Patrick Hloderwski

Age: 15
Grade: 9
Market: Syracuse, New York

Thoughtful and outspoken, Patrick Hloderwski has had epilepsy since he was two years old. For the past three years his seizures have been under control, which make him an incredible advocate for people with epilepsy. “It’s been hard finding the right medicine to control the seizures,” Patrick said. “But epilepsy hasn’t stopped me from accomplishing any goals or getting an education, and I want people to know that kids with epilepsy are just like other kids.”

A regular around his local Epilepsy Foundation’s support groups, he helps ensure all kids are included and he eagerly brings them into new activities. He’s taking these skills with him to Camp EAGR, a weeklong residential summer camp for kids with epilepsy. A camper for several years himself, this year he’s becoming a Counselor-in-Training, a position that suits him admirably since he knows personally what it’s like to go through tough times and emerge only stronger yet.

“You need to find the right activities and sports that are safe for you,” Patrick advises other kids with epilepsy. “You have to realize you can still be a normal person and do normal things.”