07/08/2026
We have been asked this question a lot.
Q: Why is Skylynn physically disabled? I know people with epilepsy, and aside from seizures, they’re otherwise okay.
A: Skylynn was born a healthy little girl and remained that way until October 2016, when she had her first seizure at school at just 6 years old.
Doctors tried countless medications, specialized diets, and every treatment available, but nothing was able to stop her seizures. Her first brain surgery involved removing an abnormal growth. For a while, it worked, and we were so hopeful. Unfortunately, her seizures eventually returned.
After exhausting every other option, she underwent a second brain surgery. This surgery involved removing and disconnecting portions of the right side of her brain. It stopped her seizures—but it came at an enormous cost. Skylynn was left with permanent paralysis on the left side of her body.
When one side of the body is unable to function normally, it can’t properly support itself. Over time, that weakness has caused other complications. The muscles on her left side cannot adequately support her neck, spine, hip, wrist, and other joints, leading to deformities, surgeries, braces, casts, ongoing therapies, and chronic pain.
And sadly, despite everything she has endured, her seizures have returned.
It’s hard not to wonder why a child has to pay such a high price just to have a chance at living a normal life. It doesn’t seem fair.
The reality is that without that second surgery, doctors believe the relentless seizures would have caused severe brain damage, and there’s a very real possibility she would not be with us today. The surgery gave us precious seizure-free years and protected her brain, even though it permanently changed her body.
Today, we continue to fight alongside her. Her medical care is extensive, emotionally exhausting, and incredibly expensive. Some days it feels like every step forward is followed by five steps back, but we refuse to give up.
Our greatest hope now is that the RNS implant will finally bring lasting seizure control so Skylynn can enjoy the life she deserves. We also pray that her incredible team of specialists can continue helping her regain as much function as possible and give her a future with less pain, more independence, and endless opportunities to smile.
Thank you to everyone who continues to pray for Skylynn, encourage our family, and walk this journey with us. Your support means more than words can express