Life changing: Mum hails Glasgow service behind daughter’s recovery
THE mum of a young girl with severe epilepsy has paid tribute to the world-renowned Glasgow treatment centre which changed her daughter’s life as it marks its fifth anniversary.
The William Quarrier Scottish Epilepsy Centre (WQSEC) is considered world-class in the assessment and diagnosis of the condition.
It is the only residential assessment and treatment centre in Scotland for adults with epilepsy, earning it national and international recognition.
Eleanor Ferguson described the “miraculous” transformation in her daughter Rachel’s condition after being treated at the centre.
Past and present patients gathered, alongside key figures from the centre and invited guests including Humza Yousaf MSP, to celebrate its success.
Eleanor spoke candidly at the anniversary event about the transformative effect the service had on her daughter.
When Rachel, who was born with a learning disability, was admitted she had very limited mobility but following close observation, specialists at the WQSEC recommended introducing a new medication and significantly reducing another drug which her mother said has had “miraculous” results.
She said: “She is now walking upright, her face is alert and animated again and the drooling and tremor in her arm has stopped.
“People who know Rachel can’t believe the difference.
“She has far fewer seizures, and is now much more active and has built up her strength.
“She has more energy and is able to enjoy being out in the evenings again.
“She can even walk up to two-and-a-half miles with support, and enjoys swimming and trampolining.
“Above all, she is able to enjoy her life again.
“The improvement in Rachel’s condition is miraculous.”
Around 63,400, or one in 220 people under 18 in Scotland, suffer from epilepsy, with 154,000 one in 67 affected over the age of 65.
Professor Ian Bone, a
world-renowned former neurologist, told the Evening Times: “We simply cannot underestimate the clinical significance of the William Quarrier Scottish Epilepsy Centre.
“To have such a valuable resource on our doorstep that is a beacon of excellence for the world-wide epilepsy community is a clear demonstration of how the third sector and NHS can work together to provide
‘‘ Above all, she is able to enjoy her life again
outstanding patient care and outcomes.”
Gerard Gahagan, head of service, added: “The epilepsy that our patients live with is the most complex to treat or diagnose and their condition is often accompanied by significant other condition and additional support issues, including learning disabilities.
“It is vital that Scotland has a service that is dedicated to this.”