Jeffrey Wiles

I am almost 50, and have been through a lot since my TBI and Epilepsy on September 10, 1990. On that day, while crossing the road on my bike (without a helmet), I was struck by a speeding truck.

From that accident, I was in a coma for 7 days, and physical, occupational, and speech therapy for 3 years. I was a freshman in high school when it happened, but due to how well I was able to cope with everything, I was still able to graduate with my class. I then went on to get an Associate degree in Mechanical Design Technology from Monroe County Community College in Michigan. I worked hard and was able to get assistance from the teachers and college to complete the classes.

After that I was able to work in Engineering for approximately 25 years. In 2016 I also had brain surgery to remove a portion of brain tissue that was thought to be causing my seizures and amazingly, since the surgery, haven’t had any more seizures.

Unfortunately, due to the brain surgery and other health problems, I had to go on Social Security Disability because of my health and brain capabilities are not where they were when I was younger. I also faced a significant amount of discrimination and anger, along with short term employment at my jobs due to not having short term memory from the TBI, learning disabilities, and somewhat slow learning abilities, along with having petit mal seizures that were misdiagnosed for approximately 15 years.

Some companies were understanding about my health, but very few. Prior to Obamacare, once companies saw healthcare costs rise due to me, I was usually “let go” too. I was always open at my interview in regards to my TBI and Epilepsy. I felt it was better to be open and save both mine and they’re time if my health problems would cause issues. I know I don’t have to legally say anything, but I’d rather be upfront than have to do more explaining later.

I am happy to see that as time has passed, there are more support groups, opportunities, and assistance for people in my situation. I am working hard now to try to promote an understanding of Epilepsy and TBI’s so that our society can be more supportive and work better together to make everything better for everyone.