singer Susan Boyle, who became famous after her appearance on “Britain’s Got Talent,” revealed that she was diagnosed with epilepsy as a child. She has been an advocate for epilepsy awareness. Lil Wayne: The American rapper Lil Wayne has been open about his epilepsy and has had seizures in public, which led to increased awareness of the condition. Hugo Weaving: The Australian actor Hugo Weaving, known for his roles in “The Matrix” and “The Lord of the Rings” series, has epilepsy but has been able to manage it effectively. Margaux Hemingway: The American fashion model and actress Margaux Hemingway, granddaughter of author Ernest Hemingway, had epilepsy and openly discussed her experiences with the condition. Chanda Gunn: Chanda Gunn is a former American ice hockey goaltender who has epilepsy. She became an advocate for epilepsy awareness and founded the Chanda Gunn Foundation to support those with the condition. And of course, in earlier times, Julius Caesar: The Roman statesman and military general, is believed to have had epilepsy. Historians have documented several instances in his life where he experienced seizures. The famous Dutch painter Vincent van Gogh is thought to have had epilepsy. Some art historians and medical experts have suggested that his art may have been influenced by his experiences with seizures.
