Columns

October 30, 2020October 28, 2020

The World Keeps on Turning, Even in the Midst of Tragedy

Columns, Redefining Normal – a Column by Brian Solka

When Brian’s seizures returned as Lennox-Gastaut syndrome (LGS) after his initial bout with infantile spasms, the blow was crushing. After Jendi went through a very difficult childhood, I was hopeful ... Read more

October 23, 2020October 21, 2020

LGS Caregivers Need a Little TLC, Too

Columns, Into the Unknown – a Column by Jendi Solka

With Lennox-Gastaut syndrome (LGS), you don’t get lucky for very long. The honeymoon phase we enjoyed over the summer has passed, and we’re right back into unknown territory. What do ... Read more

October 9, 2020October 21, 2020

Our 5 LGS Must-haves to Help Parent Our Son

Columns, Into the Unknown – a Column by Jendi Solka

Lennox-Gastaut syndrome (LGS) is without a doubt the most daunting experience I’ve ever faced. Time and time again, the seizures outsmart us, leaving us scrambling to find the next solution ... Read more

September 25, 2020September 23, 2020

As Brian’s Symptoms Worsen, It’s Getting Harder to Manage

Columns, Redefining Normal – a Column by Brian Solka

When diagnosed with Lennox-Gastaut syndrome, our son, Brian, was still developing normally. Every day built upon the previous day, which was amazing to watch. His episodes consisted of dozens of ... Read more

September 18, 2020September 16, 2020

First Comes Love, Then Comes Marriage, Then Comes a Baby With LGS

Columns, Into the Unknown – a Column by Jendi Solka

Lucky 7/11 My husband and I just celebrated our “7/11”: seven years married and 11 together. We often receive props for being the “model couple.” In our circle of friends, ... Read more

September 11, 2020September 9, 2020

It’s Been One of Those Days

Columns, Redefining Normal – a Column by Brian Solka

As an old episode of the TV series “The Office” plays in the living room, my daughter, Coralynn, is falling asleep on the couch. Her mom, Jendi, is locked into ... Read more

September 4, 2020September 4, 2020

Brian Accomplishes a Learning Goal

Columns, Into the Unknown – a Column by Jendi Solka

It’s been a long five months in quarantine. Teaching virtually while supporting my own two children and their virtual schooling was a challenge, to say the least. Doable? Yes. Bicycling ... Read more

August 28, 2020August 29, 2020

Brian Has His First Day of Kindergarten

Columns, Redefining Normal – a Column by Brian Solka

On my son Brian’s first day of kindergarten, he woke up nicely, babbling to himself in his bed. When I heard him singing to himself, I jumped out of bed ... Read more

August 21, 2020August 20, 2020

Sleepless in Florida

Columns, Into the Unknown – a Column by Jendi Solka

To say I am not a morning person is an understatement. Just ask my husband. By the time he’s out of bed, gone for a run, and showered, I’m still ... Read more

August 14, 2020August 12, 2020

Finding Strength in the Fog

Columns, Redefining Normal – a Column by Brian Solka

After we finished breakfast, Brian was freed from his eating chair (a donated wheelchair with a seatbelt and removable tray). As I was brainstorming fun morning activities with his big ... Read more