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Meet Natalie Y. Beavers of Angels of Epilepsy in Smyrna

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Today we’d like to introduce you to Natalie Y. Beavers.

Natalie, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
Born and raised in Southwest Atlanta. I was diagnosed with Epilepsy at the age of 5 and it was a quite challenge dealing with a brain disorder. But growing up in the 80’s, I had friends and classmates that didn’t look at me different if I would have a seizure in the classroom or playground. They called for help or was right there by my side. It’s very different now with this generation dealing with a disability like this one.

During my later middle school years and high school years, I had no episodes (seizures). Doctors stated to my parents that I have “grown out” of having seizures. But my freshman year in college, it returned. Not quite frequent. I still could live a normal life. I became a mother of 2 boys and continued to work extremely hard to manage my household. All I felt like doing was work. It was a major task that was a must for me.

Working two jobs, I had a Nanny to reside with me Monday-Friday to assist me with my children. Every Friday morning before work, I would take my baby boy to her house so his father can get him after work. In June 2006, I was driving to work on that Friday, taking my son and Nanny to her home before work. I remember singing with my son and all of sudden, I felt strange and told my Nanny, “I need to pull over.” Being on an major interstate, I had a seizure while driving. My Nanny took the wheel of the car to save us. But a major accident happened and someone lost their life. And that’s when my entire life changed.

Imagine having this tragic car accident, dealing with injuries, then being told there’s so much damage tissue on your brain along with a cyst there. Also, dealing with a case from the accident and becoming more ill, There was a time in my life where I gave up. I asked God to take me with Him and my mom. I did attempt suicide dealing with so much going on. But I’m still here and I had to realize that I’m here for a reason.

I had two brain craniotomy surgeries in 2008. Doctors removed the damaged tissue on my left-temporal-lobe and my hypocampus. The surgery did decrease my seizures but due to a cyst on the back of my brain, I still have seizures from time to time. During the long timing I had at Emory University Hospital in Atlanta before my surgeries, I met so many different people living with epilepsy. We talked, laughed, and even cried together. It seemed liked we had similar stories. I told my Dad, I think I need to start a support group or charity. And my Father said, “And you can do it!”

Angels Of Epilepsy Foundation was organized in late 2008 and we’ve recently celebrated ten years serving this community. Angels Of Epilepsy is a non-profit charity and advocacy that provide support and resources for the many survivors and families that battle with epilepsy or severe brain disorders. We visit patients and families and Emory University Hospital -Epilepsy Center in Atlanta as well as other local hospitals. We uplift their spirits with gift bags and supplies that will help them in many ways. We provide emergency medical alert I.D. bracelets/necklaces to survivors. Our charity assist many with transportation when needed. And we also provide much support for the families involved as well. Also, throughout the year, we have many workshops and seminars that gives much educational information from doctors/nurses, survivors, and even family members or caregivers. Our charity has a lot more progression to conquer and many goals to pursue.

Being a speaker, advocate, and mentor gives me strength. Telling my story, life challenges, and even battles I face today encourages many people. So when I see that in them, it makes me stronger. I never would have imagined being an award recipient three times within one year and even a television appearance. I was told that God has a plan for me and I do see it now. If I can just see other people smile, it gives me courage and hope! Everything in life happens for a reason. And I was the chosen one. I’ve turned tragedy into triumph. I’ve turned hurt into hope. And my tests into a testimony. It’s not my plan, it’s God’s plan!

Has it been a smooth road?
No, it has not been a smooth road. Dealing with a severe brain disorder (epilepsy), this life tends to have many struggles. I can not drive, I can’t be around flashing or neon lights. Many times I have people with me when I’m out because an episode can take place at any time,

I was also diagnosed with PTSD (depression), and recently with Anxiety. People will look at me and see on the outside that I look normal. A beautiful woman with a huge smile. But they don’t know the inside struggles I sometimes face everyday.

We’d love to hear more about your organization.
Angels Of Epilepsy Foundation is a non-profit 501(c)(3) charity and advocacy that helps many survivors and families dealing epilepsy or any severe brain disorders. Our charity visits many that are hospitalized and we give gifts to patients and resources to family members or caregivers. We supply medical alert I.D. bracelets and necklaces to survivors. We also provide transportation for those who are unable to drive. And throughout the year, we have many workshops and seminars that gives much educational information and resources, communication with different survivors and families, activities, and much more.

Angels Of Epilepsy specializes with communication amongst the survivors and families in the epilepsy community. We are well-known for our support and advocacy for the many lives that matter.

I am most proud of Angels Of Epilepsy for the reactions of our followers and those who we’ve helped. Throughout the year, we receive emails, phone calls, and even letters saying thanks for our support to them and the epilepsy community.

Many of the charities in the epilepsy community specialize in giving educational information and resources. What sets us apart from others is that our charity actually interact with the survivors as well as their families. We provide support for their needs.

Is our city a good place to do what you do?
Atlanta is a fantastic place to start a business! Being an Atlanta native, many have come from so many states here to start their business. Atlanta and even surrounding cities have great locations.

Yes, I do recommend Atlanta being an amazing city to start a business. It’s a lot of friendly people and beautiful atmosphere. Also, with our city now being held with so many people from other states, some have stated that our city is a better and nicer place to start and grow a business,

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Image Credit:
L.E.A.D. Media LLC

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