STEP UP

   For us to fight stigmatization on people with epilepsy in the society, everyone needs to play a role in making sure it comes to an end, however, the main question remains, what are we going to do about it or how are we going to do it? Well here are some of the psychosocial interventions that are going to help people with epilepsy and their families manage this crisis. The interventions are not only going to help them cope with the crisis but also regain a healthy psycho-social that will aim at improving their self-esteem, self-management and problem solving.

(courtesy of FPE)

   To begin with self management is where the participants set goals,develop action plans and learn skills to manage their condition through structured planning and feedback exercises. This helps them to follow their medication schedule properly, reduce their depressive symptoms and communicate better with their health care providers.

   In addition to that peer programs can be introduced. In this program, peers can form groups to carry out research on why epilepsy patients are being stigmatized. Moreso they can come up with solutions that will create an attitude change in the society towards them. They can also reduce social isolation by interacting freely with the patients and involving them in their daily activities without making them feel lesser beings. Apart from that,they can also share coping mechanism so that everyone including the patients can have the knowledge on epilepsy management.

(Courtesy of FPE)

   Furthermore support groups are of importance too. Parents,family members, youths, men and women can form organisations or associations that can offer financial, mental or any other kind of support to patients. The associations can raise funds to cater for the patients' medical services.They can also plan on reaching out to the patients or even pay the patients home visits to offer counseling services. They can also educate them on the importance of self management on their condition and accepting themselves. This will not only enable them receive healthcare services in the clinics or hospitals but it'll also enable them boost their self-esteem. They should also be on the look out for any acts of discrimination or isolation on epilepsy patients in the society for they ought to be treated equally.

(courtesy of FPE)

   Mobile applications is another factor. Online communities can be formed through mobile applications that are of low costs for example facebook to campaign against stigma. They can also offer training or educate the society on how they should handle and value people with epilepsy.

• To ensure the effectiveness of psychosocial intervention, there are a few ways to do this: Providing formal training for peer mentors 
• Monitoring chat rooms and online social groups to ensure the safety of participants 
• Intervene if a participant needs to be individually addressed 
• Providing tools such as a “seizure log” or a diary for people to document what happens.

BRING IT ON!!

(Courtesy of FPE)

   One of the most used source of spreading awareness on epilepsy-stigmatization issues is the media. How and why? The term medium (the singular form of media) is defined as "one of the means or channels of general communication, information, or entertainment in society, as newspapers, radio, or television." We are going to be highlighting the different tips for working with the media.

(Courtesy of FPE)

   To begin with, one must develop the facts so as to ensure that they have the right information to counter stigma. There are many people who do not have the basic information about epilepsy let alone the stigmatization that comes with it. People with epilepsy ought to know the truth. To achieve that, the media has to convey the right information to them. We should also promote message repetititon that is using many and different media sources to convey the same same message.

(courtesy of FPE)

   Additionally one can form appoint someone to monitor the media and immeadiately correct if there happens to be a media misinformation. Furthermore we can also providethe media with stories and people to be interviewed. This will enhance understanding as different people will share different experiences. One can also use print media, developing and sharing positive messages. 

   Radio and TV promos can also help hugely in creating awraeness on stigmatized epilepsy patients. Remember epilepsy has a cure and always sell the correct information. 

   

TIME FOR A KNOCKOUT

    

(courtesy of FPE)

   The set of negative and unfair beliefs that a society or a group of people in the society has about something can actually lead to psychosocial challenges to those affected. This is due to lack of public awareness and understanding about health conditions faced in the society, epilepsy being one of them. 

   There have been stereotypes in the society about the cause of the condition with some believing that it's a curse while some even saying it's as a result of witchcraft.Well everyone should know that epilepsy is just like any other disease in the society. It is a brain disorder that makes people experience seizures and one should be aware that anyone with a brain can have seizures. 

   Apparently none would ever want to experience stigmatization in their lifetime but why do we discriminate those with epilepsy among us? It's so surprising that this generation has the know how on handling and managing people with epilepsy but instead choose to neglect the aspect of them being discriminated in the society. Why not interact with them freely? Why make them feel meaningless? Why should we not include them in activities that others also engage in?

(courtesy of FPE)

   These are our brothers and sisters who are also important members in the society and we need not to discriminate them. Let us all come to our senses and do away with some of the barbaric cultural beliefs that promote stigmatization and accept those with epilepsy in the society. Everyone should be a campaigner against the myths and misconceptions about epilepsy and even create awareness on ways of managing such patients. The patients can also be referred to clinics and health facilities that offer such healthcare services for further treatment. 

(courtesy of FPE)

   For us to fight stigma we all need to play a role and not just leave it to those affected only for we all know that it takes two to tango.  Smiles can brighten even the toughest days. Let's spread positivity and support for those living with epilepsy. Together, we can make a difference. 

TRANSFORMING TIDES

   Have you ever wondered how it feels like when one is discriminated? Have you? Well someone can neither imagine nor wish for something like that, right? Yeah, I can bet no one would want that. Surprisingly the question still remains, why do we stigmatize people with epilepsy. Epilepsy is no curse. It is a brain disorder that causes people to have seizures, mark you, anyone with a brain can have seizures. 

(courtesy of FPE)

  Stigmatization should not even be a hot topic today if we claim we are of a new, know-it all generation. Why do we make people with epilepsy feel ashamed of themselves? Why make them feel unwanted? Why make them feel separate from the rest of the group at work? Why make them feel that the world is empty and meaningless? That is not humanity, that is brutality. 

(courtesy of FPE)

  We as human beings that do care about the wellfare of others ought to know and create awareness about stigmatizing people with epilepsy. We ought to help dispel the myths and misconceptions about epilepsy and encourage people to learn more about seizure first aid. There are also clinics that offer local assistance and support groups. 

  Individuals with epilepsy do not have to manage this on their own. Self-management programs address the psychological impact stigma can have on a person's self-esteem to help them improve their seizure control. 

(courtesy of FPE)

  Defeating stigmatization in the long term will require coordinated efforts of everyone with or without epilepsy. FIGHT STIGMA!! FIGHT STIGMA!! FIGHT STIGMA!! Remember We Say What We Mean and We Mean What We Say!!

ENDLESS MEMORIES.

       (Photo courtesy of Daniel Denah)

I vividly remember that day as if it was yesterday. That was the day I received my university admission letter and I was very happy. My dream of joining a university had come true. But being the year that Covid-19 had really hit the country, I had to undertake online classes. At first it worked but not all students could keep up with studies thus making it replaced by sending of notes.

    (Photo courtesy of Daniel Denah) 

Having resumed physical classes the following year, all was well though I struggled a little bit in settling in. I met a friend who we had been in the previous class before and we've helped push each other to their full potential. Well my studies were good and I had no problems in the first semester. 

I joined a local football club, trained to be a goalkeeper so as I could keep myself fit outside school and indeed that process helped me. Am really glad I took that initiative though am not training at the moment. I've met so many people with different perspectives of life, some have been useful others not but nonetheless I keep learning. 

(Photo courtesy of Daniel Denah) 

My attachment period was the best experience I've ever had. I got attached to Lulu FM, a radio station in Malindi whose main aim is to spread the gospel to all people. The station manager and  presenters really helped me a lot in sharpening my skills and am grateful for that opportunity. Right now I can confidently say am good to go even when am yet to finish my studies. All I can say is that glory be to God. 

Written by Daniel Denah. 

RESHAPING OUR FUTURE.

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In our country Kenya, the youth boast of a larger percentage in population hence that clearly shows that that is massive and good for our country. However many young people talents are rotting at homes because they do nothing constructive maybe due to lack of proper guidance but there's always room for improvement. The youth on the other hand should strive to make something constructive for themselves thus in such a way reducing the dependency rate.

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"How wonderful it is that nobody need wait a single moment before starting to improve the world." This is Anne Frank's quote from Anne Frank's Tales from the Secret Annex. Just as the quote says, there are many things the youth can do in order to revive our country's economy. First thing first, our youth should put self employment as a priority. They shouldn't wait for people to come and employ them. Why? Because we do learn so as to acquire some skills hence we should be creative enough when we go out there. When we get creative enough we can steer this country's economy forward. 

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Secondly people and organisations who grant job opportunities to the youth whether experienced or not show that the youth are the backbone of this country's economy. Am quite sure through supervision, the youth can really be outstanding in everything that they partake whether known or unknown to them. 

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Organisations and role models should also train our youth's leadership and critical thinking skills as this will be crucial in their decision making throughout their life. Why is this so? This is because a better youth does not only assure success for the existing generation, but also for the future ones. 

Let it be known that young people are a  tremendous resource for our country's economy, and to realise their full potential it is imperative that the right investments in their education, health, skills and empowerment are made. 

TIME FOR A GLOBAL REALITY CHECK

          (Photo: courtesy of Google)

Climate change is significantly impacting our planet, creating one of the most pressing issues of our time. Taking the steps needed to mitigate climate change is crucial. However, only by truly understanding the causes and effects of climate change can we start to make a difference to the planet. The evidence for climate change is all around us, and its effects have a significant impact on people, places, and wildlife.

So what's climate change? Climate change simply refers to changes in average weather patterns of a location( or the globe) and the related changes in ice sheets, land surfaces and oceans. Global warming. What is global warming? What is it all about? Does it contribute to climate change? These are some of the questions that do ring in people's minds today and yes! Yes is the answer. Global warming does contribute to climate change.

         (Photo: courtesy of Google) 

Global warming is simply the increase in the global average temperatures. Global warming occurs when carbon dioxide (CO2), greenhouse gases, and other air pollutants collect in the Earth’s atmosphere and absorb solar radiation and sunlight that have bounced off the planet’s surface. Usually, this radiation would escape into space. However, these pollutants, which can last for hundreds of years in the atmosphere, trap heat and cause the Earth’s temperature to increase. This is known as the greenhouse effect.

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Climate change does have its effects and one of them is severe droughts characterized by drastic water shortages and lack of food for mankind. Such effects if extreme can lead to death if the respective governments don't act upon it effectively. Another effect is that there could be an increased risk of wildfires. 

Rising sea levels could cause flooding hence destroying life and property. An influx of pests could threaten agriculture and fisheries hence bringing about food shortages all over the world. 

     (Photo: courtesy of Google) 

Infectious diseases, allergies and asthma cases could become common due to higher air pollution levels. 

       (Photo: courtesy of Google) 

However prevention is better than cure. So what are some of the solutions that we need to take to curb such effects. Some of the solutions include;

• Power your home with renewable energy
• Invest in energy-efficient appliances
• Aim to reduce water waste
• Eat the food you buy, reduce wastage, and eat less meat
• Purchase energy-saving light bulbs, rechargeable batteries, and use a home water filter
• Be conscious about the amount of gas and electricity you use/waste
• Drive a fuel-efficient or electric car
• Cycle, walk or use public transport more often

By implementing some or all of these changes, you can tilt the balance of climate change cause and effect.

TIME TO SHINE.

(Picture courtesy of Google) 

When he assumed office on 13th September 2022, H.E. The Fifth President of Kenya, William Samoei Ruto ordered that port operations be reverted back to Mombasa, a move that left many Kenyans with smiles on their faces especially the coastal residents. This was a move that was going to benefit Mombasa economically and coast region at large. But what are ports and how is the port of Mombasa going to be beneficial to the residents of Mombasa County? A port is basically a maritime facility comprising of one or more wharves or loading areas, where ships load and discharge cargo and passengers.

(Picture courtesy of Google) 

Ports will continue to play a central role in overcoming future challenges posed to world trade during this decade and beyond. Ports constitute a major part of the global transportation sector and have been integral to the success stories of economies worldwide for centuries. This has evolved with the rise of 'container hubs' acting as a crucial connection between sea and land. Our nation's Port, that is the port of Mombasa has been an important part of our national economy and intermodal transportation system. 

(picture courtesy of google) 

One of the benefits is that it contributes to the national economy and that of the county of the Mombasa. Kenya as a country earns revenue from the port operations and the county government of Mombasa happens to benefit from that and put the money into projects or rather improve infrastructure around Mombasa County hence lowering the need for the common mwananchi to pay more in form of tax. 

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With port operations back to Mombasa,  the move tends to create more employment opportunities for the residents of Mombasa thus enabling the unemployed people be able to cater for their needs and that of their families. 

(picture courtesy of Google) 

Through the employment that the Mombasa residents will benefit from, it will enable them to raise their living standards hence reducing the dependency rate that's very high in this coastal city. This will in turn reduce crime rate among the youth due to them being busy working. 

Another benefit is that it will promote the education sector. How? This will be through offering attachment and internship programmes to university and college students as well as the students under the Competence Based Curriculum. 

Mombasa port operations would also help in decongesting of the many containers that are at the port. This will be facilitated by the movement of trailers in and out of the port thus reducing delays vastly experienced at the port. 

All in all, the port of Mombasa will enable the Mombasa County Government to develop mutually beneficial relationships with landlocked countries because that's the main entry and exit point of most exports of those landlocked coutries. This brings about the smooth running of businesses. 

WHY US!

(picture courtesy of Google) 

Love. What's love? Love simply refers to an intense feeling of deep affection for something or someone. Relationships are born out of love. It's not bad, it's good. Everyone that exists in this world would want to have or be in a healthy relationship that would result in something good for example marriage. However the question in mind here is do the campus students really value these relationships or its just a way for them to get what they want. Are relationships beneficial to both parties nowadays more so campus students?

A large percentage of campus relationships nowadays have turned toxic. Toxic relationships are simply relationships where one is being emotionally and/or physically damaged by the other person. These type of relationships are imbalanced and unhealthy and mostly characterized by control and dominance. Anyone can be in a toxic relationships regardless of gender, race, sexuality or any other factor. Campus students should be cautious of whoever they want start a relationship with.

First thing first, students need to understand the signs of a toxic relationship for them to back off before one is harmed either physically or emotionally. One is that one party is constantly being criticised by the other person something that always chips away their self-esteem. This is because one party tends to feel superior than the other and in the end hurting the other party.

Secondly the relationship lacks trust. Why? Because one person is being cheated on but one cannot say anything because of the fear that they won't find anyone who would love them genuinely.

The other reason is that you may tend to feel insecure or unsafe around the person something that makes you feel trapped in the relationship. This brings the fact of one party feeling superior thank the other.

Another sign is that someone is made to do things that one does not want to do and this can go to the extent of one threatening you or physically harming you so that they can have their way at some things. Sometimes it can lead to death through suicide.

However the most crucial thing that campus students need to know is that they should become their brothers keeper. If you happen to know a person who is in a toxic relationship or is in need of help to exit a toxic relationship, please do help them for their own good and safety. All in all people should create awareness among campus students about these toxic relationships. Students should help each other escape toxic relationships. 

EPILEPSY IS NO CURSE

        EPILEPSY IS NO CURSE

It's evident in our modern life today that none of us would like to suffer from any disease at whatever cost that is if we as human beings had the power to control diseases. However that is a different story because from the soil we came and to the soil we shall return hence no one has the power to say that in no certain point will he or she not fall sick. In our topic today, we shall be looking at epilepsy in general and it's effects. The first thing that people should know is  that epilepsy is not a curse as many people believe thus it should be treated as any other disease. People should know more on epilepsy to erase the negativity in our societies. Epilepsy which is also known as seizure disorder is generally a brain disorder in which the nerve cell activity is disturbed thus causing seizures. Epilepsy may occur as a result of a genetic disorder or an acquired brain injury such as trauma or stroke.

There are several symptoms of epilepsy and they include the following; the person first experiences seizure either generalized seizures or focal seizures{ Generalized seizures affect both sides while focal seizures affect only one area of the brain.}. The second symptom is that the patient suffers from memory loss. The other symptom is that the patient has staring spells. Other symptoms include fainting or fatigue in the whole body, headache and rhythmic muscle contractions or muscle spasms. The doctor adds that sometimes people are not able to discover these symptoms quickly.

Doctors also stress that epilepsy as any other disease requires treatment and in this case medical diagnosis is required. Treatment is usually treated by medication and in some cases it requires surgery. Head scans can also be carried out to see how much the brain is damaged.

 Medication includes nerve pain medication that blocks pain caused by damaged nerves and sedative medication that causes drowsiness, calmness and dulled senses and some types of this medication may become addictive. Other medications include the anticonvulsants that tend to prevent or control seizures, treats symptoms of certain psychiatric disorders and also relieves pain.

Dr. Chengo who is an epileptologist says that, "If one suspects that he or she is having seizures, they should see a neurologist. A neurologist is a doctor with special training in disorders of the brain including epilepsy but in this case the doctor is called an epileptologist who is an expert in matters epilepsy."

During an examination and in order for the epileptologist to get a full picture of what really happened, doctors tend to ask about things that happened before and after as well as during the incident. Your family and friends can as well help in explaining what really happened. Parents are also questioned on the childhood of the person if the victim is a minor.

Before the spell doctors ask the following questions; Were you sick recently?, Did you take any kind of medication?, What were you doing immediately before the incident?

During the spell doctors ask; How did it begin?, Did any part of your body move abnormally?, Did you bite your tongue or the inside of your cheeks? Were you able to talk and respond appropriately?

After the spell doctors ask; could you speak normally? Do your muscles ache?Did you have a headache?

However people shouldn't be worried as there is an epileptical seizure first aid plan. The first step is that one should stay calm and remain with the person. If the victim happens to have food or fluid in their mouth, roll them onto their side immediately. Keep them safe and protect them from injury and place something soft under their head and loosen any tight clothing. The last step is that you must reassure the person until they recover.