What does it feel like to live with seizures? How do you explain something so complex — and often invisible — to others? What do you wish people understood about what it’s like being you? 

These are just some of the questions behind Seizures and Me, a new creative workshop we’re hosting on July 31 at RCSI. Open to young people living with seizures — whether from epilepsy, functional neurological disorder (FND), tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC), acute brain injury, or another condition — the workshop also welcomes siblings who want to take part. 

A Space for Expression and Support 

Seizures and Me offers a relaxed, supportive space where young people can express what life is really like — through whatever creative form speaks to them, whether that’s painting, writing, collage, or photography. As part of the event, participants will be invited to reflect on moments from their journey using prompts designed to help them explore everything from diagnosis and treatment to friendships, frustrations, hopes and strengths. 

Michael Mckillop and Emma Beamish

“This workshop gives young people the chance to see themselves — to know they’re not alone, and that we see them, hear them, and stand with them,” says Emma Beamish, teacher, former Ireland cricketer, and person living with epilepsy. “Living with seizures, whether it’s the anxiety they bring or the aftermath you’re left to manage, we want to give them space to express those feelings. Sometimes it’s hard to find the words — but maybe someone else has them, or maybe they can draw it instead. That in itself can take away some of the fear and build greater understanding.” 

Putting Patient Voices at the Centre 

This event is part of our wider mission to transform the patient journey — placing the voice of those affected by neurological conditions at the centre of research, while also exploring new, creative ways to reach and include them. 

Colette performing at A Head with Harmony.

Seizures and Me builds on the success of FutureNeuro’s previous engagement initiatives, including My Unique Brain, a national art competition, and Head with Harmony, a music and storytelling showcase hosted by the Centre in 2023. One of the most powerful moments at that event came from professional soprano and PPI contributor, Colette Delahunt, who shared her family’s experience of her son Sean’s rare epilepsy diagnosis, supported by FutureNeuro’s clinical genetics team — before moving the audience with a beautiful performance.  

Events like Seizures and Me reflect a growing effort to bring science and creativity together, making space for lived experiences and encouraging young people to explore and share what their brains — and their stories — mean to them. 

Join the Workshop 

The workshop is free to attend, but places are limited. To find out more or register your interest, visit Eventbrite.